Sheepdogs and Sustainability: Shanaghan Hill Farm Opens Its Gates for Bank of Ireland Open Farm Weekend 2026

Veterinary surgeon, Esther Skelly-Smith MRCVS and her husband Tim, will welcome visitors to Shanaghan Hill Farm this June for a lively, hands-on Open Farm Weekend experience that blends expert insight into 100% grass-fed lamb production with plenty of fun for all ages. 

As part of Bank of Ireland Open Farm Weekend 2026, the Katesbridge farm in County Down will open its gates for a weekend of farm tours, animal encounters and outdoor activities – On Shanaghan Hill Farm Esther brings together her veterinary expertise with day-to-day farming experience. 

“We love showing people how the farm actually works,” says Esther. “There’s serious science behind it, but it’s also a great day out. Farming should be understood - but it should also be enjoyed.” 

A working grass-fed farm, open to explore 

Tim and Esther run a fully grass-based sheep system, with lambs raised entirely on grass and forage for their whole lives. Animals graze clover-rich pasture in season and are fed conserved forage such as silage and haylage over winter. 

“We don’t use cereal-based finishing systems,” explains Esther. “The lambs grow naturally and seasonally, in line with how grazing animals are meant to live.” 

Sheepdogs, tractor rides and plenty to see 

Alongside guided farm walks and informal talks, visitors can enjoy a full programme of farm experiences - including live sheepdog demonstrations with Kim the farm’s working sheepdog, tractor rides across the Katesbridge countryside, and the chance to meet sheep, lambs and horses up close. 

“It’s a working farm, but it’s a really welcoming place,” says Esther. “We want people to get involved, ask questions, and have a bit of fun while they’re here.” 

Why grass-fed farming matters 

At Shanaghan Hill Farm, the sheep spend their lives grazing on grass and clover-rich pastures, with hay and silage used during the winter months. 

For Esther and Tim, farming this way makes the most of Northern Ireland's natural environment. 

"We have a climate that's perfect for growing grass," says Esther. "Our sheep can spend much of the year outdoors grazing, which is what they're naturally designed to do." 

Grass-fed farming can support animal welfare by allowing sheep to roam, graze and behave naturally. Well-managed grassland can also benefit wildlife and help protect the health of the soil. 

"It's about working with nature as much as possible," Esther explains. "We care deeply about the welfare of our animals and the land we farm, and we're always happy to explain why we do things the way we do." 

Visitors to the Bank of Ireland Open Farm Weekend will have the chance to learn more about how the system works and why it matters. 

Farming, explained simply 

As both vet and farmer, Esther sees the system from every angle. 

“Good farming is constant observation and care,” she says. “There’s a lot more going on behind the scenes than people realise.” She hopes the weekend helps bridge that gap. 

“Most people are genuinely curious about how food is produced - this is a chance to see it up close and ask anything you like.” 

A day out with purpose 

Beyond the activities and demonstrations, the event is designed to be relaxed, open and enjoyable - giving visitors a real feel for life on a working farm. 

“We want people to leave having learned something, but also having had a great day out,” says Esther. 

At its heart, Shanaghan Hill Farm is focused on stewardship - caring for animals, land and food production in a way that works with nature rather than against it. 

“If I could encourage consumers to do one thing, it would be to ask questions about where their food comes from and how it is produced, because informed choices matter.” 

To plan your day out during Bank of Ireland Open Farm Weekend, visit www.openfarmweekend.com/ourfarms to find a participating farm near you, explore the activities on offer and get all the information you need for a great family day out. Whatever the weather, farms across Northern Ireland will be open and ready to welcome visitors.