Roots, Rare Breeds, and a Passion for the Forest

Written by Laura - Owner of Hockey’s Farm

Welcome to our Farm

For us, Hockey’s Farm isn’t just a business; it’s home. Having both grown up attending school in Ringwood, the farm - originally established by Philip Hockey and his family in the 1980s - was a place we knew and loved long before it became our life’s work.

Our journey began with a simple shared passion: a love for exceptional food, a commitment to local produce, and a deep-seated desire to be part of the beautiful New Forest community.

The Journey to Now

In 2013, alongside my parents and with the support of an ethical loan from Triodos Bank, we took the leap and bought Hockey’s. With Jonny’s extensive background in the retail food industry and a refined palate for fine foods, we saw an opportunity to evolve the farm. What was once predominantly a butchery shop has blossomed into a destination that celebrates the very best of local farming.

Thirteen years later, we are still going from strength to strength. We’ve turned the business around, scooped up numerous awards, and stayed true to our mission of supporting local producers. In 2024, as my parents moved toward a well-deserved retirement in Lyndhurst, we renewed our partnership with Triodos to take on the entire business ourselves. We are proud to keep the Hockey’s legacy moving forward with a clear vision for the future.

Award-Winning Farming

Our farming journey truly found its heart with our British Lop pigs. What started in 2014 as a small herd (with plenty of help from my nephew, Jack) has grown into a prestigious breeding programme.

We take immense pride in our rare breeds, and the critics seem to agree as our Rare Breed Lop shoulder joint recently earned a 3 Star Gold Award from the Guild of Fine Food*.

Meet the Residents: Beyond the farm gate, we are home to a beloved menagerie of rescue animals. From donkeys and alpacas to pygmy goats, budgies, and even roaming cats, our "farm family" is a highlight for visitors of all ages.

More Than Just a Farm Shop

Whether you are here to talk provenance with our skilled butchers, learn about our animals, or meet a local producer, we’ve designed Hockey’s to be a place of discovery.

• The Shop: Packed with local gems and fine foods, plus The Vinery for home gifts and quaint finds.

• The Cafe: A relaxing spot to slow down and enjoy the tastes of the Forest.

• The Experience: A place to shop, visit, and learn.

A Legacy for the Next Generation

A business that began with the Hockey family in the 80s is now welcoming its fourth generation. Our son, Dom, has injected fresh energy into our daily operations, and our grandchildren who attend school in Fordingbridge love nothing more than spending time with the animals.

We believe that no business can stand still; it must always look to the future. With our family at the helm and our community by our side, that is exactly what we plan to do.

Please enjoy the farm as much as we do.

— Laura & Jonny