With so many different breeds to choose from, going to see the birds is the best way to decide which are the best for you
Before taking the plunge and getting some hens, it is a good idea to go and look at the breed, or breeds, you are interested in.
There are plenty of places around the country where you can see beautiful birds. There are dedicated centres such as the Traditional Breeds Centre, near Crediton in Devon, and the Domestic Fowl Trust and Honeybourne Rare Breeds Centre at Evesham in Worcestershire.
There is also a huge number of shows around the country, from the smallest local ones up to the huge National Poultry Show, which is held at Stoneleigh Agricultural Centre in Warwickshire every November.
Over coming months, chicken breeder and poultry judge Grant Brereton will be writing about some of the many places where you can go to see – and buy – a staggering variety of hens.
