Smallholding, rural Northern Ireland

We are a permaculture smallholding in rural Northern Ireland. Nature is the boss and we try and let her dictate what we do. So we are not after neatly manicured lawns, but a…

We are a permaculture smallholding in rural Northern Ireland. Nature is the boss and we try and let her dictate what we do. So we are not after neatly manicured lawns, but a managed wilderness and edible landscape. Sometimes the jungle needs taming a bit for access, and we do that by hand, being mindful of the many edible wild plants that also share our place. During summer the berry glut needs harvesting and processing. Sometimes things need fixing (the duck shed at the moment). We also share the space with a flock of chickens, a couple of ducks and a very enthusiastic collie. So their sheds sometimes need cleaning and the dog needs walks. We are very laid back and relaxed, we don't like starting too early and you'll have plenty of time to explore the beautiful surrounds on one of our bicycles.

Work varies according to season, but it's about keeping a light touch. Sometimes unexpected jobs occur, like clearing up after a storm. Chopping back weeds for access, harve…

Work varies according to season, but it's about keeping a light touch. Sometimes unexpected jobs occur, like clearing up after a storm. Chopping back weeds for access, harvesting and processing berries and perennial vegetables, including foraging for wild foods, some repair jobs are some of the things that are required. Essentially we are looking for flexible people, who don't mind getting their hands dirty and have good observation skills to find their own niches within our eco-system. The chickens and ducks need their sheds cleaned every now and then and the dog needs walking. We also are in the process of building an eco-village nearby on 10 acres of land. We have already planted 2000 trees and a food forest. This needs continued maintenance.