Village-owned pub unveils New Wildflower Meadow to Support Nature and Community

The Jolly Farmer, a much-loved village-owned pub in The Cookham in Berkshire, created a new 110m² wildflower meadow, developed in partnership with Careers Springboard and Natural Shoots. This conservation initiative highlights the pub’s commitment to sustainability, biodiversity, and community engagement.

Before

Seeded on April 16th, the meadow features a vibrant blend of British wildflower seeds, including yellow rattle and a curated selection of annual and perennial wildflower seeds. This mixed wildflower seed mix was specifically chosen by experts at Natural Shoots to thrive in the chalk-based, well-drained soil of The Cookhams. Flowering began in early summer, with bursts of colour that will support pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and moths, whilst pits filled with rotten timber placed into the ground before seeding will support endangered species like stag beetles.

100+ brambles removed

The wildflower meadow doesn’t just benefit local wildlife — it also enhances the scenic charm of the garden and public footpath that runs through the pub grounds. Whether you're stopping by for a drink or passing through on a countryside walk, you’ll be greeted by a beautiful and ecologically rich landscape.

Volunteers from Careers Springboard, a local job seekers’ club, played a key role in sowing the seeds and preparing the land. Their involvement brought added value, providing hands-on experience, a connection to nature, and an opportunity to build confidence and teamwork skills.

With the support of Natural Shoots, a Berkshire-based specialist in landscape recovery and high-quality wildflower seeds, The Jolly Farmer selected seeds from the 2024 harvest, offering full supply chain traceability, high germination rates, and excellent purity.

This project will create a "stepping stone" of new meadow habitat whilst at the same time helping to attract new visitors to the pub and increase sales by aligning commercial and environmental goals.