Farm scoops support for gelato venture

A FAMILY-run farm based tourist destination in Castle Douglas has launched a new gelato venture, using milk from its own herd of pedigree Holstein cows.

Ernespie Farm Centre, led by the McMiken family, has been a working farm for generations but in recent years has diversified into tourism to secure its long-term future.

It is now a popular destination for visitors across Dumfries and Galloway, offering a farm-to-fork restaurant, gift shop, as well as indoor and outdoor play.

In April the family opened ‘The Gelato Hut’, offering 18 flavours and warm bubble waffles. Specialist equipment enables the team to transform their own milk into delicious, creamy gelato, all produced on-site.

The expansion into gelato production helps to reduce food miles for visitors and secures local employment. There are also plans underway to supply their gelato to local businesses.

As well as the milk being used in the gelato, all the beef served in their Farmhouse Kitchen restaurant comes from their own cattle.

They are grateful to the advice, support and funding from Business Gateway

David McMiken, director at Ernespie, said: “Diversification has been key to future-proofing our farm. Launching the gelateria has allowed us to make the most of what we produce here on the farm and offer something unique for our visitors.

“Business Gateway’s support with funding was invaluable - we simply couldn’t have made this level of investment without it. It’s exciting to now see our gelato being enjoyed on-site and by the wider community.”

Gail Macgregor, chair of Business Gateway board, said: “The team at Ernespie Farm has been incredibly proactive in adapting the business and finding new opportunities for growth. The gelateria is a fantastic addition that not only strengthens the farm park offering but also creates new employment and sustainability benefits for the local area. “It’s a great example of diversification done well and Business Gateway is proud to have supported the project.”