Courteenhall Estate in Northamptonshire, run by former doctor Johnny Wake, has been recognised for its outstanding approach to sustainable and regenerative farming
Johnny recently won Sustainable Farmer of the Year 2024 at the British Farming Awards and has now achieved another milestone. Courteenhall has become the first landholding in Northamptonshire, and one of only five nationally, to receive Wildlife Farms & Estates (WFE) England and Wales Level Two accreditation. This prestigious award was presented to Johnny Wake, Rosie Davis, and Jack Rawson at Groundswell, the annual regenerative agriculture festival in Hertfordshire, by Mark Tufnell, Chair of the Royal Agricultural Society of England.
WFE Level Two accreditation is considered a gold standard in promoting wildlife and biodiversity. It is awarded to farms that show a clear commitment to environmental, economic, and social sustainability through independent assessment.
Johnny said, “We’re really thrilled to have been presented with our Level Two accreditation, and to be the first estate in Northamptonshire to receive this prestigious award for our excellence in land management and nature. At Courteenhall we’re committed to continuous improvement and to making sure the business is as sustainable as possible for both the bottom line and the environment. Our strategy is to go above and beyond when it comes to farming and for working for nature, because everything we do on the land is about leaving a legacy to be proud of.”
Tom Leicester, The Earl of Leicester and Chairman of WFE, praised the estate’s approach. “Courteenhall Farms has embraced the start of its environmental journey with ambition and pace. From native cattle grazing and woodland regeneration to rewetting parkland and restoring historic ponds... Courteenhall embodies a strong sense of place, with the value of nature deeply woven into its ethos.”
Courteenhall is now seen as a leading example of forward-thinking land management.