The fourth generation of the Barkes family has taken on a leading role at Thorpe Farm Centre, near Barnard Castle, as 26-year-old Harvey Barkes steps into the family business.
Harvey has joined his parents in managing the site, which includes a farm shop, gift shop, restaurant, antiques centre, and holiday park. He will oversee daily operations while also shaping the future development of the business.
“I love developing Thorpe Farm year on year,” he said. “I want it to be a place where both locals and holidaymakers can experience farm life, appreciate the surrounding area, and benefit from everything we offer.”
The farm has been in the Barkes family since 1936, when it was purchased by Harvey’s great-grandfather, Percy. Initially a livestock farm, Thorpe Farm evolved under the leadership of Harvey’s father, Paul, who diversified the business in 2001 by opening a farm shop and café. However, the same year saw the outbreak of foot and mouth disease, which severely affected UK farming and ultimately influenced Paul and his wife Jo’s decision to expand their retail and hospitality operations.
In 2006, the business took another step forward with the launch of a caravan park. Harvey, then just eight years old, recalls the excitement of welcoming visitors to the farm.
“As kids, it was exciting seeing new people staying on the farm,” he said. “By the time I was 11, I was helping my dad expand the touring park, even in freezing conditions.”
Since then, the site has grown to include static caravans, seasonal pitches, and tent areas. The Courtyard shop and restaurant opened in 2018, expanding the original farm shop concept.
Harvey’s journey into the family business included studying at Barnard Castle School before completing a four-year Business with International Management degree, which included a placement at food production company Cranswick plc.
“At Cranswick, I saw the importance of processes and business structure,” he said. “That experience has really shaped how I approach development at Thorpe Farm.”
Graduating with a first-class degree in 2020, Harvey returned home at a time when the business was struggling under Covid-19 restrictions. With the site operating at reduced capacity, he and his girlfriend took the opportunity to travel across Sri Lanka, Thailand, Australia, and Southeast Asia.
Since returning to Teesdale in 2022, Harvey has focused on growing Thorpe Farm’s reputation. The Maize Maze has become a popular summer attraction, and plans are in place to expand wildlife areas and improve access to walking and cycling trails.
“I want Thorpe Farm to be as much a destination for local residents as it is for visitors,” he said. “We have a rich landscape, great facilities, and so much potential to grow.”
Reflecting on his role, he added: “Every day is different, but I love seeing ideas come to life. My family has put years of work into Thorpe Farm, and I want to build on that legacy.”
