Television presenter Matt Baker is returning to screens with a new project that expands on his rural franchise. The series, Our Barn in the Dales, premieres on More4 on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, at 9:00 PM. The show documents the extensive renovation required to transform historic farm buildings into a modern family home.
Returning to the Family Farm in County Durham
The series follows Matt, his wife Nicola, and his parents, Janice and Mike, as they renovate their 100-acre organic sheep farm. Located 1,000 feet up in the Durham Hills, the farm dates back to the 1600s. It remains a private family residence and is not open to the public.
Matt relocated his family from Hertfordshire to the farm following his mother’s severe accident in 2021. This series captures the next chapter of their lives, balancing personal milestones with the daily demands of running a working farm.
The Barn, Granary, and Stable Conversion
For nearly 20 years, Matt and Nicola have planned to convert the old barn, granary, and stable adjacent to the farmhouse into a habitable cottage. The project begins with the difficult task of clearing out decades of family history before structural work can commence.
The production highlights several immediate obstacles. The opening episode captures the family navigating harsh winter snow, the daily needs of their livestock, and a sheep rescue. Additionally, after his father, Mike, suffers a fall, Matt prioritizes building safer pathways around the property to accommodate his parents’ mobility needs.
Series Structure and Future Plans
More4 has commissioned Our Barn in the Dales as a two-part project:
- Series One (October 2026): Focuses on construction, structural conversions, and seasonal farming challenges.
- Series Two (Planned for 2027): Shifts focus to interior design, finishing touches, and the completion of the home.
Produced by Matt’s company, Big Circus Media, the show maintains the authentic, family-centric format of his previous work. Familiar farm animals, including donkeys, goats, and chickens, remain a central part of the programme.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does Our Barn in the Dales premiere?
The series premieres on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, at 9:00 PM on More4.
Where is Matt Baker’s farm located?
The 100-acre organic sheep farm is in the Durham Hills, part of the Durham Dales in County Durham. The property is private and not open to the public.
What is the main focus of the new series?
The series follows Matt and Nicola Baker as they convert an old barn, granary, and stable into a home while managing the challenges of rural life.
Who produces the show?
The series is produced by Matt Baker’s independent production company, Big Circus Media.
Will there be a second series?
Yes, a second series is scheduled for 2027, focusing on the final stages of the renovation and interior design.
