Top 10 Best Farming Companies in Folkestone and Hythe

Introduction: The Best Farming Companies in Folkestone and Hythe

Farming is woven into the fabric of Folkestone and Hythe. Romney Marsh has been grazed by sheep for centuries, the Elham Valley supports mixed farming, and the wider Kent countryside is renowned for fruit, hops and, increasingly, world-class English wine.

This guide highlights ten farming companies in and around the district that showcase the diversity and innovation of Kent agriculture.

Agriculture in the District

Romney Marsh's flat, fertile land supports sheep grazing and arable crops. The Romney sheep breed originated here and is known worldwide. Kent's chalky soils and mild climate have made it a hotspot for vineyards.

Farmers face challenges including climate change, labour availability and market volatility, but innovation in technology and diversification is creating new opportunities.

The Top 10 Farming Companies Around Folkestone and Hythe

1. Gusbourne

Based at Appledore on the edge of Romney Marsh, Gusbourne produces award-winning English sparkling wines from its own vineyards. Its vineyards benefit from the warm, sheltered slopes near the marsh, and its wines are regularly praised in international competitions.

2. Simpsons' Wine Estate

Located in the Elham Valley near Canterbury, Simpsons' Wine Estate produces acclaimed still and sparkling wines. Its estate welcomes visitors for tours and tastings, bringing wine tourism close to Folkestone.

3. Chapel Down

Chapel Down in Tenterden is one of England's leading wine producers, with vineyards across Kent. It has played a major part in raising the profile of English wine and runs a popular visitor centre.

4. Romney Marsh Wools

Romney Marsh Wools produces wool products from sheep raised on the marsh, celebrating the heritage of the Romney breed. Its products are a proud expression of the district's farming heritage and are valued by knitters and crafters.

5. AC Goatham and Son

AC Goatham and Son is one of the UK's largest apple and pear growers, with orchards across Kent. It supplies major supermarkets and has invested in modern packing and storage facilities.

6. Hugh Lowe Farms

Hugh Lowe Farms grows strawberries and other berries in Kent, supplying major retailers. Its growing techniques extend the British berry season and support many seasonal jobs.

7. Thanet Earth

Thanet Earth is one of the UK's largest greenhouse complexes, producing tomatoes, peppers and cucumbers. Its advanced growing systems use technology to optimise light, heat and water use.

8. Chegworth Valley

Chegworth Valley grows fruit and produces pressed juices in Kent. Its juices are popular in delicatessens, farm shops and restaurants across the South East.

9. Biddenden Vineyards

Biddenden Vineyards is one of Kent's oldest commercial vineyards, also producing cider. Its long history makes it a pioneer of the modern Kent wine industry.

10. Brogdale Collections

Brogdale near Faversham is home to the National Fruit Collection, preserving thousands of fruit varieties. It welcomes visitors to learn about fruit heritage and supports research into fruit growing.

Trends in Kent Farming

Viticulture is booming, with Kent vineyards winning international awards. Regenerative farming, precision agriculture and diversification into tourism are also growing.

Water management is critical on Romney Marsh, where drainage and flood risk shape farming practices.

Supporting Local Farming

Buying local produce, visiting farm shops and vineyards and choosing seasonal food all help support farmers in the district.

Businesses can partner with local farms to source ingredients and showcase provenance.

The Legacy of the Romney Sheep

Romney Marsh gave its name to one of the world's most successful sheep breeds. The Romney is hardy, resistant to foot problems in wet conditions and produces long, lustrous wool. The breed was exported to many countries, particularly New Zealand, where it became a foundation of the national flock. Today, sheep still graze the marsh's ditches and pastures, maintaining the distinctive landscape and supporting local lamb and wool production.

Farm Diversification and Tourism

Many farms in and around the district have diversified into farm shops, holiday accommodation, events and vineyard tours. These ventures provide valuable additional income, help farmers withstand market fluctuations and give visitors a genuine taste of rural Kent life. For Folkestone and Hythe, this blend of agriculture and tourism strengthens the local economy and celebrates the area's heritage.

Technology on the Farm

Kent farmers are embracing technology to improve efficiency and protect the environment. Satellite-guided tractors reduce overlaps and fuel use, drones monitor crop health, soil sensors inform irrigation, and data platforms help growers track yields and costs. In glasshouses, climate control systems carefully manage light and temperature to grow produce year-round. These innovations are helping farms around Folkestone and Hythe remain competitive while reducing their impact on sensitive habitats such as the wetlands of Romney Marsh.

Skills and labour remain important challenges, particularly for fruit picking and vineyard work. Investment in automation, training and good working conditions is helping the sector attract and retain the people it needs.

Final Thoughts

Farming around Folkestone and Hythe blends heritage and innovation. These ten farming companies showcase the best of Kent agriculture, from marsh wool to world-class wine.