Introduction
Adam Henson is one of the most recognised figures in British farming and countryside broadcasting. His name has become synonymous with rural life, heritage breeds and agricultural education. While many people know him through television, his journey began long before the cameras arrived. Adam Henson represents the perfect blend of a traditional farmer and a modern public communicator, using his platform to inform, inspire and bring countryside issues into the mainstream. This combination of practical knowledge and media skill is what sets him apart and makes him a respected voice in the agricultural world.
His career is filled with both positive achievements and the natural challenges that come with farming and public work. The life he built is rooted in authenticity and real experience, not just entertainment. His success is not accidental—it comes from lifelong dedication to farming, conservation and community education.
Quick Bio
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Adam John Lincoln Henson |
| Date of Birth | 8 January 1966 |
| Age | 59 years (as of 2025) |
| Birthplace | Bemborough Farm, Gloucestershire, England |
| Nationality | British / English |
| Profession | Farmer, TV Presenter, Author |
| Known For | BBC’s Countryfile, Rare Breed Conservation |
| Children | Two |
| Father | Joe Henson |
| Accent | English (Cotswolds) |
Adam Henson’s Early Life and Roots
Growing Up on a Traditional Farm
Adam Henson was born and raised on Bemborough Farm in Gloucestershire, a landscape rich in agricultural tradition and natural beauty. His childhood revolved around farming routines, livestock care and understanding the land. Being surrounded by rare breeds from an early age shaped his lifelong passion for agricultural heritage and conservation. His father, Joe Henson, was a well-known figure in British farming, and his influence played a major role in Adam’s early development.
Growing up in a family that valued farming education and preservation meant Adam learned responsibilities early. His experiences were practical, hands-on and deeply connected to rural life. This connection became the foundation of his career and continues to influence his approach to media work, farming management and public outreach.
Education and Agricultural Training
Adam’s school years were spent at Cheltenham College and later Westwood’s Grammar School in Northleach. These institutions provided him with a strong academic background while he continued working on the family farm. His interest in agriculture wasn’t just a hobby—it became a passion that he wanted to develop further.
He pursued an HND in Agriculture at Seale-Hayne Agricultural College in Devon, where he deepened his understanding of farming theory and practice. After completing his studies, he travelled to Australia and New Zealand to gain more experience on international farms. This period expanded his knowledge of global agriculture and strengthened his skills before returning home to continue building the family’s farming legacy.
Start of Adam Henson’s Career
Returning to the Family Farm
After completing his agricultural education and overseas experience, Adam returned to Bemborough Farm to work alongside his father. The family managed both traditional farming operations and the Cotswold Farm Park, a pioneering visitor attraction founded to conserve rare livestock breeds. Adam quickly immersed himself in the practical side of farming, ranging from livestock care to land management and day-to-day farming operations.
His early adult career focused heavily on farming responsibilities, building business skills and continuing the conservation mission his father had started. These years strengthened his expertise and shaped him into a well-rounded farmer capable of balancing agricultural demands with public interaction.
Transition Into Media
Adam’s media career began in 2001 when he became one of the presenters on the BBC programme Countryfile. This opportunity allowed him to bring agricultural knowledge to a national audience. His natural communication skills, friendly personality and deep farming experience made him an ideal choice for educating viewers about rural life.
His early features focused on countryside issues, farming challenges and conservation topics. Over time, he became one of the most recognisable faces on the show. This transition from full-time farmer to public figure marks a major turning point in his career, helping him influence millions of viewers every week.
Complete Career Overview
Farming and Rare Breed Conservation
Farming remains at the heart of Adam Henson’s identity. He co-manages Bemborough Farm and plays a leading role in running the Cotswold Farm Park, a major educational attraction focused on preserving rare livestock breeds. His work in conservation is widely respected, as he continues to support endangered farm species and educate the public about sustainable agriculture.
Through hands-on leadership, Adam has helped the farm remain a key location for agricultural tourism. The Farm Park attracts visitors of all ages who are eager to learn about countryside life. His efforts have kept rare breeds alive and thriving, contributing significantly to rural conservation across the UK.
Television and Public Impact
Adam’s long-standing role on Countryfile has made him a trusted authority in the world of rural broadcasting. Over the years, he has covered farming issues, countryside management, seasonal challenges and stories related to rural communities. His approach is always clear, accessible and grounded in real experience.
In addition to Countryfile, Adam has appeared in other rural and farming-themed programmes. These appearances highlight his ability to communicate agricultural issues in a relatable way. His public influence extends beyond entertainment, helping shape public understanding of food production, animal welfare and countryside conservation.
Author and Agricultural Communicator
Adam is also a successful author, having written books about rural life, farming stories, personal experiences and agricultural heritage. His writing style is warm and educational, reflecting his desire to share the realities of farming and conservation with a wider audience. His books have helped strengthen his role as an agricultural communicator, bringing countryside topics into everyday homes.
Latest Work and Influence
Continued Presence on Countryfile
Adam remains one of the longest-serving presenters on Countryfile, continuing to bring fresh insight into the nationwide conversation on farming. His segments remain highly trusted because they reflect real-life experience rather than scripted commentary.
His ongoing involvement in rural broadcasting makes him a central figure in educating the public about modern farming challenges, climate issues and countryside preservation. His work contributes to greater agricultural awareness across the UK.
Farming, Family Life and Conservation
Alongside his television work, Adam continues managing Bemborough Farm and supporting conservation initiatives. His family plays an active role in farm operations, and he regularly participates in events that promote agricultural education. These efforts reinforce his commitment to preserving rural heritage and inspiring future generations of farmers.
Legacy and Long-Term Impact
Champion of British Farming
Adam Henson’s legacy is built on his lifelong dedication to agriculture. His work in rare breed conservation has helped protect valuable livestock genetics and maintain the diversity of farm animals in the UK. He has influenced countless people through his educational efforts, public speaking and storytelling.
His leadership at the Cotswold Farm Park continues to keep farming accessible and engaging for families, students and visitors. His impact is both practical and cultural, making him a respected ambassador for British farming.
Influence Through Media and Education
Through decades of television work, Adam has shaped public perspectives on countryside issues. His ability to bridge the gap between rural life and mainstream media makes him a unique figure in modern broadcasting. His legacy will continue through his books, his farm, his media presence and the conservation initiatives he supports.
Conclusion
Adam Henson’s journey from a Gloucestershire farm boy to a national agricultural figure demonstrates the power of passion, knowledge and authenticity. His lifelong connection to farming, combined with his communication skills, has allowed him to influence millions while preserving the traditions he values most. Through his work in television, conservation and farming education, Adam continues to make a lasting contribution to British rural life. His legacy is rooted in truth, experience and a genuine love for the countryside.
FAQs
1. Who is Adam Henson?
Adam Henson is a British farmer, author and television presenter best known for his long-running role on BBC’s Countryfile.
2. Where was Adam Henson born?
He was born on Bemborough Farm in Gloucestershire, England.
3. What is Adam Henson known for?
He is known for farming, rare breed conservation, and presenting rural topics on Countryfile.
4. How did Adam Henson start his career?
He began by working on his family farm before joining Countryfile in 2001.
5. What is Adam Henson’s profession?
He is a farmer, presenter and author specialising in countryside and agricultural education.
