Welcome to the cosy corner of Chase Farm! Nestled amidst the sprawling greenery of the Forest of Dean and between the Wye rivers, this family farm has been a haven for happy cows and delicious produce for generations. They’re a working dairy farm, the farmlands echoing with gentle mooing as the herd grazes contentedly. Fresh air, rolling hills, and the calming presence of the Wye River winding its way nearby – that’s the backdrop to life on this farm. But it’s not just the beautiful setting that makes Chase Farm special. They’re passionate about sustainable practices and bringing the freshest, most wholesome dairy products straight from the farm to your table. So, head along to visit them as they share their daily adventures, farm-fresh milk, and a glimpse into life on a dairy farm nestled in the heart of the Forest of Dean.
We recently visited Chase Farm to attend a lamb-feeding event. It was a beautifully warm afternoon and we popped along after school to celebrate the Unicorn reaching the end of her SATs. The sessions are small and intimate, Chase Farm currently have just 4 lambs so therefore only 4 people can feed them which means this is essentially a VIP event for 1 family at a time. We had the most wonderful time. When we arrived, Lisa, one of the farm owners, took us through to the cow shed to meet the lambs in their pen and the calves who were also being housed there. The Dinosaur was delighted to be able to help mix up the feed and pour it into the bottle ready to feed them. He was so incredibly careful, especially when he was pouring from the jug into the bottles. Normally he’s like a bull in a china shop so to see him slow down and take such care was a very special moment for me. We loved every moment of feeding them and cuddling them.
When our time with the lambs was over, we headed across the car park to indulge in some ice cream. This family-run haven isn’t just a picturesque escape; it’s the source of some of the most delightful ice cream you’ll ever encounter – Chase Farm Ice Cream.
Their secret? It all starts with the grass-fed dairy cows. Free-roaming and happy, this dairy herd produce rich, creamy whole milk that forms the base of their ice cream. Unlike commercially produced milk, Chase Farm’s offering is minimally processed. They offer pasteurised milk over homogenized, a method that disrupts the milk’s natural fat globules. This results in a more rustic texture and a taste that’s pure, unadulterated, and bursting with freshness.
For those seeking an even more authentic experience, Chase Farm offers a limited supply of unprocessed raw cow milk with a distinctive layer of cream directly from the farm’s grass-fed cows. Note that raw milk consumption comes with its own set of considerations, so it’s best to do your research for additional information before indulging.
But back to the ice cream! Made in small batches, Chase Farm’s ice cream is a testament to slow, artisanal production. The time of year plays a significant role in the flavours available. Spring and summer, when the cows are at their happiest, often see an explosion of fresh fruit flavours – think ruby red strawberry, plump and juicy raspberry ripple, or perhaps a tangy and sweet summer berry medley.
Autumn brings a touch of warmth with flavours like spiced apple crumble or decadent salted caramel. Winter transforms the selection into a cosy haven of comforting classics – rich chocolate, smooth vanilla bean, and the ever-popular farmhouse, pure and simple ice cream that with a delicate flavour that lets the quality of the milk truly shine.
The ice cream itself boasts a delightful texture. Unlike commercially produced varieties filled with air, Chase Farm’s ice cream is denser, and creamier, with a more intense sweet taste. Each spoonful is a luxurious indulgence, a far cry from the often artificial flavours found in store-bought tubs. They certainly know how to get the right balance of wonderful flavour.
So, how do you get your hands on this delightful treat? During the warmer months, Chase Farm operates a charming horsebox ice cream van that heads out to local events. they also have on-site a year-round vending machine where the flavours change on a regular basis, perfect for grabbing a scoop (or two) after a stroll through their scenic pastures. You can also find Chase Farm Ice Cream at select local stores and delis, where it’s sure to stand out from the generic brands.
Chase Farm Ice Cream isn’t just a dessert; it’s an experience. It’s a taste of the countryside, a celebration of tradition, and a testament to the power of fresh, high-quality ingredients. It’s the perfect way to cool down on a summer day or indulge in a comforting treat during the colder months. So, the next time you’re in the Forest of Dean area, or if you find Chase Farm stocked at your local farm store, don’t hesitate to grab a pint – it’s a taste of pure, delicious satisfaction.
When you head to the farm itself, not only can you stock up on your delicious fresh milk and ice cream but you can also pick up a milkshake, coffee made with their milk, duck eggs some grass-fed beef or even a pot of their own unique yoghurt recipe.
For more information, head to www.chasemilk.co.uk
