Secret Valley

Cobbs Cross Farm

This fertile farm sits high in the Quantock Hills; an impressive ridge of sandstone and limestone deservedly protected as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The hillscut through West Somerset, rising from the Vale of Taunton and the Somerset Levels to end crashing into the Bristol Channel just east of Watchet Harbour. The Quantocks face Exmoor to the west, with the River Parrett to the east, famous for its 30 foot tidal range and twice daily bore. The Somerset coastline that the Quantocks reach is a spectacular section of coast, with the beaches (some sandy, some rocky) of Burnham, Weston-super-Mare and Minehead and Lynmouthand Kilve all within easy reach.

Set in the southernmost foothills of this Area of Special Scientific Interest, Cobbs Cross Farm is very much a working farm in a rich and sensitive geography. Farming remains the family's bread and butter, and the load placed on the farm's delicate ecosystem by holidaymakers and visitors to Secret Valley is kept to a minimum by keeping numbers low and by ensuring that development is gradual and gentle. The leisure facilities and activities are intentionally as un-invasive as possible.

Cobbs Cross has been farmed by the Hardwick family since 1983. The three children, Rob, Emma and Will were all born on the farm to Farmer John and his wife Jan. Having enjoyed their own happy, healthy upbringing on the farm, the children all love sharing their knowledge and fun-loving experiences with visiting children so they too can get the most possible out of their visit to Secret Valley.

In 2000, the 400 acre mixed farm became totally organic and Farmer John now rears free range chickens as well as a 180 strong beef suckler herd. You'll see both enjoying their freedom and the lush grass. Visitors can also see a small reindeer herd and South American rheas. The farm's main crop is organic potatoes but Farmer John turns his hand to many things; 60 acres are turned over to Christmas tree plantations (www.farmerjohns.net), and two vineyards were also planted in recent years. Secret Valley Wine is produced locally in Somerset, with red, white and rosé wines all available for tasting and taking home from our Wine Shop.