Discover grass-fed lamb production, working sheepdogs, horses and rural traditions at Shanaghan Hill Farm
Veterinary surgeon and farmer Esther Skelly-Smith, alongside her husband Timothy, will welcome visitors to Shanaghan Hill Farm in Katesbridge, County Down, as part of Bank of Ireland Open Farm Weekend 2026.
The family-run farm will open its gates to give visitors a unique opportunity to experience life on a working sheep farm, learn how food is produced, meet the animals, and enjoy a wide range of demonstrations celebrating farming, food and rural heritage.
As both a practising veterinary surgeon and livestock farmer, Esther brings a unique perspective to animal health, welfare and sustainable food production.
“Open Farm Weekend is a fantastic opportunity to connect people with farming,” says Esther. “Many people are increasingly interested in where their food comes from, how animals are cared for and how farms operate. We want visitors to be able to see this first-hand and ask as many questions as they like.”
A Farm Built on Grass
Shanaghan Hill Farm operates a 100% grass-fed sheep enterprise, with lambs raised entirely on grass and forage throughout their lives.
The flock grazes clover-rich pastures during the growing season, making use of Northern Ireland’s natural ability to grow high-quality grass.
“We are fortunate to farm in a part of the world that is exceptionally well suited to growing grass,” explains Esther. “Grass is our greatest natural resource. Our sheep are raised in a system that works with the environment, making the most of our climate while producing high-quality lamb.”
Visitors will learn how pasture management, animal health, welfare and responsible stewardship all contribute to sustainable food production.
Sheepdogs, Horses and Rural Skills
The weekend will feature a wide range of activities and demonstrations for all ages.
Visitors can enjoy a sheepdog demonstration with Kim, the farm’s working sheepdog, tractor and trailer tours around the farm, sheep shearing demonstrations, wool spinning with Closkelt Yarns, traditional horseshoeing demonstrations by Martin Payne Farrier, and horse carriage displays from L&M Carriage Services.
The farm’s horses will also be part of the visitor experience, providing an opportunity to learn about their role in rural life and equestrian traditions.
“Farming is about much more than producing food,” says Esther. “There is a rich heritage, a wide range of skills and a strong connection between animals, people and the countryside. Open Farm Weekend gives us the opportunity to share that with visitors.”
From Farm to Fork
A highlight of the weekend will be a live cookery demonstration supported by the Livestock and Meat Commission (LMC), showcasing how locally produced lamb can be prepared and enjoyed.
Visitors will be able to follow the journey from pasture to plate, learning how food is produced before having the opportunity to purchase locally produced products from the Shanaghan Hill Farm Pop-Up Farm Shop.
Local food and drink producers including Ballydown Milk, Loughbrew and Simply Irresistible Catering will also be on site throughout the weekend.
Building Understanding Between Farmers and Consumers
For Esther and Tim, Open Farm Weekend is about creating meaningful connections between farmers and the public.
“Most people are genuinely interested in how food is produced, but many have little opportunity to visit a working farm,” says Esther. “We hope visitors leave with a better understanding of farming, animal welfare and the important role agriculture plays in producing food while caring for the countryside.”
To plan your day out at Shanaghan Hill Farm head over to their farm page for all the information you need.
