Free access vs guided robotic milking: Which system is right for your dairy farm?

For UK dairy farmers considering a move from a parlour to robots, one of the first decisions is whether to run a free access or guided system but what are the pros and cons of each?

clock • 6 min read
Farmers moving from a parlour to a milking robot should consider long-term feeding strategy, forage potential and labour availability.
Image:

Farmers moving from a parlour to a milking robot should consider long-term feeding strategy, forage potential and labour availability.

About 80% of UK robotic systems are designed for free access says independent adviser Gareth Jones, of Robotic Milking Systems. He explains that free access systems allow cows to move freely between...

To continue reading...

Already a member? Login for full access.

Login

New to Farmers Guardian? Register for 1 free article per week or become a member for unlimited access to essential farming news and insights.

article-img-580x358
Register for free Join Now

 

More on Dairy

Shropshire dairy farm sees calf health boost after tackling bovine coronavirus
Dairy

Shropshire dairy farm sees calf health boost after tackling bovine coronavirus

A dairy farmer in Shropshire has reported significant improvements in calf health and survival after identifying bovine coronavirus in his herd and taking targeted action

Katie Fallon
Katie Fallon
clock 17 June 2026 • 5 min read
Transition cow management: Getting dry period nutrition right
Dairy

Transition cow management: Getting dry period nutrition right

Nutrition can help with many of the key challenges associated with the dry period. However, for long-term success it is important to get the basics right first and then build upwards towards the best nutritional approach

Dairy Farmer
clock 15 June 2026 • 5 min read
Why feeding method is important for calves: The role of the oesophageal groove
Dairy

Why feeding method is important for calves: The role of the oesophageal groove

Getting colostrum into calves quickly is crucial but getting it to the right place is what counts

Dairy Farmer
clock 13 June 2026 • 4 min read