Last Updated on Wednesday, September 3, 2025 by Lavania Oluban
We swapped the city for sand, sun and serious family fun at Farmarama, the National Forest Adventure Farm’s epic summer event. It was bloody brilliant, like a little seaside holiday without the long car journey. I know I say that a lot about days out because we always like to make the most of things but this one was like a cake with a cherry on the top and sprinkles and a second helping!
If you’re wondering whether it’s worth the trip, here’s our full experience and what you can expect from this summer’s biggest family event in Staffordshire.
First Impressions, A Relaxed Start
We drove over from Birmingham (just over an hour) and arrived to a fairly quiet farm at 10am with the weather looking a bit overcast. Perfect excuse to pop into the soft play for a hot drink, download the app, and plan our day before the skies cleared.
It was actually really nice to ease into things instead of rushing straight into the action, the farm felt organised and welcoming right from the start.
The Beach Vibes: Sand, Pools & Deckchairs
When the sun peeked through, the kids couldn’t get changed fast enough. The beach area was so well done:
- Proper soft golden sand
- Plenty of deckchairs for parents
- Cute beach hut changing rooms
- Staff supervising the pools
- A little shop selling pool essentials (towels, goggles, water blasters) at decent prices
There are five giant paddling pools, and a smaller one for little ones. My two skipped along in their Crocs and were straight in. I stayed out of the splash zone with a cold drink and a good view – bliss!
Kids’ Highlights: Mega Slide, Foam Parties & More
Usually, the bouncing pillow in the play area is the kids’ top pick. But this time? The Mega Slide stole the show! We went for the unlimited wristbands so they could keep going back on… and I have to admit, it’s a bit of a thrill even for grown-ups!
The day ended with a foam party, which was hilarious. The energy, music and laughter honestly made it feel like we were on holiday somewhere much further away, and if I’m honest a bit like I was reliving my youth and freshers week experiences.
The New Wooden Assault Course: A Family Race!
The brand-new wooden assault course is tucked on the other side of the farm by the outdoor play areas. It’s packed with climbing obstacles and balance beams, perfect for little adventurers.
There’s loads of seating for parents, but honestly, we all ended up racing the kids around it. It’s fab for burning off more energy before the next activity!
Festival Vibes – Shows, Music & Flash Mobs
The whole day had a relaxed, holiday park vibe. Disney tunes blasting by the pools, animation team shows teaching the kids new dances, and even a surprise flash mob with Crumpet (the farm’s mascot) leading the Cha Cha Slide.
It was lively without feeling overwhelming, the kind of atmosphere that just makes everyone smile.
Food & Drink: BBQs, Pizza & Picnic Spots
There’s no shortage of food. You’ve got:
- The indoor café with good value options
- Pizza Hut filling the air with tempting smells
- The Texan BBQ Smokehouse – Lincoln had a burger and demolished it in minutes!
Even the chips were generous and delicious. Prices were reasonable for a day out, but you can also bring a picnic if you want.
Other Farm Favourites: Animals, Mazes & Chill Spots
In between all the beach fun, we loved exploring quieter corners:
- The kitchen garden
- The music maze
- Feeding animals in the meadows
- The chicken walk-through
- Barrel safari & tractor rides for calmer moments
It was a great mix of high-energy activities and little pockets of calm.
Value for Money – Is Farmarama Worth It?
Honestly, yes. At first glance, £19.95 a ticket feels pricey, but there is so much included that it easily fills a whole day. And if you visit before 9th August, you get a free return visit this summer, making it less than £10 a day. You’d pay that just for a swimming pool session these days!
Would We Recommend It?
Absolutely. Whether your kids love animals, splashing about in pools, or big slides and adventure play, Farmarama has it all. It’s perfect for families looking for a day that feels like a mini holiday without leaving the Midlands. It’s got enough to keep all ages happy, from the toddlers to the teens!
We’re already planning our return trip.
Plan Your Visit
Location; National Forest Adventure Farm, Tatenhill, Burton-on-Trent
Tickets: from £19.95 – book online: www.adventurefarm.co.uk
Farmarama runs daily throughout the six-week summer holidays
If you go before 9th August, you can return again for free during Farmarama – double the fun!
Disclaimer: we were invited along to experience the day at the farm however as always all views and opinions expressed are my own!
