Life at Walnut Tree Farm

The story, mainly in pictures, but also in words, of the rebuilding of the 16th-century Suffolk farmhouse that the environmentalist Roger Deakin lived in from the early 1970s until his death in 2006.

Format: Hardback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 02 May 2019
Publisher: Head of Zeus

In 1970, Roger Deakin embarked on a remarkable journey by acquiring Walnut Tree Farm, a semi-ruined Elizabethan farmhouse nestled deep within the picturesque countryside of northern Suffolk, on the outskirts of Mellis Green. The once-grand estate had fallen into disrepair, with its thatched roof beams rotting, pigs and hens being its last inhabitants, and the floors ankle-deep in filth. Driven by a fervent desire to reconnect with nature, Deakin left the bustling city of London behind and purchased the farm with a spirit of "back to the land" enthusiasm. Over the ensuing decades, he lovingly restored the property, breathing new life into its dilapidated structures. Deakin resided at Walnut Tree Farm until his passing in 2006, dedicating his time to nurturing the land. He swam daily in the moat, planted woods, and expanded the surrounding fields, cultivating hay and wildflowers.

Walnut Tree Farm quickly gained recognition as a pilgrimage site and a source of inspiration for nature enthusiasts, writers, intellectuals, and artists alike. Deakin's seminal work, "Waterlog," a captivating masterpiece of nature writing, not only celebrated the joys of swimming in natural waters but also sparked a widespread movement for wild swimming. Rufus Deakin and Titus Rowlandson have collaborated to create a visually stunning and meticulously designed record of Deakin's rural paradise. Through a series of photographs taken by Deakin himself, the book captures the rebuilding process of Walnut Tree Farm, showcasing the unique character of this remarkable building. It also provides a captivating portrayal of the seasonal cycle of nature in the surrounding land and countryside, showcasing the beauty and resilience of the natural world.

Walnut Tree Farm stands as a testament to Roger Deakin's unwavering dedication to nature and his vision of creating a harmonious connection between humans and the natural world. His legacy continues to inspire and encourage individuals to embrace the wonders of the outdoors and to appreciate the importance of preserving and nurturing our environment.

Weight: 746g
Dimension: 193 x 186 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781788547819