The Ryeland breed is one of the oldest British breeds of sheep and, until recently, was classified as a rare breed.

Twelfth century monks in Herefordshire used to trade in Ryeland wool. Ryeland wool traded from Leominster was known as 'Lemster ore' for the amount of gold it earned.

Ryeland sheep got their name because they used to live on land covered in rye (a type of grain grown for bread).

Queen Elizabeth I (1558 - 1603) was presented with a pair of Ryeland wool stockings and was so pleased with them that she refused to wear anything other than clothes made of Ryeland wool. The Tudor and Stuarts used Ryeland wool extensively.

Where do Ryeland sheep come from?
The Ryeland probably descended from the Spanish Merino sheep imported into England by the Romans. Their home is Herefordshire, but they are now found all over the world.

Why do we keep Ryeland sheep?
Originally kept for their wool, but now also used for meat.

Average lifespan
7 - 9 years