Tea with the Bees, Cake with the Cows

Join Us for ‘Tea with the Bees, Cake with the Cows’ this July after a sell out event in June!

Experience the magic of our regenerative farm, ‘The Orlock’, situated on the beautiful coastline between Donaghadee and Groomsport. As a ‘Pasture For Life’ certified farm, we are committed to enhancing biodiversity, improving animal welfare, farming with nature and producing superior quality 100% pasture-fed beef. This event will give you an insider’s look into how we believe it’s ‘not the cow, it’s the how’ whilst you enjoy life on our very special farm.

Event Highlights

Begin this family friendly journey with a warm welcome and a guided tour through our lush, biodiverse pastures. Learn about our transition from conventional to regenerative farming and discover the story of where Ballyboley Dexters all began. Walk through the 16 species 'herbal leys' that help improve soil structure, feed our cattle a nourishing diet and support  a farm that’s bursting with pollinators, birds and wildlife!

As you walk, you'll hear fascinating tales about Orlock’s rich history, the influence of Irish and Ulster Scots people, and stories of the Orlock Coach Road, the Copeland Islands vikings, smugglers and much more.

Meet our adorable Dexter cattle and their calves, and learn about the crucial role they, along with our native black Irish bees, play in maintaining a nature-friendly farm. You’ll also hear the intriguing story of how a handful of Galloway cattle joined our Dexter herd!

This beautiful experience concludes with a Farmhouse Tea - wild style!  Enjoy a delicious spread while seated in the middle of the field, surrounded by stunning views and picturesque landscapes. There may even be a special visitor during your farm house tea... The farmhouse tea includes a choice of tea or coffee, savoury items featuring our Dexter Beef and homemade sweet treats. 

We proudly feature local producers, including our own free-range hen eggs, home grown chives and Pasture For Life Dexter beef, Ballycrochan Artisan milk, Bró coffee and family-run Thompsons tea.

Important Information

• Your ticket includes a guided farm tour and a delicious homemade farmhouse tea, served al fresco.
• Under 16s must be accompanied by a paying adult. The tour covers approximately 2km over fields without footpaths, so it may not be suitable for those with mobility issues. We will do our utmost to accommodate all individuals, so please contact us to discuss any concerns.
• This experience is based outdoors, so you must dress appropriately for navigating uneven ground and for varying weather conditions. In the case of adverse weather that would impact your enjoyment, we will reschedule the event or offer a full refund if the new date doesn’t suit.
• Please ensure that you check with all members of your party regarding food allergies, intolerances, and dietary requirements prior to booking. It is the responsibility of the ticket holder to inform us about any specific dietary needs at least 72 hours before the event by contacting: hello@ballyboleydexters.com.
• Menus for this experience are seasonal and subject to change without advance notice. Sample menus can be provided on request.
• We want to make your experience as enjoyable as possible. Due to the nature of this experience and the likelihood of visitors being around high pollen areas, if you have medical conditions such as allergies including bee stings or hay fever, please bring appropriate medical treatment as per your GP or pharmacist and inform us by contacting: hello@ballyboleydexters.com.
• Please review our full terms and conditions and do not hesitate to contact us with any queries prior to the event.

We look forward to welcoming you to ‘Tea with the Bees, Cake with the Cows’! 

Pre tour advice and map will be sent to ticket holders prior to the event. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions or queries at all.