We are open for Business Again. Come and see Lambing time on the Farm
Cowdray Model Farm
Cowdray Model Farm is situated in the Ancient Parkland at Cowdray Park in rural Midhurst, West Sussex. Sitting in the heart of the South Downs National Park the farm allows children to come and learn more about how their food is produced and experience the sheer joy of being in the countryside.
The farm is open to the public at weekends and bank holidays between Easter and October from 10.00am – 4pm (last entry 3.30pm) and is available to host school and group visits during the week by appointment. We are also open to the public during the school holidays.
Farm tours commence at 11.15, 1.15pm and 3.15pm
What's going on down on the Farm...
We have had a lovely early spring which has enabled us to get everything ready for the new season including live lambing. We have our new poly tunnel and lambing pens which will allow people to see the delights of new born lambs up close. We have also added some new play equipment which includes a zip wire. We also have a new permaculture plot which is growing a multitude of fruit plants and trees. We will have a new petting and touching area which will allow children to touch and feed the baby lambs
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Farming in action
Cowdray Model Farm consists of 35 acres and demonstrates the farming cycle for livestock and arable crops as well as a pond and conservation area. The work on the farm is continuous, so there is always something to see and to learn about on the farm. |
The Model Farm hosts the lambing of the farm’s main flock during April. Come and see the expectant mothers ready to give birth and experience the joy of seeing newly born lambs frolicking in the paddocks.
During the spring months, vegetables and other crops
are planted, wild flowers emerge around the field edges and hedgerows and the lambs begin to arrive, to be seen leaping together across the fields. |
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Dairy cows are grazed on the farm and children can see them being milked during their visit. The life of the dairy cow will be explained in detail, and the children will see how their milk makes the journey from the field to the fridge.
In addition, children will see and learn about beef cattle, chickens, pigs, ponies and other livestock on the farm. Animal welfare is central to our farming and there is a strong emphasis on the day to day care of the animals and their overall well-being.
We have 3 very friendly Eriskay ponies on the farm. These ponies are a rare breed originally from the Western isles of Scotland. We have a mother and foal called Nonie and Padraig, and Ishca who is just over two years old.
There is a new play area, with a sandpit, seesaw, wooden castle and our zip wire. Have a go on our barrel train - there is no extra charge for this.
All the livestock and arable farming is under the organic discipline. This means that no artificial chemicals are used on the soil, or enter the feed of the animals. Neither are any additives or antibiotics routinely administered to the animals. |
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The children will be asked questions to check their understanding of the information and to ensure they are engaged in the learning. The aim is to stimulate their imagination and curiosity.
The learning process
A farm visit provides an opportunity for practical experience of a specific aspect of the curriculum. Mathematics, ICT, geography and many other subjects can be woven into a farm visit.
We welcome a pre visit by teachers to discuss the areas of focus for a particular class. Activities can encompass field study and data collection, drawing, photography and quizzes, to mention just a few.
Every opportunity can be taken to bring the children into close proximity with nature to stimulate their minds. The farming equipment is also a source of learning. A variety of implements and tractors offer a basis for learning about machinery and other technology and historically related subjects.
For younger children the ability to go beyond sight and sound, and to touch and smell the things they are seeing - from lambs to wheat ears - adds extra depth to their experience.
From farming to food
Harvesting turns attention to the next step of the food chain - processing and going to market. During their visit, children will learn about all the steps in the food chain and the relationship between farming and food will be emphasised.
The Cowdray Farm Shop & Cafe, alongside the farm, offers an opportunity for children to see where the produce from the farm is marketed to the consumer.
The fact that the produce can be bought brings home to the children that their food does come from the land and reinforces the learning for the day.
Admission:
Adult £5
Concessions £4
Children £4
Family (2 adults & up to 3 children) £15
Season tickets: £75 family, £30 adult, £10 concessions, £25 child
Weekday visits for registered local groups and schools are free. Book group visits in advance. Please email or telephone for details.
Access arrangements: This is a working farm and surfaces vary. Most of the site is wheelchair accessible and a tour can be made in our small transporter by arrangement. There is an adapted toilet. Parking for disabled people is available near the entrance to the farm.
Refreshments: Picnics are welcome on our picnic benches or on the grass in the designated picnic area. No food or drink should be consumed on the farm itself. Cowdray Farm Shop & Café has a wide selection of food and refreshments. Picnic hampers can be pre-ordered – call 01730 815040
Health and Safety
We take Health and Safety very seriously. Some animals can carry diseases harmful to humans. Please ensure that you follow the safety instructions. You must wash hands thoroughly before leaving the farm. Pregnant women should take extra care around the farm.
The farm is just over an hour from London, Brighton and Southampton and there is plenty of parking for coaches.
Contact us for more information or for bookings:
01730 812089
enquiries@cowdraymodelfarm.co.uk
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