Our Story
The Rayner family has been farming in Colnbrook since the 16th Century, reportedly in the reign of Elizabeth I. In 1945, the family purchased Berkyn Manor Farm and Manor House, together with 60 acres of land (the site of Berkyn Manor was also home to the famous poet John Milton and his parents from 1632 to 1638). In 1954, J Rayner & Sons Ltd was founded from the original farming partnership.
Today, J Rayner & Sons Ltd farms over a large area from Guildford in the south, Henley on Thames in the west, Gerrards Cross in the north and Upminster in Essex in the east, with a distance of 128 km from one end to another.
The total area of J Rayner & Sons Ltd tenanted land is 283.47 Ha (700.45 acres).
Today
The farm has changed a lot over the years - from growing vegetables to sell in Covent Garden, to going fully arable then doing a mixture of arable and contract work, expanding in size, and now doing event and film work as well. We are happy and proud to say that by the 16th generation, we can take on any challenge that comes our way.
The next generation of farmers is all-female, with the current head having triplets, who are already involved in the day-to-day running. We are excited for the future and to see how they continue to grow and develop the business.