Some of the most successful diversification enterprises include tourism enterprises such as glamping pods and camping, cafes and farm shops, and conversion of buildings for holiday lets. Eco tourism or the growing of biomass fuel may also be options. Adding value to the products you already produce can be profitable, such as direct meat or egg sales and utilising skins and wool. Some diversification enterprises require a significant financial input up front, though there are some grants and funding available from local and national organisations (see below).
If you would like to explore diversification opportunities, speak to a local land agent or adviser, or contact your local farmer network group.
See who is providing free farm business advice in Cumbria: Organisations giving free advice in your area (listed by county) – gov.uk
The Adding Value grant is currently closed but may reopen again in 2023.
See also: Farming in Protected Landscapes, Woodland Grants, and the Farm Business section.
Learn More
Inviting people onto your farm? Know your Health and Safety
- Farm Visitor Health and Safety – Industry Code of Practice | Social Farms and Gardens
- Safe farms, safe staff and visitors – a guide to legislation | Farmers Weekly
- The Industry Code of Practice “Preventing or Controlling Ill Health from Animal Contact at Visitor Attractions” | Access to Farms
- Farm visits: avoiding infection | Gov.uk
Changing your business | AHDB
Information about considering your current position and where to take your business.
23 Farm Diversification Ideas for 2023 | The Business Barn
Ideas including storage, pet boarding, dog field and training, rare breeds, farm and forest schools, rural skills, and office space.
Farm Management Handbook | Farm Advisory Service Scotland
The Farm Management Handbook has a section on diversification starting a page 285. It includes sections on alternative livestock, agri-tourism, ecotourism and nature-based tourism, wellbeing tourism, self-catering, glamping and more.
Cumbria Local Enterprise Partnership | Rural
Cumbria Local Enterprise Partnership (CLEP) is providing a strategic lead on all activities contributing to the county’s economic growth. Explore their website for opportunities to diversify your business.
Farmwell diversification
Resources on where to get help and how to diversify.
The Farmer Network | Providing Help and Support to Farmers
Get inspired and discuss ways to diversify with the Farmer Network.