BALQUHADLY FARM in Angus is now on the market, selling through Savills on behalf of the Executors for the late Bill Short.

Balquhadly lies in an attractive private spot at the foot of the Angus Glens, overlooking the Vale of Strathmore between Forfar and Brechin, close to the site of this weekend's 2019 International Sheep Dog Trials at Shandford, Fern.

The 353 acre farm is a compact self-contained livestock unit, with a good balance of arable ground for feed and straw production and hill ground for summer grazing. Both sport and conservation have been important there in the past. Much has been done to improve the natural habitat of both wildlife and birdlife across the farm. The number of lapwings, curlews and oyster catchers on the hill have increased significantly in recent years.

Savills suggests that there is also scope to enhance the sporting potential over Balquhadly. Until very recently about 500 pheasants were put down each season and provided about six days shooting. Duck and geese are attracted to three flighting ponds in the winter months which lie on the hill.

The farm buildings at Balquhadly comprise part of the original stone steading and have been adapted to merge with modern additions and purpose-built sheds.

The land accompanying the farmhouse and farm buildings is made up of 138 arable acres, 176 acres permanent pasture and 30 acres grazing and woodland. The land is classified as being predominantly Class 3(2) by the James Hutton Institute for Soil Research, with the top hill field being Class 4(1).

The average field size – excluding the open hill and rough grazing – is 15 acres, which is ideal for the rotation of stock and production of silage.

The current farming system is based around the production of beef cattle from a spring calving suckler herd. At capacity, the farm is capable of stocking 100 suckler cows and 300 sheep.

Savills Evelyn Channing is handling the sale. She commented: “Despite the challenges currently facing the livestock industry in Scotland, we anticipate interest from both existing livestock and arable farmers alike who may recognise the opportunity to expand or diversify their businesses. The indications are that future support in the agricultural industry is likely to be linked to environmental payments and in that regard Balquhadly may be particularly well placed to benefit. The farm is also likely to appeal to lifestyle buyers, given the relatively easy access to the A90 and the glorious setting which the farm enjoys.”

The farm is on the market for offers over £985,000.