ROSE CREEK SHEEP TOURS

They've been called the ‘cutest sheep in the world' and how could anyone disagree? With black faces and ears, long fluffy coats and wonky horns, the Walliser Schwarznasenschaf or Valais Blacknose sheep are a childrens' soft toy come to life.

Leigh-Anne and Andrew Peake have come a long way in a few years – as have their sheep. Their flocks began life as embryos created on the opposite side of the world, and after navigating a fair amount of red tape, they were able to import the would-be sheep and begin the breeding process. The first lambs arrived in mid-2018, and their flock has increased so much that they now offer sheep tours and are embarking on a natural breeding programme.

Leigh-Anne and Andrew began offering farm tours after their sheep stole Santa's thunder at the local Christmas parade. Rather than risk ending up on the naughty list, they decided to share their sheep with the public year-round. The tour takes about an hour, and visitors can cuddle the sheep to their heart's content. “These are basically the opposite of what sheep are meant to be,” says LeighAnne. “They're smoochy and come up for a nibble and rub as soon as they see you. They're the friendliest sheep imaginable”. Once they're snuggled out, guests can feed the two Gypsy Vanner horses a carrot or two, or in the spring, bottle feed one of the lambs.

Tours are by appointment and generally after 3pm, and can be booked via the Cambridge iSite. 021 803 918, on Facebook.