At Lowther, farming and conservation go hand in hand. Intensive livestock farming has been replaced by grazing with native herbivores such as Longhorn cattle, Tamworth pigs and Fell Ponies. These animals now graze in a way that helps restore habitats, enhance biodiversity and encourage the return of species that have long been absent.

By encouraging wildflowers to flourish, supporting insects and birds, and enhancing biodiversity, Lowther’s farming practices demonstrate how agriculture can nurture the land and its ecosystems.

This approach balances productive land use with nature recovery, restoring habitats while producing sustainable food. Lowther’s vision for farming offers an inspiring blueprint for others, showing that it is possible to integrate agriculture with ecological restoration.

Lowther is being transformed into a landscape where nature is taking the lead. The restoration of key habitats—woodlands, wetlands, rivers and floodplains—has been a driving force behind this shift.

Thousands of native trees have been planted and extensive work has been done to rewild and reintroduce species, such as Water Voles and Beavers, that were once common in the area. Riparian woodlands now line the River Lowther, providing natural flood management, shading and improving water quality.

Lowther’s ongoing restoration work in its wetland and floodplain areas is helping to slow the flow of water, reduce flood risks and provide vital wildlife habitats. This approach has already led to a host of species returning to the estate, including wading birds, amphibians and aquatic plants.

Lowther’s 1,620 hectares of woodlands are at the heart of its restoration story, of which 267 hectares are ancient woodland.  These ancient trees, standing as witnesses to centuries of change, are high on the agenda, with thinning and underplanting projects helping to create healthier, more resilient and diverse habitats.

New woodland planting is also a key focus, with plans to establish over 500 hectares of native trees, including four miles of riparian woodlands running alongside the River Lowther. Instead of the old monoculture plantations, Lowther is moving towards creating a rich mosaic of mixed woodlands – a diverse, nature-friendly approach that supports both wildlife and sustainable timber production.

Deer management is another important part of the picture. By carefully managing deer numbers, the estate is giving young trees and other vegetation a real chance to thrive. It’s all about balance – protecting the natural regeneration of the woods while ensuring the deer population stays healthy too.

These trees will not only boost biodiversity but also connect fragmented habitats, providing wildlife corridors. The result is a landscape that is alive with wildlife, resilient to the challenges of the climate and ready to thrive for generations to come.

At Lowther, the vital role that healthy rivers and wetlands play in a thriving landscape has been recognised. Today, those natural treasures are being carefully restored, proving just how powerful working with nature can be.

At Setterah Park, by working alongside the Environment Agency and Eden Rivers Trust, Lowther has reunited the River Lowther with its ancient floodplain – a simple yet powerful step that’s already transforming the landscape. Now that the river has been allowed to spread, floodwaters are slowed, water quality is improved and healthier habitats are created for wildlife. It’s nature doing what it does best, once it is allowed.

The reintroduction of Beavers to the estate has further enhanced its wetland ecosystems, thanks to a pioneering partnership with the Cumbria Beaver Group.  Now, these industrious creatures are building dams and sculpting landscapes, creating rich habitats for species like Lapwings, Bats, Dragonflies and so many others.  Their work reduces flood risks by keeping more water in the landscape, proving just how invaluable they are in our fight to restore balance.

Peatland restoration has been another key element of Lowther’s nature recovery efforts. By rewetting drained bogs and restoring the natural water balance, the estate is breathing life back into these carbon-rich ecosystems. Healthy peatlands are not only vital habitats but are also incredible carbon stores and getting them back into shape is a critical step in addressing climate change. Together, these projects are transforming Lowther’s rivers, wetlands and peatlands into thriving, interconnected ecosystems.

Lowther Estate’s new Wildflower and Tree Nursery is at the heart of its ambitious efforts to restore upland hay meadows and acid grassland habitats. Supported by Cumbria Connect through the Endangered Landscapes & Seascapes Programme, the nursery focuses on cultivating plants and trees from locally-sourced seeds to protect the area’s ecological integrity.

Species like Melancholy Thistle, Bird’s Foot Trefoil and Wood Cranesbill are being grown to rejuvenate and bring colour to the area’s unique ecosystems, while native trees such as Juniper are helping to diversify habitats. Volunteers play a crucial role in the nursery’s success and the project aims to support the return of key pollinators and rare butterflies like the Marsh Fritillary by reintroducing essential plants such as Devil’s Bit Scabious, which is crucial for the butterfly’s lifecycle.

By fostering these critical habitats, the nursery is not only enhancing Lowther’s biodiversity but also setting a standard for sustainable conservation across Cumbria.