BBC Countryfile presenter Adam Henson has delivered a strikingly honest assessment of the demanding challenges he faces while managing his dual roles in television and agriculture. The 60-year-old star, who has been a fixture on the popular rural affairs programme since 2001, opened up about the gruelling schedule required to maintain both careers simultaneously.
The Exhausting Reality of Juggling Television and Farming
In a revealing interview on the FarmED podcast recorded in December, Henson detailed the physical and mental toll of his recent commitments. He explained how filming Countryfile's Christmas special in Cornwall required significant time away from his primary responsibilities at Bemborough Farm in Gloucestershire.
"This week I've driven to Cornwall and done our Christmas special, which is on Sunday," Henson shared. "That was really exciting, a really fun thing to do, but I was away from the farm and got back at 10 o'clock at night. The following day we had a board meeting discussing our strategy for Cotswolds Farm Park next year, and I'm not fully prepared for that."
Maintaining Business Operations During Absences
The Countryfile star acknowledged his fatigue and mental preoccupation following the Cornwall trip, but emphasised the crucial support system that enables his dual career path. Henson revealed his business philosophy centres on surrounding himself with capable professionals who complement his own skills.
"Thankfully for me and my business partner, who is a fantastic guy, my mantra in life has been to surround myself with people who compliment my own skills and are better at things than I am," Henson explained.
He specifically praised business partner Duncan Andrews for being "fantastic at numbers and spreadsheets and strategy," while noting they employ a chief executive who manages day-to-day farm operations. This delegation allows Henson to pursue television work while maintaining confidence in the farm's management.
The Agricultural Enterprise Behind the Television Personality
Henson and Andrews assumed the lease of Bemborough Farm from Adam's father Joe in 1998, transforming it into both a working agricultural business and the popular Cotswolds Farm Park tourist attraction. The enterprise cultivates wheat, spring barley, and oilseed rape while maintaining a commercial flock of approximately 350 ewes.
The farm park welcomes thousands of visitors annually, creating additional managerial responsibilities alongside the core farming operations. This dual-purpose setup requires careful coordination, particularly when Henson's television commitments take him away from the property.
Future Plans and Changing Priorities
Looking ahead, Henson disclosed significant changes planned for when his current tenancy expires in approximately twelve years. With his children showing no interest in continuing the farming tradition, he and wife Charlie plan to downsize to a bungalow near Winchcombe.
"So when the tenancy runs out in 12 years' time, Charlie and I are moving to a bungalow close by in Winchcombe, where we have a few acres and will keep a few sheep and the dogs," Henson revealed. "It will be the end of an era, but I will still be able to enjoy the lovely countryside."
A Television Career Rooted in Rural Life
Henson's television journey began in 2001 when he secured the Countryfile presenter role following an extensive nationwide search. Beyond his flagship programme, he has presented numerous rural affairs shows including Inside Out and Nigel and Adam's Farm Kitchen, establishing himself as one of British television's most recognisable farming voices.
Viewers can see Henson back on their screens from 6pm on BBC One, where he will be preparing his Exmoor ponies, foals, and donkeys for the coming months. His candid revelations provide rare insight into the substantial behind-the-scenes effort required to maintain both a television career and substantial agricultural business, highlighting the complex balancing act faced by those working across these demanding sectors.
