Adam Henson, presenter of Countryfile, has candidly described 2024 as an exceptionally difficult year for both tourism and agriculture across the UK, attributing much of the hardship to unusual and severe weather conditions.
The year saw the sixth highest recorded spring rainfall ever, followed by a lackluster summer marked only by a short-lived heatwave in August. Additionally, the 2023-24 period experienced the highest number of named storms since the system began ten years ago. Persistent heavy rains continued into September, ushering in a challenging autumn and negatively impacting crop yields.
Adam said, “It’s been very challenging for tourist enterprises and farms nationwide because the conditions have been truly horrible. There are fields with crops we haven’t been able to harvest at all.”
READ MORE: Clarkson’s Farm Viewers Spot Subtle Political Message in Season 4 Finale
READ MORE: New Cheltenham Football Club and Community Sports Hub Take Major Step Forward
Highlighting the financial pressures on farmers, Adam spoke to Minerva magazine about how over 60% of them now rely on secondary jobs to offset inconsistent harvest returns. He and his business partner Duncan have worked tirelessly over the last three decades to diversify income streams on their farm, developing facilities like the Cotswold Farm Park and expanding camping and glamping amenities.
Reflecting on his upbringing, Adam credits his late father, Joe Henson—a TV presenter known for In The Country—with teaching him the value of adaptability in farming. “I grew up surrounded by a variety of income streams on the farm, from TV work to the popular Farm Park, which shaped my outlook.”
From his teenage years, Adam became deeply involved in the family’s farming enterprise, passionately blending traditional farming with tourism. “I love the Farm Park and the camping elements,” he shares. “It’s a beautiful spot, and I enjoy sharing it with visitors.”
Despite the rewards, Adam is frank about the inherent risks in farming. “To be a farmer, you must be incredibly committed. I grew up in Wiltshire where many friends were farmers, and none knew if they’d have a good year until it was over.”
Adam also recalls the devastating impact of the Foot and Mouth epidemic in 2001, which cost the UK an estimated £8 billion and resulted in over six million animals being culled. At the time, he was heavily invested in Cotswold Farm Park, carrying significant debt.
“We were in serious trouble,” he admitted in The Countrywoman’s Guide. “The farm closed, the bank was closing in on us, and our landlord was pressing as well. We had all our assets tied up in the farm; if we lost it, we lost our homes and livelihoods.”
Despite these challenges, Adam’s resilience and commitment to innovation continue to guide his efforts, reflecting the spirit required to sustain farming through hardship.