Some of the cattle at Ballyboley Dexters graze National Trust land at Orlock Point, just outside Bangor. The rest of the Alexander family’s pedigree Dexter herd graze near Greyabbey, on the shores of Strangford Lough in County Down. Dexters are a small, hardy native Irish breed. Stephen and Lorraine Alexander and their family move the herd round the farm according to when the wildflowers bloom and the birds are nesting. Since they changed how the land is farmed, frogs and newts have come back to the ponds, and otters and Irish hares are seen on the farm. The farm is Pasture for Life certified, meaning the cattle raised for its beef are fed entirely on grass and forage, without grain. Every animal sold as Ballyboley beef was born and reared on the farm, so the family knows its history from beginning to end. About ten years ago, the Alexanders decided to create their own market for the beef they produce. Today they sell direct to customers, and their rump steak won two stars at Great Taste in 2026. The family are also finalists in the 2026 BBC Food and Farming Awards. If you’d like to see where your beef comes from, they run occasional farm experiences at Orlock, including guided walks to meet the cattle and events featuring their own produce. Not many beef farms give you the chance to meet the herd before buying the beef. This one does.

Awards and Recognition

Finalist, BBC Food and Farming Awards 2026. Great Taste 2026, two stars, for the Ballyboley Dexters rump steak.

Social Media

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ballyboley_dexters/

Can people visit or buy direct?

Yes. Beef is available direct from Ballyboley Dexters, and the family hosts occasional organised farm experiences. Check dates and arrange purchases before travelling.

Website

https://www.ballyboleydexters.com/

Address Summary

Groomsport, Bangor, County Down