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A Woolly Weekend 2025
IMAGE: This Media Lark - The Worshipful Company of Woolmen
Sheep on the Bridge: The Annual Sheep Drive & Livery Fair, London
Each autumn, the heart of London comes alive with an ancient tradition. The annual Sheep Drive across Southwark Bridge. This event goes back hundreds of years, to when farmers would ‘drive’ their flocks into the city to sell at market. The privilege of crossing the bridge toll-free belonged to Freemen of the City of London. A right that symbolised the deep connection between the city and its rural suppliers.
Although the original practice faded with the arrival of motor vehicles in the early 20th century. It was joyfully revived in 2013 by the Worshipful Company of Woolmen. Today, it’s not just about history — the Sheep Drive and its lively Livery Fair celebrate British wool, farming traditions, and the enduring bond between urban life and the countryside.
This year’s event was filled with colour, character, and of course, sheep! Special guest Adam Henson — well-known author and Countryfile presenter — led a flock across the bridge, much to the delight of the crowds. Adam also stopped by our Herdy stand, where we were showcasing our Herdycountry range, made with our own unique blend of Herdwick wool from Lake District farms. Alongside this, visitors were able to discover our Herdysleep mattress and 100% British wool bedding. Perfect examples of how wool continues to play an important role in modern life.
For Herdy, being part of this day is about more than sharing our products. It’s about standing proudly with British Wool. Celebrating the incredible farmers who raise and care for the sheep, and helping to keep a centuries-old tradition alive in a modern world.
IMAGE: Herdy Co-Founder Spencer Hannah and Presenter Adam Henson
Honouring Future Farmers: The Eskdale Show, Cumbria
While the streets of London were filled with sheep, back home in Cumbria another celebration of farming was taking place: The Eskdale Show. Nestled in the stunning Western Lake District. This traditional agricultural show is one of the highlights of the Cumbrian calendar. It brings together farmers, families, and communities for a day of competitions, crafts, and camaraderie.
For Herdy, the highlight of the day was sponsoring the World Champion Herdwick Award. This year’s winners were young farming couple Patrick (Paddy) Fitzwilliam and his partner Jasmine, from Hall Dunnerdale Farm in the Duddon Valley. Managing a flock of 250 Herdwick sheep on the rugged slopes of Caw Fell, Paddy and Jasmine embody the future of upland fell farming.
Their passion and dedication shine through in everything they do. Paddy, a third-generation farmer, takes immense pride in the quality of his flock’s fleece. While Jasmine, with her background in animal management, brings her own deep love and knowledge to the farm. The couple recently welcomed their first child, making this win even more special.
Herdy has an extra connection to Paddy and Jasmine, too. They are one of the farms we work with to source Herdwick wool for our Herdysleep mattresses. So seeing them take home the champion’s trophy felt particularly meaningful.
It was the second time Paddy has won the award with the same ewe — a testament to his skill and dedication. Our very own retail manager, Emma, was there to cheer them on and help present the prize.
The Eskdale Show is more than just competition; it’s about celebrating community, heritage, and the people who will carry these traditions forward. Watching young farmers like Paddy and Jasmine thrive gives us huge hope for the future of Herdwick sheep and upland farming in Cumbria.
