Adam Henson has expressed fears that growing regulations could bring an end to interactive farming attractions, a sector he has championed for decades. The Countryfile presenter, 60, said strict safety measures may eventually prevent visitors from handling animals, which he believes would spell the end of such experiences.
Speaking during a visit to Cannon Hall Farm, Henson discussed the changing nature of farming with brothers Robert and Dave Nicholson, touching on the rise of farmers as social media personalities. He joked that the pair, who are active on Facebook, TikTok and YouTube, could soon be boxing celebrities, though Rob Nicholson dismissed the influencer label, insisting he is simply a farmer.
Henson then turned to a more serious concern, recalling advice from his late father, Joe Henson: "My dad said the day we have to put animals behind glass is the day we close." He acknowledged the importance of health and safety, hygiene and protection against zoonotic diseases, and praised the professionalism of modern farms. However, he warned: "But the day that we're not allowed to handle a chick, or stroke a rabbit, or bottle feed a lamb, for me, that's the end of it."
Rob Nicholson agreed on the need for balance, saying: "Do it, but make sure we observe first-class protocol." Henson responded that professional organisations like Cannon Hall Farm and his own Cotswold Farm Park lead the way in responsible visitor engagement.
Henson, who joined Countryfile in 2001, has become one of Britain's most recognisable farming figures. He manages a working farm in Gloucestershire and remains closely involved with Cotswold Farm Park, the visitor attraction founded by his father, which focuses on rare breed preservation and education. His children, Alfie and Ella, have chosen careers outside agriculture.
