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The history of tullynessle deer farm
Tullynessle Deer Farm
Willie and Janet - the owners
Willie and Janet - the owners
Willie and Janet - the owners
Willie and Janet - the owners
Willie and Janet - the owners
Deer (spot the odd one!)
Willie and Janet - the owners
Deer (spot the odd one!)
Tullynessle Deer Farm: A Legacy Rooted in the Land, Guided by Sustainability
Nestled in the serene landscapes of rural Aberdeenshire, Tullynessle Deer Farm is a shining example of sustainable farming, producing premium Scottish venison with an emphasis on animal welfare and environmental harmony. Owners Janet and Willie, whose lives are deeply entwined with the local land and farming traditions, have transformed this once-neglected farm into a thriving enterprise that is both innovative and respectful of its roots.
A Family Connection Reclaimed
Willie’s connection to Tullynessle runs deep. His grandmother was born on the land, and his father attended Tullynessle school, walking from a nearby farm where he spent his early years in the 1920s. These memories stayed alive through family stories and Sunday drives to revisit the area. When the farm came on the market in 2013, a full decade earlier than Janet and Willie had planned, they decided to take a drive and see it for themselves.
“We were blown away by the beautiful, peaceful location,” recalls Janet. Despite its challenges—broken fencing, blocked drains, and fields overgrown with weeds—the couple was determined to make the farm their own. Along with their two sons, Calum and Duncan, they recognised the opportunity for a lifestyle change and embraced the hard work ahead.
For the first three years, they rented out the house and leased the land to a local farmer while exploring what they wanted to produce. After a feasibility study supported by the Scottish Government, the couple made a bold decision: to raise red deer. By 2016, the first deer arrived, and in 2019, Janet and Willie sold their previous property to their son, moving permanently to Tullynessle to live on-site.
Sustainability at the Core
From the beginning, Tullynessle Deer Farm has embraced a sustainable, low-intervention approach to farming. Deer naturally require minimal handling, with less than two days of management needed per year. Their winter metabolism slows in harmony with the seasonal grass growth, reducing feed requirements and enhancing sustainability. The farm’s practices also eliminate the need for antibiotics or routine wormers, ensuring ethical and environmentally friendly operations.
“We’ve never had to call out a vet for a sick animal,” Janet proudly shares. “Deer are graceful, healthy, and incredibly resilient.”
Overcoming Challenges with Innovation
Despite the farm’s success, challenges arose in August 2024 when a disruption in the supply chain highlighted the vulnerabilities of Scotland’s deer farming infrastructure. Like many other deer farms, Tullynessle relied on Dovecote Park in Pontefract, the only UK abattoir processing farmed deer for retailers like Waitrose and M&S. A sudden scheduling delay left the farm unable to process its prime stock during peak months, straining resources and leaving them with 40 extra animals to sustain through winter.
Rather than accept this limitation, Janet and Willie pivoted. They invested in on-farm slaughter facilities with guidance from Food Standards Scotland and local environmental health officers. This decision not only ensured the continuity of their operations but allowed them to offer direct sales, bringing fresh, locally sourced venison straight to their community.
Building a Community Legacy
Janet and Willie’s journey from the Aberdeen oil industry to sustainable farming in Tullynessle is a testament to their commitment to the land, their heritage, and their community. Through events like the Aberdeen Provenance Festival and farm visits, they’re sharing their passion for venison and raising awareness of its health benefits and sustainability.
“We want people to understand the value of this native meat,” they say. “It’s not just about selling venison; it’s about celebrating local heritage and offering something truly exceptional.”
With their direct sales approach, Tullynessle Deer Farm is bridging the gap between farm and table, providing premium venison that is as nutritious as it is delicious. As Janet and Willie look to the future, they remain steadfast in their mission: to set new standards in sustainable farming while honouring the rich history of Tullynessle.
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