City Farms in London
When you think of central London, the first thing you'll probably think of is a concrete jungle, packed with busy people - but did you know it's also inhabited by farmyard animals? Despite a reputation as a bustling metropolis, London houses a number of unique urban farms and petting zoos that make for a perfect escape from capital life.
Farms in London
When living in central London, farmyard animals and the comforts of country life can feel like a world away. Sheep, cows, pigs, and other charming animals are closer than you think, however - you just need to know where to look. Read on to discover the best farms in London, great for solo trips, a romantic date, or as a day out with friends and family.
Hackney City Farm
Best known for its thriving nightlife and incredible food, Hackney is also home to the well-loved Hackney City Farm. Free to visit, this petting zoo gives city-goers a taste of country life in the Capital. Owned and led by the community, it’s a great place for people to come together. You can even give back to the local area and help the animals with unique volunteering opportunities. Fun for all the family, the urban farm offers insightful educational workshops like animal handling, where students get to work one-on-one with adorable animals like donkeys, goats, and sheep.
Kentish Town City Farm
Founded in 1972 and based in the heart of Camden, charity-based Kentish Town City Farm is the oldest and first animal farm in London. The site runs a “growing club” where you can learn the ropes of gardening. Visitors can also take horse riding lessons, and those looking for animal volunteering London opportunities can sign up to aid with activities in the city farm’s yard and garden. General farm access is available throughout the week for those who just want to see the animals and admire the greenery.
Spitalfields City Farm
The nearest farm to London City’s square mile, Spitalfields City Farm was established back in 1978 to meet a rising demand for allotments. Since then, the local farm has grown to feature an exciting collection of animals with loveable personalities. Meet Holmes, a sociable pig who enjoys a back rub, or Gilbert and Sullivan, a vocal pair of donkeys that love to run the show. One of the best petting farms in London, Spitalfields City Farm is the perfect place to unwind.
Vauxhall City Farm
In 1976, a group of architects began working on a small plot of land they would cultivate to eventually become Jubilee City Farm. Nowadays, the farm houses over 100 animals. Appropriately renamed Vauxhall City Farm after the local area, this cosy retreat sits in the backyard of her Majesty’s secret service - MI6. Close to Big Ben and Parliament too, this is one of the best farms in London for anyone looking to meet and pet farmyard animals.
Freightliners Farm
Experience a local, working, and urban farm in the centre of Islington. Free to visitors, Freightliners City Farm aims to make a difference. The community farm might be small, but by no means is it uneventful. There are frequent activities and events on offer for people of all ages and backgrounds, making it the perfect place to escape the stress of everyday life.
Mudchute Church & Farm
With 32 beautiful acres of countryside on the Isle of Dogs, Mudchute Church & Farm is an East London working farm that provides various educational opportunities. Visitors can also book unique events and experiences, including BBQs, summer and festive Christmas parties. There’s even a murder mystery evening. As far as petting farms go, Mudchute Church & Farm is a bit different. Take your pick from the many wonderfully weird animals, such as the resident turkeys or loveable llamas.
Farms Near London
Further afield, you can find an assortment of the best farms near London. While located just outside the city, they are well worth the journey. Discover mystical worlds, watch birds of prey in action, and experience the excitement of pig racing with some of our favourite farms. Why not go with friends and take a Zipcar to get there?
Bocketts Farm
Opened way back in 1992, Bocketts Farm was founded by Jane and James Gowing who arrived from the Orkney isles to build what would become a locally renowned farm. Their journey from the isles to the mainland and the establishment of the farm is a fantastic family story that helped mould their ethos. This family-friendly working farm is open all year round, and you can witness its transformation for famous seasonal celebrations, such as the spooky Witches and Wizards week over Halloween. You can even meet Father Christmas during the festive period. Finally, you won’t want to miss out on the farm’s signature event - pig racing. Throughout the year, Bocketts Farm hosts legendary races where you can cheer your favourites on.
Standalone Farm
Boasting a whopping 125 acres, Standalone Farm is just a short car ride from central London. There’s plenty to do at the Hertfordshire farm, including remarkable demonstrations from birds of prey. Why not embark on the woodland trail and see where this scenic route takes you? Standalone Farm is also a fantastic petting farm. Encounter beautiful animals like Cilla and Sue, the popular Kune Kune pigs. These small yet boisterous fellows originate from New Zealand. In the Maori language, “Kune Kune” actually means “fat and round.” If that isn’t enough, the farm is also home to friendly Alpacas who will surely make your day.
Godstone Farm
Rain or shine, there’s always something to do at Godstone Farm. This family-orientated getaway provides a soft play area and an enormous adventure playground to keep the little ones entertained. On top of this, their petting farm includes Shetland ponies and meerkats. Godstone Farm even offers a safe bee experience for those over eight years old. Put on your adventure caps and traverse the wilderness on a dinosaur discovery trail. Just watch out for “ROAR,” the aptly named, terrifying T-Rex! Make sure to pre-book tickets as the farm is always busy - especially during school holiday seasons.
Hobbledown Heath
Featuring one of the largest indoor play areas in South England, Hobbledown Heath is a city farm with a twist. This local farm features four magical villages, each with a different theme and story to tell. Kids can explore Wilderness Woods, Mining Village, Cribble Creek, and Buckbridge market. They can also encounter a group of unique animals such as festive reindeer, tropical aviary and laid-back lemurs. For the teenagers, mums, or dads looking for something with a bit more of a thrill, Hobbledown Heath’s sister site, “Gripped,” offers an exhilarating adventure experience with high ropes and zip lines.
One of the biggest challenges for a Londoner travelling further afield is transport. With Zipcar, you can get to a London city farm on the very same day and at an affordable rate. Rent a car for yourself and your family, or pool together with friends. There’s no insurance or maintenance to worry about - we handle that for you. Find your next ride with Zipcar.
