One of the most amazing sights in the UK is seeing animals like sheep and cows out in the fields. That is especially true in beautiful areas like the Dales and Lake District. Sadly though, we are seeing a big decline in the number of sheep. We want to have a closer look here, then you can talk to us if you need products like animal feed, fertiliser, or even farm toys.

Huge changes

Before the foot and mouth outbreak in 2001, there were over 40 million sheep in the UK. Sadly, since then we have seen over two decades of ups and downs, but a general downward trend. Defra figures claim there were just 30.4 million sheep in 2025. This is the lowest level since the middle of the 20th century.

Crucially, national appetites for sheep meat, including lamb and mutton, have also changed dramatically. At one point they were immensely popular, with the average household buying 128g per capita, every week. By 2024, this number was down to just 23g. Mutton in particular has become much rarer.

Tougher farming conditions

While demand for sheep meat has fallen, prices have actually risen. However, things are still very difficult for farmers. The price of feed, including hay, has risen massively in recent years. Fuel prices mean higher costs too. Ultimately, many farms have had to change strategy and reduce herd sizes or switch to completely different types of farming.

The farming industry is also struggling with labour demands. The average age of farmers in Britain is 60. It’s a hard industry, especially keeping sheep. Something needs to change to protect the industry and attract more workers. This should include doing more to get children interested in agriculture. Farm toys and education could really help.

There are also concerns about the impact of trade deals. The UK has broader agreements with Australia and New Zealand. Crucially, they allow more lamb to enter Britain. It risks further hits to domestic production.

The loss of EU subsidies post-Brexit has also been a huge issue for farmers. In their place, the UK Government is pushing for more farming for nature to protect the environment. Some of these promote grazing cattle and ponies rather than sheep. A number of the new schemes have been criticised too, including complaints about accessibility.

What could we see in the future?

The biggest fear is sheep farming in the UK continues to decline. It could cost us one of our oldest industries and mean we no longer get to see herds on hillsides across Britain. However, more optimistic people are hoping we eventually see a balance, with traditional sheep farming and natural farming sitting side by side.

High quality farm toys and much more

JS Hubbuck Ltd has been working with British farmers for generations. We’re a family-run business committed to supplying great products and exemplary customer service.

You can rely on us for feeds, clothing, fertiliser, and much more. We even have farm toys. Plus, we have great relationships with other experts in the industry, helping to arrange things like custom feeding and housing systems. So, whatever you need for farming, speak to us.