Adam Henson, the familiar face from BBC’s Countryfile, has shared the touching story behind a beloved new arrival at his family’s Cotswold Farm Park near Guiting Power, Cheltenham. This “enigmatic” young animal has truly captured the hearts of the Henson family.
Spanning 50 acres, the Cotswold Farm Park proudly holds the distinction of being Britain’s oldest farm park. Founded in 1971, it offers visitors the rare chance to see more than 50 rare and native breeds spanning seven species of UK farm animals.
Among these varieties, one particular animal has captured Adam’s imagination and affection. He wrote in his Cotswold Life magazine column about a beautiful young Jersey cow named Gillian - a name inspired by actresses Gillian Anderson and Gillian Taylforth, but also carrying personal significance to him.
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Adam describes Gillian as a “perfect example” of the breed: a one-year-old cow with a toffee-coloured coat, known for its gentle nature, large, expressive eyes, aristocratic presence, and notably long lashes. This breed is prized for producing richly creamy milk.
The Jersey cow holds a special place in Adam’s family history. His father, Joe Henson, founder of the Rare Breeds Survival Trust, fell in love with a Jersey dairy herd during a childhood visit, and his first milking experience was with a Jersey cow. Reflecting this family connection, Adam and his wife Charlie have decided to spell their new cow’s name “Gillie” in memory of his mother, who was named Gillian but affectionately called Gillie.
Beyond the farm and its animals, Adam recently spoke candidly about the future of Cotswold Farm Park. While the farm remains a treasured family legacy, his children have chosen different career paths. His daughter works as an events organiser in Perth, and his son is a financial advisor in Leeds. Adam acknowledges this marks “the end of an era.”
With the farm’s tenancy expiring in 12 years, Adam and Charlie plan to move to a bungalow nearby in Winchcombe, where they will maintain a smallholding with a few sheep and dogs, continuing to enjoy the glorious countryside they love.
Countryfile viewers can catch the latest episode on BBC One tonight, August 9, from 7pm to 8pm.