20+ years of turkeys
When it comes to Christmas dinner, the turkey takes centre stage – and we know that exceptional quality starts with exceptional farming.
That’s why we’re proud to have worked with Chris Ware from Pigeon House Farm in Portchester since our very first Christmas back in 2001. Over two decades later, this partnership continues to bring you some of the finest turkeys available.
Chris specialises in slow-growing traditional Norfolk Bronze and White turkeys, and his approach to farming prioritises the welfare and natural behaviour of the birds.
The young turkeys arrive on the farm in June, and by December the turkeys are over six months old. This is significantly older than commercially produced turkeys.
The birds at Pigeon House Farm are fed on a natural cereal-based diet with no artificial growth promoters or unnecessary additives, just wholesome nutrition that supports healthy development.
During the day, the birds have access to roam freely outside with plenty of greenery and an enriched environment designed to keep them active and engaged. They can rummage in hedges, explore their surroundings, and roost on bales and perches – all behaviours that come naturally to turkeys and contribute to their wellbeing. At night, they’re housed in comfortable straw barns that protect them from the elements while providing a clean, safe space to rest.
Farm to table
The care that goes into raising these birds continues right through to your table. Chris follows traditional methods that have stood the test of time. Each bird is carefully dry-plucked. This process is more labour-intensive than mechanical plucking, but it preserves the quality of the skin and meat. The meat is then hung for seven days, allowing the meat to tenderise naturally.
This traditional approach means that every bird that reaches your table has been raised with genuine care and attention to detail. It’s this commitment to quality over quantity that keeps us coming back to Pigeon House Farm year after year.
When you choose one of Chris’s turkeys for your Christmas dinner, you’re supporting a local farmer who genuinely cares about his birds, preserving traditional farming methods, and investing in food that’s been produced with integrity.
Christmas countdown
There’s still time to secure a showstopper for your Christmas feast! By reserving your order now, you can relax knowing that the most important elements of your Christmas table are taken care of.
Our order form includes everything you need to make your Christmas celebrations special – from premium meat joints and trimmings to breakfast bacon and sausages, delicious pies, carefully selected wines, and artisan cheeses.
Our butchers are on hand to offer advice on sizes, cooking methods, and preparation tips to make sure your meal is nothing short of spectacular. Fill out our online form (link below), pop into the shop, or give us a call – we’d love to help make your Christmas dining memorable.
Order online: www.westlandsfarmshop.co.uk
Stocking fillers for foodies
Are you looking for the perfect little luxuries to tuck into Christmas stockings? Our team has been testing (very thoroughly, we might add) some of our wonderful artisan treats, and we’re excited to share our favourite stocking fillers for food and drink lovers.
Montezuma’s Chocolate – based not far away in West Sussex, Montezuma’s has become a firm favourite among our chocolate-loving customers and staff! For Christmas, we’re stocking their delightful caramel and white chocolate snowballs. These festive treats make wonderful stocking fillers or dinner party gifts, combining beautiful presentation with seriously good chocolate.
O’Donnell Moonshine Bauble Set – something that caught everyone’s attention in the shop – the moonshine gift box of minis, complete with ribbons so you can hang them on your Christmas tree! This is a fun treat for spirits and cocktail lovers, party hosts, or anyone who enjoys a festive tipple. Each mini bottle contains O’Donnell’s premium moonshine in various flavours, making this gift box perfect for those who like to try new things or enjoy a quality spirit.
Visiting us
As Christmas approaches, our shop will be bustling with seasonal produce, festive treats, and everything you need to create memorable meals. Whether you’re placing your Christmas order, picking up stocking fillers, or simply browsing our latest arrivals, we look forward to welcoming you.
Our Christmas opening hours:
Thank you for your continued support of Westlands Farm Shop and the local producers we’re proud to work with.
Wishing you a wonderful festive season,
The Team at Westlands Farm Shop
