About Restoration
The History of Halnaker Hill Farm
The land at Halnaker Hill Farm has a rich history that spans thousands of years, with traces of farming activity dating back to the Neolithic period.
The remains of Stane Street, an ancient Roman road linking Chichester to London, can be found here. This historic pathway leads to the restored Halnaker Windmill, originally constructed in the 1740s, which stands inside a neolithic enclosure dating back to between 3700 and 3500 BC.
The land has evolved significantly over the years, having been part of the Goodwood Estate until 1947 before transitioning to the Stride family and the Langmead family in the late 1950s. Initially a mixed farm with dairy, beef cattle, and arable crops, it has shifted to a focus on continuous wheat farming since the 1970s.
This approach, characterized by intensive use of fertilizers and pesticides, aimed to maximize yields despite the land’s relatively poor quality classified as Grade 3 and Grade 4.
Mapping the past to restore the future
Inspired by historical maps dating back to 1700's and previous centuries, the farm aims to revive the diverse landscapes that characterised Halnaker Hill Farm.
The Yeakell & Gardener Map from 1795 indicates how the land used to be farmed before intensive strategies took over. This way of farming worked alongside nature and was more sustainable for the environment.
The farm aims to restore some of the historical elements shown on the map including replanting numerous hedgerows and woodland. This will contribute to the wider government and local South Downs National Park target of ReNaturing 30% of the South Downs by 2030.
Who are we
The core of our farm
Halanker Hill Farm is also important to the community, we are lucky enough to have the beautiful Halnaker Windmill, built in the 1740’s, on our farm which sits inside a neolithic encampment. The view from the windmill is stunning, looking out along the coast on a clear day you can see the Isle of Wight.
