Farmer Gows is a working farm near Faringdon, Oxfordshire which specialises in ‘hands on’ animal feeding and handling experiences. The farm rears livestock and some of their produce can be bought in the on site shop, including meat, freshly laid eggs and firewood. The shop also has lots of farm themed gifts and toys which make a lovely souvenir of your trip. Bro and I visited Farmer Gows on a week day during term time.
The daily program of farmer led activities at the farm includes chick handling, lamb and goat kid bottle feeding, pig and sheep feeding, egg collecting, as well as various play areas to explore and a tractor trailer ride around the farm.
The main barn is generally where the animal handling and feeding takes place. The feeding is organised using colour co-ordinated bottles for each lamb/goat kid. Hold on to your little ones when the animals are let loose as it can be quite chaotic! It is fun though and we loved getting to bottle feed the gorgeous little lambs. After the babies have had their turn the adult sheep, goats and pigs get their turn. They are hand fed pellet food. Throughout the feeding times the staff explain everything very well, although you do have to listen carefully as the barn can get quite noisy.
After feeding the animals we were able to go to the chicken coops and collect the eggs. I think its really important children understand where their food comes from, not just the supermarket shelf. Bro really enjoyed choosing his own egg from the laying box.
The other outdoor areas at Farmer Gows include a giant hay bale barn with hidden tunnels which the kids absolutely love. Next to it is the pedal tractor yard which is every tractor fan’s dream play area. One thing I will advise – wear wellies and old clothes. Even on the driest day your kids will get dirty here whether you like it or not, after all, it is a farm! They do have a shelf full of spare wellies to borrow but if you have your own then take them.
Next to the play areas are hand washing facilities and toilets. There are loads of picnic benches both outside and in the main barn to sit and eat your lunch. You can take your own picnic or alternatively there is a tea room with a small menu of refreshments. The food took a while to arrive as it’s all made fresh to order, however it was worth the wait.
In the afternoon we enjoyed a ride on the tractor trailer around the farm. The tractor took us up to the top field where the pigs are kept, where we were able to get off and feed them. WARNING: it is VERY muddy up there! Did I mention wearing wellies?! The tractor ride lasts approximately 30 minutes in total but does cost extra on top of your entry fee.
There are often special events at Farmer Gows and they generally hold a treasure hunt on the hay bales every day. Check their website or Facebook page for up to date details of whats on.
If you have a child who loves farm animals, tractors, etc then this is definitely the place for them. Personally I would say it’s ideal for children aged up to 8 years. Make sure you go prepared with suitable clothing and footwear in order to make the most of your day. Enjoy!
Facilities Checklist
- Toilets / Disabled Toilet Yes
- Pushchair / Wheelchair Friendly Barn area yes
- Dog Friendly No, assistance dogs only.
- Refreshments available Yes, hot and cold drinks, lunches, snacks
- Car Park Yes, free parking
- Gift Shop Yes
- Baby facilities Baby changing and high chairs
Address: Fernham Road, Longcot, Faringdon, SN7 7PR
Price Band: ££
Website: http://www.farmergows.co.uk/
Disclaimer: Farmer Gows have had no involvement in this review. All photos, words and opinions are that of my own 🙂
For more farm parks in Oxfordshire check out this blog post: Best Farm Parks In Oxfordshire And Beyond
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