Land Management
Sustainable Agriculture
Farming plays a hugely important role across the Rosebery Estate. Intrinsic to the landscapes and communities for thousands of years, it continues to provide a way of life for many on the Estate today.
From upland hill farms with grazing sheep to lowland fields of arable crops, the Estate’s blend of grouse moorland and farmland supports a rich mix of farming practices and diverse ecologies. Our ongoing moorland management works in close partnership with extensive sheep farming over the uplands.
Rosebery Estates supports a balanced mix of tenanted and in-hand farms and is committed to utilising the latest technology, best practices, and innovation in our farming operations.
Regenerative Farming: Rosebery Estates embraces regenerative agriculture to support biodiversity, enhance soil health, and maintain ecosystem balance.
Low-Impact Farming: The estate follows sustainable farming principles wherever possible, integrating modern technology to reduce chemical inputs, protecting soil health and water quality.
Our Livestock: The estate is home to a thriving Highland herd, suckler cows, a Texel-cross Lleyn flock, Blackface Hill Farm Sheep, Mangalitsa pigs, and a managed wild deer population. Our livestock graze year-round on permanent grass parkland, naturally fertilising the land. The Highland herd has become a local favourite and has even appeared in wedding albums and films shot on the estate.
Regenerative Practices: Crop rotation, reduced tillage, and soil regeneration improve long-term soil health, prevent erosion, and contribute to carbon capture.
Local Supply Chains: By prioritising local suppliers and distributors, Rosebery Estates minimises food miles, reduces its carbon footprint, and supports the rural economy. Where possible, we ensure our beef, lamb, pork, and venison remain within the local community. A great example is our Highland herd, which is processed just minutes from the estate and sold at Craigie Farm Shop, allowing customers to enjoy produce sourced directly from the land where it was born and raised. Additionally, 1,200 tonnes of high-quality malting barley grown on our fields are supplied directly to the whisky industry.
Biodiversity Conservation
Woodland Management: Rosebery Estate manages a significant portion of its land as protected woodland, fostering biodiversity and safeguarding native Scottish flora and fauna. The estate’s woodlands blend conservation with sustainable forestry. At lower elevations, mature broadleaf woodlands, such as those on Dalmeny Estate, have been carefully managed for generations, providing enjoyment for local communities. Inland, estate woodlands support farming by offering shelter and wildlife corridors, with ancient and semi-ancient natural woodlands managed with minimal intervention. Additionally, mixed woodlands contribute to sustainable timber production through ongoing replanting and felling.
South of Scotland, our forest is managed under Forest Stewardship Council certification. Through landscape-designed felling and replanting, this forest is evolving towards greater ecological diversity, integrating open spaces and enhanced habitats along watercourses.
Wildlife Habitat Preservation: We are dedicated to protecting local ecosystems and supporting diverse wildlife, from deer to various bird species. Conservation efforts include the creation of 110 miles of biodiversity corridors for birds and mammals and the planting of 2km of native hedgerows, including buckthorn, holly, and blackthorn, to enhance natural habitats.
Wildflower Meadows: Rosebery Estates supports pollinators and enhances biodiversity by cultivating wildflower meadows with minimal human intervention. These meadows have been designated as permanent grassland and wildland, creating vital habitats for diverse species. Some of the arable land is planted with cover crops such as grass vetch, clover, and nectar-rich plants to improve soil fertility and attract wildlife.
Community and Educational Engagement
Parkland & Foreshore Maintenance: We maintain our parkland, riparian margins, and all public access routes for the enjoyment of local communities. This effort promotes the growth of native flora, fauna, and foreshore seagrasses, allowing visitors to connect with the natural environment.
Providing Homes for Families, Businesses & Estate Staff: We offer a range of housing options for families, businesses, and estate staff, ensuring stable accommodation and benefits. This initiative strengthens the local workforce and contributes to the long-term sustainability of both the estate and the surrounding community.
Eco-Tourism: The estate provides eco-friendly event experiences that promote environmental conservation and Scottish heritage. We encourage guests to appreciate and protect the natural surroundings during their visits.
Explore Rosebery Estates…
Our vision is to enrich the community, showcase our estate’s grandeur,
and preserve it for future generations.
