We were very lucky to be invited to go Sheep Herding with farmer Becky at Farmcraft Experiences on Church Farm in Winsley last week.
We went with friends and I wasn’t sure what to expect from the kids to be honest, as they range from 2 to 4yrs, but they got stuck in. We learnt all about where wool comes from and what can be made from it, then had a play with some of the tools used in sheep farming. We fed some of the very friendly lambs who licked & tickled little hands. There wasn’t much uptake on the fancy dress offer surprisingly, apart from some headbands, maybe in cooler weather!
The best part was, of course, sheep herding! Under Becky’s careful instruction the children took on their role with gusto! They practiced farmer moves to guide the flock of sheep between goals, learnt how to manoeuvre them to jump over hurdles and in-between fences. Both sheep and children received congratulatory snacks. We also enjoyed picking (and eating) blackberries on the walk back to the farm.
The farm has a real family feel to it. Becky has a two year old herself and was a natural with the children. If you’ve seen my reels over on Instagram, you’ll see she even helped wheelbarrow my kids up to the sheep field! I have a real passion to encourage my children to immerse themselves in nature and it’s great to find activities nearby that nurture that.
There’s a real sense of flexibility to create a great day depending on what sort of group you are. Becky explained that they have corporate groups and hen do’s as well as children’s parties and school groups. There’s different activities you can choose from or mix and match.
Sheep Herding
Farm Olympics
Make a sheep arts and crafts
Farm themed birthday parties
Location. 10-15mins from Bath Map Church Farm, Winsley, Bradford-on-Avon BA15 2JH
Lunch. No facilities onsite but Hartley Farm is right next door and can offer different options such as a children’s lunchbox. The Seven Stars is a short walk from the farm.
More information. Head over to Farmcraft Experiences for full information, their FAQs page is really helpful.
Terrain. Buggy friendly but can be bumpy and get muddy
Toilets. There are toilet facilities onsite