Adam Henson has outlined his plans for when his television career comes to an end, acknowledging that he may one day be "dropped in the bin" by the industry. The 60-year-old farmer, who joined BBC's Countryfile in 2001 following a nationwide search for presenters, remains deeply rooted in agriculture and tourism.
A Life Beyond the Screen
Since his debut on Countryfile, Henson has expanded his television presence, hosting shows such as Nigel and Adam's Farm Kitchen alongside Nigel Slater and appearing on BBC One's Inside Out. He is also a regular contributor to Radio 4 programmes including On Your Farm and Farming Today. However, his primary focus remains Bemborough Farm in Gloucestershire, which also operates as Cotswold Farm Park, a visitor attraction drawing over 70,000 guests annually.
Henson and his business partner Duncan took over the farm's lease in 1998 from his father, Joe. While his television work continues to thrive, Henson insists that farming defines his identity. Speaking on the Talking Farming podcast, he stated: "I love being a farmer. I think that day that telly drop me in the bin and I stop doing that, we've still got our tourist enterprise and we're still connecting with the consumer and with the general public. Farmer will always be on my passport."
Future Retirement Plans
Henson has previously revealed that he has considered stepping away from farming when his tenancy expires. He currently resides on the expansive 650-hectare property with his wife, Charlie. However, he is contemplating a move to a bungalow in his later years, as both of his children have chosen careers outside of agriculture. Speaking to the Daily Express, he explained: "While I was pulling on my wellies and chasing my dad out of the door to join him on the farm, my own children aren't interested in a career in farming."
He acknowledged their skills but noted their different paths: "Sure, they can lamb a sheep and drive a tractor, but my daughter lives in Perth as an events organiser and my son is a financial advisor in Leeds." Looking ahead, he shared: "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."
Embracing the Countryside
Henson expressed his desire to remain in the rural environment, adding: "It will be the end of an era, but I will still be able to enjoy the lovely countryside." He often feels fortunate to live in the Cotswolds, remarking on the Talking Farming podcast: "It is really gorgeous. These sort of rolling Cotswolds hills, particularly on a morning when it's crisp and clear and frosty and the mist is rising up from the valleys. It is absolutely gorgeous. I sometimes have to pinch myself and think how lucky I am living here."
Henson returns to television screens with Countryfile on Sunday at 5.15pm, where he will welcome a new rare-breed pig to his farm.
