Amanda Owen is not just a farmer — she’s a powerful symbol of resilience, simplicity, and rural life. Known across the UK as the “Yorkshire Shepherdess,” Amanda Owen has built a remarkable reputation through her work on the land, bestselling books, and popular TV shows. Her story captures the essence of what it means to live close to nature while raising a large family and managing a thriving farm in one of the most remote areas of England.
From City Life to Countryside Dreams
Amanda Owen was born in Huddersfield in 1974. Though she grew up in an urban setting, her love for animals and nature led her toward an unconventional path. Inspired by books and the TV series All Creatures Great and Small, Amanda made the bold decision to pursue farming — a journey that would take her deep into the Yorkshire Dales.
She didn’t inherit a farm or grow up with sheep. Her journey started from scratch, with a love for the land and an unshakeable determination to learn.
Ravenseat Farm: A Life Built by Hand
Today, Amanda Owen lives and works at Ravenseat Farm, a 2,000-acre hill farm in Swaledale, North Yorkshire. Nestled in the heart of the Dales, the farm is home to hundreds of sheep and other livestock.
Amanda and her (now ex-) husband Clive Owen raised nine children together, making their family life as remarkable as their work. Despite the tough terrain and unpredictable weather, Amanda has embraced the challenges with strength and grace. Her daily life includes feeding animals, fixing fences, guiding her children, and keeping the farm running smoothly.
A Natural on Screen: Amanda Owen’s Rise to Fame
Amanda Owen didn’t plan to become a television personality — but her authenticity made her a perfect fit for the screen. She gained fame through the Channel 5 series “Our Yorkshire Farm”, which gave viewers a heartfelt look at life on Ravenseat.
The show ran from 2018 to 2022 and was a huge success. It offered an honest portrayal of rural life — full of joy, hardship, and adventure — and turned Amanda Owen into a beloved household name.
In 2024, Amanda returned to TV with “Our Farm Next Door” on Channel 4, reuniting with Clive Owen to renovate a nearby property for their children’s future.
Author, Speaker, and Advocate for Farming Life
Beyond TV, Amanda Owen has made her mark as an author. Her books, including The Yorkshire Shepherdess, A Year in the Life of the Yorkshire Shepherdess, and Tales From the Farm, are widely read and appreciated. These works share her personal stories, insights into rural life, and the beauty of living in sync with nature.
She is also active on social media, where she regularly posts breathtaking photos of the Yorkshire landscape and her everyday life on the farm.
A New Chapter After Change
In 2022, Amanda and Clive Owen announced their separation after 22 years of marriage. Despite the personal shift, Amanda continued her work on the farm and stayed committed to her family and animals.
The couple has remained supportive of each other, especially in co-parenting their children and managing their shared responsibilities.
Why Amanda Owen’s Story Matters
Amanda Owen’s journey is more than just a story about sheep and stone walls. It’s about breaking expectations, following your passions, and finding beauty in the simple, hard-earned life. Her connection to nature, strong work ethic, and down-to-earth personality have inspired millions.
She proves that even in a high-tech world, there’s room for timeless values: family, hard work, and love for the land.
Final Thoughts
Amanda Owen has become a symbol of strength and authenticity. Whether through her farm life, her books, or her television appearances, she continues to connect with people from all walks of life. Her journey from city girl to the iconic Yorkshire Shepherdess is a reminder that with passion and persistence, extraordinary things are possible — even on a remote hill farm.