Farm parks have a magical way of bringing back childhood memories — from playing in the mud and petting billy goats, to trying (and failing) to milk a plastic cow. With spring in full swing and newborn lambs arriving, families are searching for fun, outdoor activities, with interest in farm experiences up 50% this week compared to earlier this month.
For parents planning half-term adventures, the experts at holidaycottages.co.uk have handpicked the best farm parks across the UK — perfect for educational and fun-filled family days out.
Cotswold Farm Park, Gloucestershire
Owned by TV presenter and farmer Adam Henson, Cotswold Farm Park focuses on the conservation of rare breeds, safeguarding over 50 native species. Visitors can meet Gloucestershire Old Spot pigs, Highland cattle, golden Guernsey goats, and Cotswold sheep.
Seasonal activities include lambing (which started on 13th February), interacting with animals in the Animal Barn, and following the Rare Breeds Trail. With more than 700,000 visitors each year, it’s a must-see for families.
Bocketts Farm Park, Surrey
Known as one of the UK’s top petting zoos, Bocketts Farm Park offers hands-on experiences with goats, pigs, llamas, rabbits, and over 50 lambs expected this week. Children can enjoy pony rides, indoor and outdoor play areas, tractor and trailer rides, and seasonal events including craft corners and live animal demonstrations.
Tattershall Farm Park, Lincoln
Open daily with extended peak-season hours, Tattershall Farm Park is an all-weather attraction for all ages. Visitors can meet alpacas, Highland cows, reptiles, and rare breeds like Lincoln Longwool sheep. Fun hands-on activities include goat walking, egg collecting, and bird of prey displays.
Play areas are extensive, with a giant outdoor sand zone, zip wire, trampolines, climbing wall, and a three-storey indoor soft play barn. Lambing and Easter events make it a year-round destination, and the park is offering a £5 entry deal until 22nd February.
Matlock Farm Park, Derbyshire
Matlock Farm Park is home to rare breed Swiss Valais lambs and fluffy chicks this half term. Families can meet goats, Highland cattle, meerkats, wallabies, and emus. Unique experiences include sheep and ferret racing, pony rides, and alpaca trekking.
Three outdoor play areas — including the Enchanted Hamlet, the UK’s largest jumping pillow, and the indoor Rainforest Play Barn — provide hours of entertainment, alongside riding lessons and scenic pony trekking.
Folly Farm Adventure Park and Zoo, South Wales
Voted Best Family Day Out in Wales, Folly Farm spans 120 acres of Pembrokeshire countryside, housing over 750 animals from 90+ species, including Wales’ only giraffes, lions, rhinos, and red pandas. Conservation efforts include breeding endangered species like the eastern black rhino.
Families can enjoy six play zones, from indoor climbing frames and soft play for toddlers to outdoor playgrounds like Pirate Adventure and a vintage fairground with 18 restored rides. Folly Farm has also been recognised twice as Disabled Access Welsh Venue of the Year.
Smithills Open Farm, Bolton
Smithills Open Farm is a family favourite, offering both classic farm animals and unique residents like meerkats, Burmese pythons, and skunks. Lambs, goats, piglets, and calves are ready for visitors this half term.
Adventure playgrounds, an inflatable assault course, donkey rides, tractor tours, and indoor play areas provide entertainment in any weather, while the on-site café serves homemade ice cream from the farm’s own cows.
Families wanting more farm park inspiration can explore holidaycottages.co.uk’s guide to UK farm parks.
Shannon Keary, Digital PR Manager at holidaycottages.co.uk, said:
“With the summer season upcoming, many families will want to make the most of the beautiful weather over the weekends – and a farm visit is the perfect way to do so. From learning about Britain’s farming history, experiencing the animals up close, to getting crafty, there is plenty of fun for all the family – even if the weather does take a turn.”
