Countryfile star Adam Henson reflected on his farming career over the years and the rapidly evolving landscape of today’s industry
Adam Henson said much of his professional accomplishments are down to “luck and judgement”, as he looked back on his journey so far. The 60-year-old presenter is perhaps most recognised for his role on the BBC’s Countryfile, where he has been a familiar face for over two decades.
His television appearances extend beyond the show, including contributions to Farming Today on BBC Radio 4, Gardeners’ World and Our Family Farm Rescue. Despite being regarded as one of the nation’s foremost farmers, Adam suggests his achievements haven’t solely resulted from dedication and effort.
Looking back at his formative years, he expressed regret about his approach to education during a conversation with Yours Magazine.
“I wish I had worked harder at school. I was always trying to be Jack the Lad, making jokes and having a laugh, and I tried to avoid studying,” he admitted.
“If I’d studied harder, I think I probably would have achieved more. What I’ve achieved is more through luck and judgement.”
Adam, who also operates Cotswold Farm Park, reflected on the transformation he’s witnessed within the agricultural sector in recent time.
“There’s a lot of extraordinary stuff going on with advanced technology in farming using AI and robotics, which is just mind-blowing,” he noted.
He pointed to innovations including autonomous tractors, unmanned aerial vehicles, automated milking systems, precision laser weeding equipment and sophisticated field analysis through zoning and radar mapping.
Supporting these initiatives, Adam remarked: “Not only is it great for the environment, it can increase efficiency and profits.”
Despite his presence on screen for over 20 years however, the agriculturalist confessed he remains anxious that his television work might suddenly cease.
“I still have to pinch myself,” he revealed to WhatToWatch.com. “The media world is very fickle, though, and I know they’ll drop me one of these days. But I’ll just get back to being a farmer full time, which is fine by me.”
Speaking exclusively to Express.co.uk, he expressed his desire for BBC commissioners to keep him on board while he remains suitable for Countryfile.
“As long as they renew my contract on an annual basis then I’ll stay. Unless I’m tempted by another channel with something exciting to do, my heart is with the BBC,” he explained.
“I’m sure my face won’t fit forever – and when it doesn’t, I’ll go back to being a normal farmer.”
Away from the cameras, the Countryfile presenter has two adult children, Ella and Alfie, with his wife Charlotte.
The broadcaster and his family reside at Bemborough Farm, situated on the same estate as the Cotswold Farm Park.
