There’s something about spring that just feels like a reset. Maybe it’s the sunshine starting to peek through or the buzz of Easter holidays, but it always gets me in the mood for fresh air, animals and a bit of adventure. Last weekend we packed up the car and took a trip to Cotswold Farm Park, and it turned out to be exactly the kind of day we all needed.
It’s just over an hour’s drive from Birmingham, nestled in the Cotswold hills. We arrived early with a car full of cousins and snacks, ready for a proper spring day out. The kids were aged between 7 and 12 and they were all buzzing as soon as we pulled into the car park. There’s something about seeing fields full of animals and tractors that just sets the tone.
Lambing Season at Cotswold Farm Park
We visited during their Easter farm event, which runs alongside their live lambing season. It’s all included in your day ticket, and if you time it right, you might just see a lamb being born just like we did.
There’s a huge lambing barn with rows of pens, space to sit and listen, and a count board at the entrance so you can see how many lambs have been born that day. It’s run with the kind of calm organisation you wish all busy places had. When a birth is about to happen, they make an announcement over the tannoy. We happened to be walking past at the right time and caught the entire moment. It was such a lovely thing to share with the kids. The farmer explained everything through a microphone, and the layout of the barn meant we could all see without needing to crowd in.
After the birth, we stayed to listen to one of the live lambing talks. We learnt all about how the lambs are checked and monitored. They stay with their mum in a pen for a while to bond before heading out to a smaller field. There was also a section about lamb adoption. If a ewe can’t feed all of her lambs, maybe because she’s had triplets, the farmers step in and match the spare lamb with a ewe who’s only had one. That way, each lamb has a fair chance. One thing that stuck with me is that sheep give birth silently in the wild to avoid attracting predators. It’s those little facts that really bring it all to life for kids.
Cute Encounters and Farmyard Favourites
After the barn, we made our way to the Discovery Barn. This is where you’ll find all the tiny animals. Baby chicks, guinea pigs, rabbits — all of them available for a gentle stroke or cuddle. The kids were in their element here, especially with the chicks.
Then we took a wander along the Rare Breeds Trail. There are more than 50 breeds here, including some real stars like the Highland cattle and Golden Guernsey goats. The goats were especially friendly and made a beeline for anyone holding a feed bag. If you visit, definitely grab a bag of animal feed on your way in. It’s a game changer. Arlo was chuffed to bits when a goat licked his hand, and even the piglets out in the field were happy to trot over to say hello.
All About the Play
Let’s be honest. No farm day out is complete without some good old-fashioned playtime. The Adventure Barn has indoor options like ride-on tractors, a traversing wall, sand pits and soft play for little ones but it was the outdoor areas that the kids really loved.
There’s a giant bouncing pillow right next to a play area and loads of space to run about. The best part? It’s right by the ice cream parlour. We laid out our picnic here and it turned into a bit of a base camp for the afternoon. I could sip my cold drink and watch the Highland cows while the kids bounced themselves silly. We ended up circling back to this spot after walking the whole park. It was the perfect place to wind down before heading home.
Extra Easter Fun
Because it was the Easter farm event, there were a few extra touches dotted around. There’s a new mini trail (find the letters to spell out a word) based on the Julia Donaldson book “Gozzle”, which added a nice storytelling element as we explored the forest. You can swap your found word for a chocolate treat – it’s easy enough for all ages to complete. I actually paused to read the book which is a lovely new story from the author of the much loved Gruffalo. There was also a craft barn where you can get creative with different activities for a small fee. We opted for sand art and I couldn’t resist getting involved too.
The Build-a-Bear area is another highlight. Packed with Easter-themed farm animals and outfits, it’s worth a look if you’re after a special keepsake. It felt like such a nice way to round off the day, something a bit more personal than the usual soft toy from a gift shop.
Tips for Visiting
Here’s what I’d recommend if you’re planning a trip:
- Book your tickets online in advance. You save a couple of pounds per person on weekdays.
- Get there early to avoid queues and make the most of the quieter parts of the day.
- The ice cream is delicious!
- Don’t skip the live lambing talk – it’s genuinely interesting for all ages.
- Pack a picnic, but treat yourself to ice cream or something from The Ox Shed while you’re there.
- Pick up a bag of animal feed when you arrive.
- Allow at least four hours to explore the whole site
Already Planning to Go Back
Even after a full day, there were parts we didn’t get to. That’s the sign of a good place. I’ve already got it in my head to come back over summer and stay on-site. Cotswold Farm Park offers camping and glamping, and the thought of waking up with the animals and exploring at a slower pace sounds ideal. I always feel reluctant to leave the Cotswolds, and staying overnight would stretch out the magic a little longer.
Would I Recommend It?
Absolutely. Whether you’re local or visiting the area, this is such a wholesome way to spend a day. It’s ideal for families, especially if your kids are into animals or just love running around outdoors. With the added bonus of live lambing, Easter crafts and new trails, it’s the kind of experience that actually lives up to its promise.
We all had our own highlights. The kids said the bouncing pillow and goats were their favourites. Mine was seeing a lamb be born, right there in the moment. You don’t forget something like that in a hurry.
