The Willow Farm

In 1966, John Roberts bought Bussex Farm from Mr and Mrs Bawden. They showed great trust by offering him a 100% personal mortgage, which allowed him to start a small milking herd with just seven Friesian cows. Over the next three decades, that herd grew to ninety-five, setting the foundations for how we still farm today, through hard work, family effort, and respect for the land.

Sunrise over a misty rural landscape with a tree and path.

Changing Seasons


As the years passed, the Somerset Levels became wetter and the climate gradually shifted. Dairy farming grew more challenging, so we adapted and moved into beef production. The land responded well, and Bussex Farm found a new rhythm, one that worked with the environment rather than against it.

Wetland willow bed with water channels and bare trees under a blue sky

Growing the Land


Since those early days, we’ve added to the original fifty acres, and now farm around 175 acres. Most of the land is down to grass and forage crops, supporting both livestock and soil health. The same family hands still manage the work, maintaining the practical, hands-on approach that has defined the farm for nearly sixty years.

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Brown cow with a yellow tag in its ear, standing next to hay in a barn.
Brown cow with a white calf standing in a grassy field.
Dog sitting in a field with cows under a blue sky

Today and Tomorrow

Today, around 125 acres support our herd of pedigree Beef Shorthorn cows. We produce breeding bulls and heifers, sell boxed beef directly from the farm, and supply finished cattle to Morrisons for their premium Shorthorn range.

The remaining fifty acres are now planted with willow, grown for Somerset Willow Growers. The Somerset Levels’ fertile peat soil and natural water balance make ideal conditions for both cattle and willow, helping the farm stay productive and sustainable all year round.