Our history
Marston Lodge boasts a rich and fascinating history. Indentations in the hillside from a stockade evidence the border between two early Iron Age Celtic Tribes, the Corieltauvi and the Catuvellauni.
Moot Hill, the highest point on the farm with uninterrupted views of the Welland Valley, was once the meeting place of local people in Medieval Britain to settle business, read proclamations and determine court cases. The earthen fortifications and ramparts of a Motte and Bailey built soon after the Norman invasion of 1066 remain to this day within the woodland.
On the eve of the Battle of Naseby (14 June 1645) the Royalist forces led by King Charles I camped on the grounds of Marston Lodge on a field now called King’s Close. The next day the Royalist forces marched to Naseby where they suffered from a decisive defeat by the Parliamentarians, returning to retreat down the steep coombes of Marston Lodge.
Our values
Marston Lodge has a traditional mix of farming and forestry operating alongside unique events.
Everyone working at Marston Lodge enjoys being a part of this bustling community. We all believe in caring for the land and wildlife and conserving this beautiful place for future generations to enjoy. It is a great community in which to live, work and play.
Crops & livestock
All commercial farming decisions are considered alongside our conservation work. Through our involvement in the Countryside Stewardship Scheme, we have set aside land for wild Zowers, birds, bees and wildlife. We are also restoring our historic hedgerows through hedge laying and new planting, using skilled local craftsmen.
Arable: we work closely with our arable contractors who are based locally and bring a great depth of skill and experience to growing cereal crops. We promote soil health by increasing organic matter, reducing compaction and introducing green catch crops.
Livestock: the grazing of our grassland is let to a family of local cattle and sheep farmers. They work in a traditional way, maintaining low stocking densities and mixed grazing. They are caring and committed to producing a very high-quality product.
On three occasions they have been placed second in the National Fencing Championships so we know the fencing at Marston Lodge is some of the best in the country!
Woodland management
The woodland is a vital part of Marston Lodge’s character and is located in the middle of the farm. Our arboriculturalist, manages our forestry team which comes together every winter to implement our 20-year Woodland Plan.
This is designed to enhance the woodland and implement a long-term vision to improve it for future generations.
The focus of our woodland management is thinning, coppicing, and felling previously neglected areas of conifers and restocking with native British broadleaf trees. Over the last eight years, we have planted more than 10,000 trees.
MARSTON LODGE FARM PARTNERSHIP
Marston Lodge
Clipston Road
Marston Trussell
Market Harborough
Leicestershire
LE16 9TT
+44 (0)7802 388 880
info@marstonlodge.com
