Landscape & Environment
Farming
Farming remains the most significant activity in terms of land area with the majority of land let on traditional tenancies. In many cases, the same family has farmed the land for generations.
Approximately 3,000 acres is farmed by the Spencer family whose farming aim is to combine efficient food production with conservation of habitat and wildlife. There is a strong tradition of good hedgerow management across the Estate, with regular new planting, restoration and hedge laying taking place.
Through careful management the Estate can boast a healthy population of many species that are considered rare or endangered, including Skylarks, wild Grey Partridges and Barn Owls. In Northamptonshire we are working with the South Midlands Barn Owl Conservation Project which monitors Barn Owls, provides nesting boxes and releases birds into the wild from time to time.
On the North Creake Estate in Norfolk,a new project is underway to support the wild Grey Partridge, with farming practices being tailored to ensure the most suitable cropping and the best use of field margins to give the birds good nesting, feeding and brood rearing cover.
Trees and Woodland
Trees are a vital part of the Estate's character, with the forestry team being responsible for the care of around 1,000 acres of woodland, which have been carefully managed by the Spencer family over the centuries. Woodland accounts for 10% of the Estate's land area - much more than the typical English landscape. This is a direct result of the long-term stewardship that a single and continuous ownership has provided.
Historic Homes, Medieval Castles, Historic Exhibitions Althorp Park is noted for its stunning veteran trees, mainly Oak, some of which are more than 400 years old. To protect this heritage we have prepared a 20 year Forest Plan to clarify our long-term vision and to ensure continuity of management. In addition to commercial timber production, our key objectives are to maintain the very significant landscape and habitat value of the woodlands.
The Built Environment
Conservation of the built environment is also a important task. The upkeep of the Grade I listed Althorp House and Stables are the biggest challenges, with a regular programme of conservation and repairs in place.
Historic Homes, Medieval Castles, Historic Exhibitions In addition, there is the need to maintain more than 15 miles of stone walls, in excess of 100 listed buildings and structures, 20 thatched buildings, 3 scheduled ancient monuments and many other important landscape features.
A recent project has involved repairs to the Grade II Listed St. John's Spire at Little Brington. The original Church was demolished in 1947, with the Spire being left as landmark for RAF pilots during training.
Community Facilities, Recreation and Public Access
The Estate takes an active part in the provision of community facilities and works closely with Parish Councils. Examples include two village Post Offices, village halls, sports fields and pocket parks. The Estate has also been involved in the provision of affordable housing in two villages locally.
The Estate is also committed to the upkeep of the many miles of public rights of way that run through it, while actively promoting the use of 300 acres of woodland at Harlestone Firs, near Northampton for informal recreation; a facility that many thousands of people visit annually without charge.