History

Left to right Joy & Garry Stevenson & Pat Bentley (Syke House Alpacas)

Dr Sumar, One of the worlds most eminent Alpaca vets and international judge. Picture was taken when Dr Sumar gave a day course to owners and breeders in 2004 here at the Alpaca Centre

The Alpaca Centre

The Alpaca Centre opened in September 1997 and we believe it was the first of its kind in Europe, to present all things alpaca. Leading the development of alpaca farming in the UK, it soon became a centre for alpaca excellence and a popular attraction for visitors to the Lake District.

Advice, available nationally, was offered to prospective new owners and husbandry courses given by Pat Bentley of Syke House Alpacas. A farm-breeding programme to improve fibre quality was introduced together with stud services for visiting females.

In the summer of 2004 we were privileged to be visited by probably the world’s most eminent alpaca veterinary scientist, Dr. Julio Sumar from Peru, to give a talk to alpaca owners and vets in the area.

The Alpaca Centre continues to promote knowledge of the alpaca and the products  derived from its exceptional fibre. It is very much a family business run by Joy and daughter Katie Stevenson and great staff!