We recently took mini on a trip to visit Cockfields Farm, I had been dying to take her because her favorite books at the moment are That's not my cow and That's not my chic, so i was hoping to let her see some real life ones.
The farm is located on the Ashton-Oldham border, and it was an hour travel time getting there for us via public transport. With wonderful weather, this was no problem at all. It was really easy to find, and the 17 minute walk from the bus stop, was actually really nice. Living in the city, it's not everyday we get to see such amazing views of hills and farms.
Arriving at the farm, we were one of the first there so it was nice and quiet. Staff greeted us warmly and scanned our QR code tickets. They let us know of times for events through the day, and in we went.
When you arrive you enter via the cafe. There is a role play village, which features mini shops and schools etc for the little ones to run around and play with. Nyla had fun being let loose here. With this being inside the cafe, i imagine it's great for parents who want a little kid break coffee, and they can safely play insight.
Stepping outside back into the sunshine, we headed straight for the meerkats. I had no idea that you would have these on a farm, and they are one of my favourites. It was lovely to see them all in an open enclosure. There was even a viewing window so that little ones could see them without being picked up.
The first animals in the barn we met were the sheep and goats. Nyla was a little unsure at first, as it was so loud in here, but she seemed interested enough. The goats were climbing on things and begging for attention and food. This farm allows you to purchase food for the animals and hand feed them yourself. We chose not to do this, as Nyla is so young and would likely eat the food herself, or be a little scared of the animals. One of the goats even climbed under the fence and was walking around free.
On the other side of the barn, there were a pair of alpacas and in the corner, and a pair of Reindeer. Myself and Dominic had never seen Reindeers before either, but Nyla was fascinated. She kept pointing to go back to them, and when i asked if she wanted to go look at some of the other animals, she shook her head. She felt a little differently when they were both walking around, but i would say these were by far her favourite in the farm. It was actually amazing seeing them, although they looked different to how i expected due to losing their coats for summer. We were told by one of the staff that they had actually gotten out overnight and trashed the place. Naughty Reindeers!
On the way out of the barn, was a reptile house. Dominic was especially looking forward to this part, because we read online there was a python. Unfortunately it had decided to hide and we only caught a little glimpse of it. We did however get to see some giant tortoises, who were *ahem* in the mood, rats, lizards, and Nyla got to stroke a hedgehog.
Back outside, we headed round the corner and had a look at the birds. There were all sorts from chickens, turkeys, and some funky looking other types of bird.
Following the path along we went to the duck pond, which had little placards on the fence the whole stretch with little duck facts which were interesting. There were also donkeys and horses in the fields. We stopped here to admire the view of the hills and animals and have a little fruit break at one of the benches.
Right around the duck pond, there was a tractor which did regular rides throughout the day, We unfortunately missed the first one so said we would head back for the next.
We headed back inside to see what was on the menu for lunch. There was a wide choice from sandwiches, to hot food including burgers and pizzas. They also had a kids menu which came with a drink, slushes, ice cream and a selection of cakes. We got a hot dog meal, burger meal, slice of cake and chicken nugget meal for Nyla. The food was tasty and there were plenty of spaces for us to sit. The facilities were clean, and the staff were polite. The prices of drinks was expensive however, costing us £1.60 for a can of drink.
After lunch, we headed back over for the tractor ride. It has a wagon attached to sit in, and took us round the other side of the farm, where we met some Llamas and found the cow (who people said looked pregnant so we may have to pop back and see the baby cow when it arrives.).
Next to the tractor ride, was a goat race. Yes, you read that right, goat racing! This was something we had to see. There were 4 goats and everyone got to pick a colour (they had bandanas around their necks), and get a lottery ticket. At the start of the race, one of the farmers had a bucket of food. He began to run, with the goats all chasing him. Unfortunately for me, my blue goat, decided to stay in the paddock but run still, which made him disqualified. This was still hilarious to see, and something you really do not see every day at all. The kids found it hilarious and adults enjoyed it to.
Back round the barn, there was a beach area full of sand for the kids to enjoy. Nyla loved this. She had never played with sand before, and we left her free to walk around and dig in it as much as she wanted. There were some tears when we took her away.
Behind this there was a mole hill field and also a playground for the kids to enjoy.
Right next to the entrance back inside, there was a cuddle corner. Here there were rabbits, guinea pigs and more, which at certain times of the day, you could come in and have a stroke and a hold of them. Again this is something we didn't do due to Nylas age.
Going through a different entrance to get inside, there was a mechanical bull you could have a go of, as well as diggers kids could have a play with and another sand pit.
There really was so much to do!
We had an amazing time at this farm, and i would 100% recommend it. Nyla loved every minute of it (and had an amazing nap after) and me and dad enjoyed it to. I would say it is suitable for all ages, and especially on a nice day like we caught, a really fun family day out.
Tickets cost £13 per adult and children and £3 for under 1s. They run events throughout the year such as Christmas events and other themes, and they also do parties.
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