WHO WE ARE
OUR STORY
We initially started The Tractor Shed as a way of gathering friends and family to share in the produce from our amazing Dexter cattle and Ryeland sheep.
At first people came for the food, but as time went by it naturally became about connections and growing a like minded community. We saw how much people enjoyed being in the Valley and when we put our first live music night together, we realised we had something a little special.
Today, The Tractor Shed is home to a brilliant and growing community who share our love for this special place — coming together to eat great food from the land, listen to live music and, most importantly, have a really good time.
We hope to see you up here soon,
Jakie & Zoe x
WHO WE ARE
the history
For over a hundred years, the chalk-rich pastures of Highclere Valley have helped produce some of the world’s leading thoroughbreds. Generations of horses have been born and raised here, making the land an integral part of Highclere Stud’s history and success.
It is extraordinary countryside — beautiful rolling hills, naturally rich in minerals and with pastures that have been carefully nurtured over generations. Everything we do here starts with looking after that land and allowing it to continue doing what it has done so well for more than a century.
WHO WE ARE
the land
Today, our Dexter cattle and Ryeland sheep have become an important part of that same story. Horses, cattle and sheep rotate across the pastures, each grazing the land in a different way and helping it regenerate naturally, while making the most of what the Valley provides.
This cross-grazing approach allows us to work with nature — reducing the need for fertilisers, helping to control worm burdens and improving the health of our pastures. The result is a simple, sustainable cycle: healthy land producing exceptional thoroughbreds alongside delicious beef and lamb, all from the same beautiful Valley.
Highclere Valley
meet the team
CO-FOUNDER
Jakie works across the Stud, Farm and The Tractor Shed, bringing ideas, energy and a bit of vision to the mix. He’s happiest getting stuck in alongside the team, bringing people together and helping make good things happen.
Jakie
CO-FOUNDER
Zoe helps all creative ventures at The Tractor Shed and the Valley’s stays, helping curate spaces that feel warm, individual and full of character. She also leads, alongside the team, the events, stays, sales and marketing.
ZOE
GENERAL MANAGER
Dan is at the centre of the day-to-day running of Highclere Valley, working closely alongside Jakie and Zoe and overseeing projects across the business. With a wealth of experience in racecourse management, hospitality and sporting events, his calm, capable approach and eye for detail make him an integral part of The Tractor Shed team.
DAN
Matt
HEAD CHEF & RESIDENT ARTIST
Matt brings an incredible background in street food and artwork to The Tractor Shed, with a distinctive talent as both an artist and a chef. Full of character and originality, his brilliant artwork and delicious food have become central to the creative identity of The Tractor Shed.
ArchIE
PROJECT MANAGER & RESIDENT CARPENTER
Archie has been integral to the building and evolution of The Tractor Shed, using his career as a carpenter to bring fresh ideas, craftsmanship and character to the space. From the stage and handcrafted bars to the courtyards and beyond, his work has helped shape The Tractor Shed’s distinctive look and feel.
