SHEEP

Exford’s sheep showing brings together the two main local breeds – Devon Closewool and Exmoor Horn as well as a hybrid, the Exmoor Mule. Come and see the fine examples of these sheep and chat with the farmers and breeders.

DEVON CLOSE WOOL

The breed arose around the mid-1800’s when Exmoor Horn sheep were crossed with the Devon Longwools and has been raised primarily for the quality of its meat. The resultant intermediate-sized sheep proved very popular and expanded rapidly in numbers. By 1950 there were around 229,000 Closewools, almost all of them located in Devon making them the most numerous breed in the county at that time. The Devon Closewool Sheep Breeders Society was formed in 1923. The meat is sweet and beautifully marbled as a native breed
should be.

To visit the Devon Close Wool website, click here

EXMOOR HORN

The Exmoor Horn Sheep originates from the high hills of Exmoor National Park, one of England’s most beautiful and remote landscapes. For all of its beauty, Exmoor’s climate requires hardy sheep that can withstand harsh winters, and thrive off sparse upland hill pasture. Over many generations the Exmoor Horn has adapted itself perfectly to this environment and is a very effective grazer for sensitive landscapes like Exmoor, whilst thriving and finishing fast when brought to lusher lowland pastures. By grazing these distinctive upland pastures, the Exmoor Horn Sheep produces lamb of outstanding flavour and texture. The breed is also famous for its mutton, considered the finest mutton available by the London restaurant trade in the 1800s.

Exmoor Horn Sheep have been on Exmoor since time immemorial and have always been valued for their hardiness, ability to thrive, and quality of fleece and meat.

To visit the Exmoor Horn website, click here