Hafren Rare Breeds is helping to rebuild local food economies

We believe that changing the way we produce and distribute food is fundamental to solving the world’s most pressing social and ecological problems.

About Hafren Rare Breeds

Hafren Rare Breeds is run by Jessi and Chris Stephens, and we farm rare and traditional breeds on the beautiful Monmouthshire banks of the River Severn. Chris is a fourth-generation local farmer, while Jessi is brand new to farming – a true “new entrant” learning everything from the ground up!

Our farming journey began with rented barns and borrowed fields for sheep and calves. It was a bit of a patchwork at first, but in 2022 we were lucky enough to be awarded a tenancy with Monmouthshire County Council here – and that gave us the solid start we needed.

We didn’t set out to farm native and rare breeds, but it turns out they suit us (and our land) perfectly. We now keep Belted Welsh Blacks – the ancient cattle of Wales – who happily live outside all year round and turn grass into rich, healthy beef. We also raise pedigree Welsh pigs in outdoor systems, selling their meat directly to local butchers and our customers.

We also now have a micro dairy with our lovely a2a2 Jersey cows as well as farm fresh eggs from our free range hens and geese.

The benefits of buying local

Local food supports local economies. Food grown in the local community supports local jobs and encourages variety in our diets. It also requires less transportation, so it's fresher and has a smaller environmental footprint.

Fresher food

Reduced food miles

Support local jobs

Respect for the food system

Fewer preservatives

Better value for money

Reduced packaging

The eggs are so yummy - and its all the better knowing they come from Happy Hens and Geese

— Louise

Get started!

Your first box is only a few clicks away. Get a box of fresh, local food in your kitchen soon, packed with care and supporting your local farmers and artisan producers.