Building a multi-generational moorland legacy

Phil and Dawn Cleave began their journey at Higher Mill Leat in March 1989, securing a tenancy on 120 acres. Over the years, they gradually expanded, adding more parcels of tenanted land in 1995, 2000 and 2007. Much of the land comes with common grazing rights on Holne Moor and the Forest of Dartmoor, where they have participated in their respective Environment Agreements since 2000. “We graze cattle, sheep and a few Dartmoor ponies on both of these commons,” says Phil.

From the start, the farm has been a family affair. After college, son Tom returned home bringing energy and fresh ideas. He built a successful shearing business and later took on a Devon County Council holding under a Farm Business Tenancy.

“During that period, Tom also secured a larger holding next to our home farm,” explains Phil. In 2013, the family seized the chance to buy 130 acres at Higher Mill Leat itself, constructing new farm buildings and, later, a farmhouse, which became home in 2015.

The farm’s livestock system is grounded in tradition but constantly adapts to changing needs: “Our farm is based on suckler cows, many of which graze on the moor for most of the summer.”

The herd is primarily South Devon, with some Galloway bloodlines to ensure hardiness in the shoulder months. “Those not kept for breeding are put to Charolais and Limousin sires, which are well received in the store market.”

A stratified flock of sheep complements the cattle. “Some are hardy hill ewes, others are summer grazers—typical of what you’d expect here.” Lambs are finished and sold, with some going to Dartmoor Farmers Ltd, of which the family is a member.

Despite its traditional foundation, the farm integrates more modern methods to remain both environmentally responsible and economically viable. “Our approach is fairly traditional, but we use up-to-date methods to meet both conservation requirements and market needs.”

Community and collaboration are essential, especially when working on common land. “It’s important to be involved with local organisations and commoners’ groups,” Phil notes. “Commoning has to be collaborative. Farmers are often the only ones with practical experience of managing all the different interests on the common.”

Looking ahead, the family is focused on sustainability—in every sense of the word. “The hope is that over the next five to ten years, Tom and Anna will drive the business forward,” says Phil. “We’ll take on more of a supportive role and hopefully create opportunities for the next generation to stay involved, if they choose.”

The multi-generational nature of the farm has been central to its progress. “The business has developed as it is because it’s not just one generation,” says Dawn. “It keeps a younger, more modern perspective and doesn’t become stale. Having multiple generations working and growing up here gives us our goal.”

At Higher Mill Leat, the rhythm of the moor and the resilience of family go hand in hand. It’s not just about farming—it’s about stewardship, legacy and laying strong foundations for those who come next.

Image: (Cleave Family2)

Caption: Phil Cleave, Dawn Cleave, Tom Cleave and Anna Cleave