Kirk's Cockerels arrive at the start of September as day-old chicks. They are initially housed in large, spacious barns, bedded with dust-free shavings and provided with plenty of natural light and ventilation. Heat lamps keep them warm during their first few weeks of life. Their diet contains at least 70% home-grown cereals and is free from artificial additives and growth promoters.
As they mature, our cockerels are separated according to how they are reared. Our Traditional Cockerels are raised in light, airy barns, while our Free Range Cockerels enjoy roaming the grassy paddocks surrounding the farm, making the most of the fresh air and beautiful Leicestershire countryside. Each evening they are safely housed in their barns, protected from foxes and bedded on home-grown straw, with straw bales provided for pecking and roosting. Every morning they are let back out into the paddocks to explore and enjoy the food provided for them.
The difference between a farm-reared Christmas cockerel and an intensively reared chicken is significant. Kirk's Cockerels are slow-grown and allowed to mature naturally over approximately 130 days, compared with around 38 days for a typical supermarket chicken. This slower growth allows the birds to develop more flavour and lay down natural fat, resulting in succulent, tender meat with exceptional taste. Our cockerels can reach an impressive 6.3kg (14lb), making them a perfect centrepiece for a festive celebration.
Our cockerels are available to order from October via our website, by email or by telephone. They are available in sizes ranging from 3.6kg (8lb) to 6.3kg (14lb) and are supplied oven-ready with giblets in a clear polythene bag. For an added touch of luxury, our Free Range Cockerels are presented in a bespoke box.
Orders can be collected from the farm on 22nd 9:00am to 4:00pm and 23rd December 7:00am to 6:00pm, although earlier or later collection dates can be arranged by prior agreement.
If you need help choosing the right size, please visit our Size Guide and Prices page for advice and recommendations.
For those looking for an alternative to the traditional Christmas turkey, a Kirk's Cockerel offers something a little different, delivering outstanding flavour, succulent meat and a memorable festive meal for family and friends. 🎄