Every September, the Soil Association’s Organic September campaign shines a light on organic food and farming, encouraging us to discover the difference that organic can make – to nature, wildlife, animal welfare, our soils and the food we eat.

This year, the campaign is encouraging shoppers to discover how choosing organic can support a farming system that works with nature. At Matson Ground, organic farming is much more than a choice – it’s a long-term commitment to the land, our livestock and the wider landscape.

Organic farming has been at the heart of what we do since 2000. So, this Organic September, we thought we would share a little more about why organic matters to us, how we look after this special landscape, and some of the ways our farming and conservation work continue to evolve.

Why Organic?

What does organic actually mean?

Simply put, organic farming is about working with nature rather than against it. Organic standards restrict the use of synthetic pesticides and artificial fertilisers, while placing a strong emphasis on soil health, biodiversity, animal welfare and natural farming systems.

For us, that means looking at the farm as a whole. Healthy soils support healthy grass and plants; diverse habitats support insects, birds and other wildlife; and well-managed pasture provides food for our livestock.

What We Do on the Farm?

Matson Ground has been farmed organically since 2000, and today we care for around 500 hectares of farmland and woodland around Windermere. The farm is an upland, pasture-based system, with livestock grazing outdoors all year round where possible.

Parts of our farm are classified as Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), which means they’re areas protected for their unique habitats and wildlife.

Here’s how we care for the land, animals and wildlife on our farm:

Encouraging Wildlife

We’re lucky to share the farm with an incredible variety of wildlife, from wildflowers and butterflies to birds and amphibians.

Our conservation work includes creating and enhancing wetland areas, supporting habitats for species such as curlews and high brown fritillary butterflies, and developing new wood pasture. These projects are designed to increase biodiversity while continuing to manage the land as a working farm.

Sustainable Practices

We don’t use harmful chemicals on our land, so the biodiversity here can flourish. Our focus is on creating a natural balance, which is why we prioritise using organic materials and sustainable methods in everything we do.

Grazing with native breeds

Our cattle are well suited to the upland landscape. We currently have Belted Galloways and Blue Greys – a cross between a Black Galloway cow and a White Shorthorn bull.

These hardy, slow-growing cattle are particularly well suited to grazing our pastures and play a role in managing the landscape as well as producing organic beef. Keeping stocking levels appropriate for the land allows livestock and wildlife to thrive alongside one another.

Supporting Pollinators

Bees and other pollinators are vital to healthy ecosystems, and we make sure our farm is a haven for them. By allowing wildflowers to grow freely and avoiding the use of pesticides, we give these essential insects the space they need to thrive.

Organic Food for the Community

Our commitment to organic food isn’t limited to beef and lamb.

In 2025, Matson Ground became home to Windermere Food Farm, a community project growing fresh organic vegetables for the local food bank and families in need.

It’s a lovely extension of our organic journey: bringing vegetables, as well as livestock, into the story and creating an opportunity for local people to learn more about growing, harvesting and cooking organic food. Volunteers, schools and community groups are able to get involved too.

For us, it’s a great example of how caring for the land can also help support the wider community.

Enjoying Organic September on the Farm

During your stay with us, we hope you’ll take a moment to appreciate the natural beauty that organic farming helps preserve. Whether you’re wandering through the wildflower meadows, spotting birds in the SSSI areas, or simply enjoying a peaceful stroll through this special corner of Lake District countryside, you’re experiencing the benefits of organic stewardship first-hand.

To visit another organic farm near Matson Ground, we always recommend a trip to Low Sizergh Barn, a dairy farm with Farm Shop, just outside Kendal. Perfect for a hearty breakfast or cake, all made freshly in their café. And you can watch the cows being milked daily at 3.30pm from the café viewing gallery.

We’re proud to be part of this movement and to share it with our guests. So, while you’re here, take a deep breath of fresh country air, marvel at the wild beauty around you and know that together, we’re supporting a healthier, more sustainable future.