A farm of our own
Leckford Farm is a working farm producing arable crops including high quality bread-making wheat which is used to make a range of Leckford label flour. The farm also supplies milk, apples, pears, apple juice, cider, free range eggs and mushrooms as well as free range Le Poulet d'Or chickens to Waitrose branches. On seeing this modern and professional food business in action, there is an immediate sense of Waitrose's commitment to forward thinking.
Good practice from farm to store
At Leckford, we embody the Waitrose principles of good food, good environmental practice and fair behaviour in all our transactions. At all stages we ensure responsible and sustainable agriculture and animal husbandry. We also recognise the daily challenges that farmers face in producing wholesome, affordable food as well as managing a viable farming business.
Sharing our knowledge
Today visitors from all over the world come to Leckford to share in John Spedan Lewis's original vision for farming in harmony with the environment, as well as to share in the values that Waitrose continues to hold true in its everyday expertise in food. We share information and promote best practice with other suppliers, food experts, students and buyers through a regular programme of events.
Traceability of our foods
At Waitrose, our reputation rests on the traceability of the finest foods. This requires strong relationships throughout the food supply chain built on respect, trust and a mutual commitment to the highest standards. Having our own 4,000-acre farm means Waitrose practises what it preaches. Leckford Estate is all about innovative practices and new products, a holistic approach, choice and quality, and respect for the environment. But, above all, it's about delivering customers the very finest food from known sources.
Visiting Leckford Farm
Leckford is primarily a working farm so we hold an annual festival in May or June when the estate is open to the public. The estate is open for three days when there are a wide variety of events ranging from cookery demonstrations to farm, nursery and arboretum tours, plus the opportunity to meet Waitrose suppliers and try their produce and special events for children. For more details of the annual festival and how to obtain tickets visit www.waitrose.com/events.aspx.
Visiting Leckford Farm Shop
The Leckford Estate farm shop sells apples, apple juice, mushrooms, eggs and honey. It is open between mid August and mid March from 9am-5pm Monday to Friday and from 2-4.30pm on Sundays. For more information call 01264 810585.