Narnia Farm Saved from Sale After Local Outcry

Four-hundred-year-old water meadows in Herefordshire, historically linked to C.S. Lewis's Narnia, have been withdrawn from sale following a successful local campaign. The Turnastone Court meadows, considered England's oldest such pastureland, inspired Lewis, who imagined the landscape as his vision of heaven. The site also features early 16th Century stone sluice gates, representing one of England's earliest water management systems.

The Countryside Regeneration Trust, which bought the land in 2003, initially decided to sell 247 acres as part of a consolidation strategy. However, after significant public outcry and engagement with campaigners and the BBC, the trustees reversed their decision. The trust confirmed that the land itself will be retained, though discussions about selling adjacent farm buildings, a lodge, and a cottage are ongoing.

Local conservationists and farmers emphasize the importance of keeping the land and usable buildings together for the farm's viability. They are urging the charity to implement protections to preserve the unique heritage and wildlife habitats, which include meadows, orchards, pasture, and woodland supporting numerous species.

This historical farmland has a legacy of community protection, notably during the World Wars when locals prevented it from being ploughed to ensure food production. Today's campaigners hope to secure its future and set an example for future conservation efforts. The trust acknowledged the community's passion and expressed a commitment to working collaboratively on the farm's future vision.