About Us

The Metcalfe family has farmed Usha Gap Farm for more than a century and boasts an enduring presence in the dales spanning several generations. Their agricultural focus is primarily on Swaledale sheep and beef cattle, with the campsite established at approximately the same time, originally located in the field across the road.

Conservation and Stewardship at Usha Gap Farm

Preserving the Swaledale Countryside Hill farmers Philip Metcalfe and his son James have made substantial contributions to conserving the landscape surrounding their Swaledale residence. Their commitment to environmental stewardship is demonstrated through continuous initiatives aimed at maintaining and improving the local ecology.

Farming on Sites of Special Scientific Interest

The Metcalfe family manages 280 hectares at Usha Gap, near Muker, which encompasses some of the most scenic terrain in the Yorkshire Dales. In addition to their own property, they maintain grazing rights for their flock on the moor tops at Muker and Ivelet, both designated as Sites of Special Scientific Interest.

A Tradition of Farming

With deep-rooted traditions in Swaledale agriculture, the Metcalfe’s have specialised in purebred Swaledale sheep for generations. Philip’s grandfather settled at Usha Gap in the 1930s, paving the way for expansion into a herd of Limousin Cross suckler cattle for beef production. The family also operates a campsite and holiday accommodation, contributing positively to the local economy and community.

Environmental Improvements and Traditional Practices

Through the sustained efforts of Philip, James and Philips late father Tom, extensive stretches of drystone walls have been restored, and numerous barns have been preserved from potential disrepair. Their conscientious management ensures that significant meadows remain well-maintained.

Supporting Conservation through the ESA Scheme

The family further reinforced their conservation commitments by participating in the Government’s Environmentally Sensitive Areas (ESA) Scheme, an agri-environmental initiative designed to promote and safeguard natural landscapes. The Pennine Dales ESA, inaugurated in 1987, was among the first of its kind; Tom enrolled at the earliest opportunity. The scheme encourages agricultural practices that enhance areas of notable landscape, wildlife, or historical value.

Choosing Conservation over Intensification

Philip, aged 52, indicated that joining the ESA was a straightforward choice. Recognising that hill farms typically yield lower productivity due to land quality, the family remained dedicated to traditional farming methods. Opting against intensification—which would require field spraying and heavy use of nitrogen fertilisers—preserved the integrity of their hay meadows. They understood that such intensive processes would result in irreversible changes to the land’s original character.