Real Work, Real Dirt, Real Joy
From Dawn to Dusk, Nature Leads the Way
What does a typical day look like at Faldonside Eco? There’s no such thing, really. But every morning starts with the same grounding principle: working with nature, not against it.
Nestled by the River Tweed near Melrose and Galashiels in the beautiful Scottish Borders, our estate is alive with activity — from the buzz of bees in the Walled Garden to the quiet rustle of otters in the reedbeds. Here’s a little glimpse into what a day might hold.
7:00am – A Quiet Start
The morning light catches the dew on the fields. Birds are already busy, and so are we. Early risers in the house might check on the polytunnels, open the chicken coops, or collect herbs for local deliveries. A flask of coffee and a few minutes watching the river often start the day right.
9:00am – Growing, Learning, Repairing
The team splits off into projects:
- In the Walled Garden, the day’s harvest begins — heritage lettuce, edible flowers, tomatoes, and seasonal greens.
- In the woodland, someone is checking camera traps or repairing a badger fence.
- In the Eco-Hub, a small group might be arriving for a mindfulness session or a nature workshop.
It’s purposeful, practical work — with a rhythm that follows the land.
12:30pm – A Shared Meal
Lunch is usually communal and always seasonal. Garden surplus finds its way onto the plate: maybe soup with garden herbs, or a frittata packed with fresh veg. We eat outdoors whenever possible — sometimes with volunteers or guests from our Learning programme.
2:00pm – Afternoon Projects
The afternoon might involve:
- Prepping beds for planting or spreading compost.
- Hosting a school forest education session.
- Planning upcoming training events.
- Meeting with local partners or suppliers.
We also spend time observing wildlife — not just because it’s beautiful, but because it tells us how the land is doing.
5:30pm – Down Tools, Up Spirits
Evenings are quieter. Animals are checked. Watering is finished. Tools are washed and hung. There’s often someone sketching or journalling, and sometimes a last wander along the river before nightfall.
It’s a full, nourishing, and grounded way to live and work. And best of all — it’s something we love sharing.
Want to get involved? Explore our Learning Experiences or Volunteer Opportunities to find your place in the rhythm of Faldonside Eco.
