Welcome to Meonside Farm
Proudly farmed by the Atkinson family
Since 1906
At the source of the River Meon
We are a sustainable mixed-use farm
In the heart of the South Downs
Enjoy exploring our website
The Atkinsons farm at the source of the River Meon with conservation and sustainability at the heart of everything they do, producing high welfare, grass-fed lambs and beef cattle.
Come and enjoy camping by the river, explore the Beaver Reintroduction Project, embark on Farm Safaris, visit the Pantry or rent self storage in the heart of the South Downs.
Our Story
In 1906, George and Mary Atkinson moved from a small 40-acre farm near Keswick in the Lake District to Hampshire with their family of two boys and five girls. They were among nine farming families who migrated from Cumberland to Hampshire between 1892 and 1925. Initially renting from John Bonham Carter, George bought the farm in 1953. The Atkinson family has farmed this land ever since, with William and Oliver representing the fifth generation to continue the tradition (read this by George Atkinson to learn more.)
The Atkinson family in 1910, left to right back: Hilda, Nellie, George, Ethel, Mary. Front: George, Millie, Joseph, & Elizabeth
The Atkinson family in 2003, left to right: Wilson, Jill, George, Elizabeth, James, William & Oliver
The Atkinson family in 2024, left to right: Back: Oliver, Isabella, Elizabeth, George, Lily, Will, Elsie and James. Front: Hannah, Hannah and Ottilie.
Our Farm Today
William and Oliver, 5th generation farmers, now run the farm with their parents George and Elizabeth. The farm remains a traditional mixed farm with cattle, sheep and arable crops. The farm has developed in recent times to include many diversifications, such as camping, farm tours, commercial lets, beavers, retail and much more!
The entire farm is within a governmental environment agreement to promote and manage precious wildlife habitats and farm food using regenerative, sustainable methods.
Checkout the video below, where William explains some of the activities on the farm and some beautiful footage of the glorious landscape we are lucky enough to call home.
