A FORMER pig farm built in the 1800s has transformed into a vibrant community hub that houses a mix of creative businesses, artisan markets, and private events.
Located off the Rainford Bypass on Moss Nook Lane, Inglenook Farm was constructed around 1874 and became one of the largest pig farms in the area until it changed hands in 2007.
Once the owners left the premises, Inglenook took a real left turn as its pig pens were turned into lavender fields and its stables were converted into an essential oil distillery and mix of artisan shops.
As the farm also hosts private events, weddings, and artisan markets, it has developed into a popular and cherished location that is a world away from its former use.
READ > St Helens man appears in court charged with murder of council worker
Originally drawn to the farm for research projects, biologist Steve Holmes has acted as Inglenook's director since 2019 and has been at the helm as it has developed into an increasingly popular visitor attraction.
The farm's focus remains on essential oil production, Steve explained, as it extracts oils from its lavender fields and the frankincense resin it receives from East Africa, and distills this to sell to customers around the world.
It is Inglenook's varied collection of businesses, however, that has helped grow its reputation as a lively, modern, and community-friendly farm.
The "backbone" of these businesses, which drives the majority of customers to Moss Nook Lane, is the Cherry Orchard Teamroom located in the land's former farmhouse.
With a former premises along Church Road, the Cherry Orchard has been a well-known feature in Rainford and its owners took the opportunity to expand into a larger premises back in 2019.
Despite the struggles during the pandemic, staff member Eve Whitestaff said that the Cherry Orchard was able to retain its popular reputation as it offered takeout and deliveries to their loyal customers.
Once the cafe reopened without restrictions, Eve said that things have gotten "busier and busier" as customers travel from far and wide to try their "large menu" of breakfasts, sandwiches, and afternoon teas.
With Inglenook farm surrounded by fields, another popular hub on its premises is The Dog Barn, which provides grooming services and a wide range of pet treats and essentials.
Developing a "great relationship" with customers, the family-run business also offers additional services such as pet training, dog walking, and a canine bakery.
With another Dog Barn at Catchdale Moss Farm, owner Jo Parr said that the business provides owners with "the best options and pets with the best care possible".
Next door to the Dog Barn is the North West Canine Hydrotherapy Centre, which provides a modern swimming pool to around 60 dogs a week, assisting with any rehabilitation, conditions, or injuries.
There is also 'Casa-Ancora' in the Inglenook courtyard which provides upcycled furniture products and unique accessories, while Texport Syndicate imports fabric from India and sells designs to huge fashion brands such as Matalan and Next.
A seasonal ice cream shop, a wreath and floral gift shop, and a temporary gallery fill up further space on the farm's courtyard, while a back-of-house barn is used to host artisan markets of unique crafts, local produce, and homemade delicacies every fortnight.
Weddings and private events are also hosted on the farm's back fields to utilise every inch of the multi-use space, with a 'Bushcraft festival' planned on the fields on Friday, September 1.
Steve said: "We get customers visiting the lavender fields from early June when they're in bloom, and I keep a focus on the lavender and frankincense oils in the lab.
"To grow the farm, we wanted to have a good mix of high-quality businesses on the courtyard, that naturally fit together.
"People may come for the tearooms, but they go on to explore the other businesses or vice-versa, so everyone works to the benefit of each other and helps each other out.
"So there's a real good feeling on the farm and there's something for everyone here."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel