Adam Henson, the longtime presenter of BBC’s Countryfile, has opened up about the delicate balance he faces in delivering farming content that appeals to a broad audience. After nearly 25 years on the show, Henson—a farmer himself who manages Bemborough Farm and Cotswold Farm Park—acknowledges the frustration some farmers feel when the programme simplifies agricultural topics.
Speaking on the FarmED podcast, Henson explained that Countryfile is a magazine-style countryside show, not exclusively focused on farming. This means the content often needs to be accessible to viewers unfamiliar with rural life. “I have to dumb down some of the farming language,” he admitted, recognising that while this approach helps educate urban audiences, it can alienate seasoned farmers who find the content too basic.
Henson described how a typical segment involving cattle needs extra explanation for clarity: “I might say, ‘We’re moving a bunch of steers through the handling system to TB test them,’ but then I have to break that down for viewers who don’t know the terminology.” He pointed out the challenge of catering to diverse viewers—from farmers to children in city flats—highlighting the show’s aim to be inclusive.
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He also addressed criticism from farmers who feel the show could be more robust in championing British agriculture. To them, Henson emphasized that the BBC’s priority is creating a programme that reaches millions, not solely to promote farming. Despite the challenges, Countryfile remains one of the UK’s most-watched factual shows.
Henson’s commitment to impartiality as a BBC presenter means he must avoid bias or campaigning, even on issues close to his heart. With an audience spanning rural communities and urban dwellers alike, striking the right tone is essential.
This evening at 6pm on BBC One, Adam Henson will present episodes highlighting conservation efforts at Devon’s Exe Estuary and showcasing a new nature reserve, continuing his mission to bring the countryside’s stories to a diverse audience.