Shabden Park Farm, SurreyHome of Banham Sheepdogs
The Farm and the Land
Shabden Park Farm sits within the rolling hills of the North Downs in southeast England in the valley of the Shabden Valley. This working farm spans over 250 acres of chalk grassland, pasture and woodland, offering ideal terrain for grazing sheep and training working sheepdogs.
Over decades the land has been managed to support both functional farming and wildlife conservation. The farm is home to flocks of sheep grazing across open downland fields, mixed woodland corridors and chalk meadows. Each June the meadows bloom into a vibrant tapestry of wildflowers, illustrating the success of low‑input sustainable grazing and habitat restoration.
Meet Mark Banham
Experience & Passion
My name is Mark Banham. I have spent over 50 years working the land with sheep, livestock and working dogs. In 1989 I began farming independently with a flock of 300 ewes. In 1994 I took on the tenancy of Shabden Park Farm. Here the farm and I have grown together.
Since 1986 I have competed in sheepdog trials, and over time I have developed my own kennels dedicated to training and breeding working sheepdogs. I have supplied trained dogs and puppies to new homes in countries such as Japan, the USA and across Europe.
As a judge for sheepdog trials, I have officiated in competitions throughout the UK, Europe and North America. I also run regular one‑to‑one sessions, group clinics and a monthly Sheepdog Club at the farm, and travel internationally to share knowledge and expertise with other handlers.
A Rich Heritage: From Ancient Valleys to Modern Farm
The Shabden Valley holds centuries of history. Archaeological evidence indicates that hunter‑gatherers worked flint tools on this land between 9,000 and 4,300 years ago. Over time the valley has supported generations of sheep farming and habitation.
The recorded history begins in 1263 when Alured de Shepindon built the first manor house at the heart of what is now Shabden Park. In 1870 the manor was rebuilt in French Renaissance style, and at that time the farm cottage was added. In 1936 the estate was acquired by Surrey County Council after the former owner’s estate was sold. The estate had previously been used as a shooting ground and had welcomed distinguished guests.
In 1994 the farm returned to agricultural use under my tenancy. Since then the valley has gradually transformed through sustainable farming and conscientious grazing. Where once the land supported traditional sheep farming the valley is now a sanctuary where farming, heritage and conservation coexist.
Farming, Conservation & Wildlife
Shabden Park Farm demonstrates that working agriculture and environmental stewardship can go hand in hand. Through careful sheep grazing and low‑input farming, the chalk grassland and meadows have been nurtured back to life. The result is a landscape rich in biodiversity, offering habitat to wildflowers, insects, birds and native flora and fauna typical of restored downland and pasture ecosystems.
Each summer the wildflower meadows offer a vivid display of native species, especially in June. The woodland corridors linking fields and plantations support wildlife movement across the valley, making the farm a haven for both livestock and wildlife.
Across the valley
Hunting
Manor House
Working the Land
Sheepdog Training, Breeding & Sales
At Banham Sheepdogs we specialise in working and trial‑ready sheepdogs. From puppies through to fully trained dogs, each dog is bred, trained and handled with expertise and care. Our aim is to match each dog’s temperament, training level and potential with the needs of its handler, whether for farming, livestock management or trial competition.
We offer:
- One‑to‑one training sessions for focused, personalised development.
- Group clinics and a monthly Sheepdog Club where handlers and dogs can learn together, observe others, and share feedback.
- Fully trained working dogs, part‑trained dogs and puppies available for sale.
If you are looking for a loyal and capable working dog, get in touch, and we can discuss your needs and whether one of our dogs would be the right partner for you.
Events and Community – Shabfest Continental Sheepdog Trial
Each year, Shabden Park Farm hosts Shabfest — a flagship continental-style sheepdog trial that brings together top handlers and their dogs from across Europe. The trial runs over four days in June. The green hills and woodlands of the North Downs provide the perfect natural arena for competition and celebration of the working dog tradition.
Shabfest combines heritage, sport and community, making it a highlight in the sheepdog calendar for competitors and spectators alike. Full event details, entry information and registration are available on our dedicated events page.
Get Involved – Join, Visit or Enquire
If you are interested in training, buying a working sheepdog, joining the Sheepdog Club or attending our events you are welcome to contact us. Whether you are experienced or new to working dogs, we aim to support you and your dog on every step of the journey.
Contact Details
Address: Shabden Park Farm, High Road, Chipstead, Surrey, CR5 3SF
Phone: 01737 552744
Email: info@banhamsheepdogs.co.uk
(If you want to learn more about our dogs, sign up for training or join a clinic, get in touch, and we will discuss what you need.)