Town End Cottage

Although primarily an alpaca breeder, Town End Farm is also establishing a herd of rare breed pedigree cattle.

Belted Galloways (Belties) are a hardy breed originating from the south west of Scotland, and following significant losses during the last Foot & Mouth epidemic, are currently classified as a ‘traditional rare breed’ (fewer than 1500 breeding females).

Fortunately, due to increasing popularity on hill farms, conservation site grazing and the trend towards traditional beef, the number of cattle in the UK is now dramatically improving.

‘Belties’ are small and sturdy, and are black with a white ‘belt’ around their middle - hence their name. They can stay outside in all weathers thanks to their double coat - one of long hair which sheds the rain and a soft undercoat which keeps them warm. Their tough skin is also a barrier to biting insects.

‘Belties’ convert rough grazing into lean meat and take longer to mature than modern commercial breeds, but their meat is very succulent and rich in flavour and texture.