For around 800 years, from medieval times to the 18^th century, the Manor of Harting was known for its private parks containing both red and fallow deer in landscape parkland. Ownership of such deer parks was a symbol of high social standing, with the Lords of Harting owning three for much of this period.

The local deer parks were especially reputable. According to A History of Harting, published in 1876, the Duke of Richmond and three succeeding Bishops of Chichester declared Harting deer to be ‘the best venison in the world’.

Today, Sky Park Farm lies just across the road from one of the original Harting deer parks. Remains of the banks and ditches made to enclose the deer can still be seen and earthworks mark the site of its hunting lodge.

Husband and wife team Pierce and Victoria Noonan bought Sky Park Farm in 2016. They took ownership of a dilapidated 75-acre farm that had been neglected for many years. 

This was actually a blessing in disguise, as features that may have fallen victim to farming practices during this time remained untouched. These include stretches of magnificent oak trees and a section of railway embankment dating back to the days when steam trains chuffed between Petersfield and Midhurst.

The new owners aim to revive the ancient tradition of red deer in Harting, inviting visitors to experience life on a working farm. Unlike the medieval Lords of Harting, however, who presented gifts of venison to their aristocratic friends, the venison will now be available to all... at our butchers.