Countryfile’s Adam Henson admits fears for farm’s future and says ‘that’s the end of it’
Countryfile’s Adam Henson admits fears for farm’s future and says ‘that’s the end of it’
Countryfile presenter Adam Henson has raised concerns about the farming future, warning that new restrictions on hands-on animal experiences could permanently change farm visitor attractions like his own Cotswold Farm Park.
Adam Henson has voiced apprehensions regarding the future of hands-on farming, cautioning that escalating regulations may fundamentally transform an industry he’s championed for many years.
During a recent appearance at Cannon Hall Farm, the Countryfile host discussed the evolving relationship between agriculture and digital platforms, light-heartedly remarking on farmers’ emergence as internet personalities.
In conversation with farmers Robert and Dave Nicholson, Adam observed: “You got your faces out there on Facebook on TikTok and on YouTube. You’re influencers. Soon you’ll be in a boxing ring, boxing famous people,” he said.
Rob challenged this characterisation, firmly stating: “When someone says influencer though, don’t you think ‘I’m not an influencer I’m a farmer.’ I always think, the day you call yourself an influencer is possibly the day not to be one.”
While Adam acknowledged this perspective, he redirected the discussion towards more pressing anxieties about contemporary farming practices and visitor engagement.
Recounting advice from his late father, he revealed: “Yeah, absolutely. Interestingly, my dad said the day we have to put animals behind glass is the day we close.”
He went on to emphasise the growing importance of safety protocols on agricultural holdings, especially where members of the public are present.
“We’re all very conscious of health and safety, hygiene, zoonotic diseases that pass from animals to people, and we have hand washing facilities. I think that’s great that we’re so professional and careful around that,” he noted.
Nevertheless, Henson was firm about where he draws the line. “But the day that we’re not allowed to handle a chick, or stroke a rabbit, or bottle feed a lamb, for me, that’s the end of it.”
Rob recognised the need for balance, remarking: “Do it, but make sure we observe first-class protocol.”
Henson replied: “Absolutely! And I think that’s where professional organizations like you, and I like to think us, really lead the way.”
Adam, aged 60, has remained one of the most familiar personalities in British agriculture since joining Countryfile in 2001. Over the years, he’s established himself as a trusted voice interpreting countryside matters for a wider audience, consistently covering topics including farming practices, environmental stewardship and food systems.
His television career has included programmes such as Countryfile Summer Diaries and Inside Out, alongside appearances on BBC Radio 4’s On Your Farm and Farming Today. He previously co-hosted Lambing Live with Kate Humble
Beyond television, Adam operates a working farm in Gloucestershire and remains actively involved with Cotswold Farm Park, a popular tourist attraction established by his late father, Joe Henson. The site specialises in preserving rare livestock breeds and educating visitors – values Adam remains committed to maintaining.
Though he maintains a prominent public presence, his family remains his top priority. He lives with his wife Charlie, while their two adult children, Alfie and Ella, have each pursued careers outside agriculture.
