Conservation at Little Barrington
Protecting native wildlife and promoting a rich, diverse landscape
The Little Barrington Estate is managed with long-term environmental stewardship at its heart. Most of the land is enrolled in the Countryside Stewardship Higher Tier Scheme, a government programme that encourages landowners to enhance habitats, support biodiversity, and protect the unique character of the countryside.
Through this commitment, we work to preserve the Cotswold landscape while creating thriving spaces for native wildlife, from wild birds and pollinators to the diverse species that rely on our hedgerows and woodlands. At the same time, we promote sustainable farming practices that benefit both the environment and productive agriculture.
Countryside Stewardship in Practice
Creating habitats and food sources to support birds, pollinators, and wildlife year-round
Across the estate, more than 85 acres of winter cover crops are planted, including 42 hectares of wild bird food supported by beetle banks, lapwing plots, grass margins, enhanced field corners, and floristically rich mixes. These measures provide essential habitats and feeding grounds for birds and pollinators throughout the year.
Key parts of our conservation work include spreading wild bird seed along tracks, maintaining strategically placed feeders, and leaving unharvested crop strips to offer food and shelter for overwintering species.
The industries that shaped the landscape and character of Little Barrington leave a legacy still visible today.
Barrington Stone
Stone from Barrington was once transported down the Windrush and Thames to London for repairs to Westminster Abbey. Local mason Thomas Strong, regarded by Sir Christopher Wren as one of England’s finest, laid the foundation stone for St. Paul’s Cathedral. Strong also funded a lane connecting two bridges across the Windrush, known today as Strong’s Causeway, which still links Little Barrington and Great Barrington.
Barrington Paper Mill
Barrington Mill, built in 1794 was a water-powered mill that once formed part of the extensive paper industry in the area. The mill was closed in 1846 but there is still evidence of the industrial past in the surviving mill building and riverbank. The main mill building and surrounding cottages have now been converted into residential cottages and are privately rented.
