Inspirational Islanders: Paul Griffin, Briddlesford Farm

Nestled in the heart of the Isle of Wight countryside, Briddlesford Farm celebrates its centenary this year, having been in the hands of the Griffin family since 1923. Their herd of 140 pedigree Guernsey cattle produce unbeatable milk, cream and butter as well as a selection of distinctive farmhouse cheeses. Paul, alongside his wife Chris and sister Louise, run a popular café and shop on-site and supply all the milk for Wightlink’s cafés.

“The Isle of Wight has a piece of everything. From beautiful beaches to rolling hills, it has a fascinating history that includes shipbuilding and engineering and has been home to some of the world’s greatest innovators and inventors. Queen Victoria made it her home and the seat of power for the biggest empire that the world has ever seen, and our culture and artistic heritage is easily as important as anywhere that you can travel to. I am proud to be an Islander.

My favourite Island place, is my home – Briddlesford Farm, where our beloved Guernsey cows graze the land and form an iconic part of the Isle of Wight countryside.

My favourite beach is Yaverland. I love to take our dogs there for a run with the other dogs and a swim in the surf. It is beautiful on a summer evening with the dramatic cliffs behind you.

Other than the beach, I love to go for a walk along the Tennyson Trail. The West Wight on a good day is breathtaking, and I have often said that there is nowhere else in the world you could find a better view.

My favourite Island event is the Royal Isle of Wight County Show in July. It is a showcase for the best in Isle of Wight food, farming, crafts, and rural entertainment and is a ‘right rural’ day out for all the family, plus you can meet some of our cows there too!

If I only had an hour, I would spend it relaxing, wining, and dining at The Terrace in Ventnor. The word ‘amazing’ is often overused, but in this case, the hotel’s owner and chef Tom Fahey really does serve the most amazing, creative, and original food using Isle of Wight produce at a stunning location overlooking Ventnor Beach.”

🛈 Paul starred in Channel 5’s Isle of Wight: Jewel of the South series.