City Farms – Urban Retreats for Families in Summer

By Anne Coates

Vauxhall City Farm

Two days before her own first birthday, my daughter Olivia and I went with a group to Vauxhall City Farm to celebrate another child's first birthday. Last year we continued the tradition by taking Lizzie there for her first birthday and we've visited this brilliant place numerous times in between with my older granddaughter, Harriet.

Vauxhall City Farm, a wonderful green area, just south of the river Thames, is free to enter but donations are very welcome. The staff and volunteers are incredibly friendly and knowledgable and there is a range of farm animals, birds and little furry creatures to meet. The goats were a great favourite as you can buy food to feed them.

There are hand washing stations available, toilets with baby changing facilities, buggy parking, a café with outdoor tables. The farm shop has a range of books, toys, jewellery, greeting cards, as well as bespoke items made from their very own Alpaca’s wool.

Open 10.30 am to 4pm closed Mondays. Groups of ten or more need to book and pay a fee.

Vauxhall City Farm 165 Tyers Street, London SE11 5HS

Here are some other City Farms around the UK – not an extensive list so do check if there's one near you. Many offer facilities to hold children's parties if you're looking for a venue.

Bath

Bath City Farm, Kelston View, Whiteway, BA2 1NW

01225 481 269