Duchess Sophie finds plenty to chew on during countryside visit

The Duchess of Edinburgh got stuck into country life during a busy visit to rural Cumbria.

From meeting farm animals and greeting a horse to trying her hand at the traditional skill of dry-stone walling, Sophie enjoyed the practical side of life in the countryside. 

During her visit to Seatoller Farm, the Duchess also attempted to cut a ram’s horn and joined young visitors for a skills session.

She also met little Mabel, the daughter of National Trust farm tenant Ruby Simpson. 

Sophie was also photographed making pizza during her time at the farm, adding another relaxed touch to her day in the Cumbrian countryside.

As patron of The Addington Fund since 2021, Sophie officially opened the first farm to take part in the charity’s New Entrant Scheme at Whins Farm in Workington. 

The initiative is designed to give first-generation farmers a route into agriculture, creating new opportunities for those hoping to build a future in the industry while helping protect the future of smaller hill farms.

The Duchess also visited Home Grown Here, where she heard more about community projects focused on sustainable food production.

At Low Beckside Farm in Mungrisdale, the Ernest Cook Trust’s learning and demonstration farm, Sophie explored how young people are being introduced to farming through education, training and practical skills. 

Later, in Borrowdale, the Duchess visited Nook Farm to see how traditional upland farming is being combined with new ideas.