The farm was the first organic farm in Northern Ireland to open a farm shop outlet. It was officially opened by H.R.H. the Prince of Wales on the 5th May 1999. The shop stocks a wide range of foods - everything from meat, fruit and vegetables and an extensive range of dairy products. Ballylagan Organic Farm is a unique traditional mixed farm selling home grown and organically reared beef, pork, bacon, lamb and poultry as well as free range eggs. Quality animals are reared from breeding stock born on the farm and include;• Aberdeen Angus cattle• Pedigree Tamworth and saddleback pigs• Welsh black sheep• The poultry flock includes a small number of Welsomer and Aracaunas, the latter of which lay green eggs!• The table birds are either Ross Cobs, not the most beautiful birds in the world to behold, nevertheless, when properly reared of excellent eating quality, or Dorking and Maran crosses. These are much older breeds, pleasing to the eye while alive and a delight to eat. A wide selection of fruit and vegetables are also grownThe farm is worked by Tom and Patricia using traditional farming techniques which Tom describes is about “producing food the way nature intended”. At any one time however you may find young people from any part of the world helping out as Tom and Patricia provide opportunities for young people through the World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms (WWOOF) network. This international network is focused upon helping people share more sustainable ways of living. In return for volunteer help, Ballylagan Organic Farm offers food, accommodation and opportunities to learn about organic lifestyles.Quality and sustainability are important at Ballylagan Organic Farm. Plans are underway to install a hydroelectric water turbine which will generate all the electricity needed and he also has plans to grow his own fire wood.Product availability Direct from Ballylagan farm Shop in Straid
