Gorse Hill City Farm
Discover the Charm of Gorse Hill City Farm, located in the heart of Leicester, Gorse Hill City Farm offers a unique escape from urban life, providing an immersive rural experience for visitors of all ages. Established in 1985, this working farm is a beloved community hub where people can connect with nature and learn about agriculture.
The farm is home to a variety of animals, including cows, pigs, sheep, goats, chickens, ducks, and rabbits, housed in environments that reflect their natural habitats. Interactive activities such as feeding sessions and seasonal events like lambing season and harvest festivals ensure a fun and educational experience for everyone. The farm also offers educational programs for schools, families, and community groups that cover topics like animal care, agriculture, and environmental conservation.
Activities at Gorse Hill City Farm include:
- City Farm Park
- Meet the Animals
- Afternnon Tea
We have also included their opening times and contact details. If you have any questions, you can contact the venue directly.
Facilities
Activities available in this location
Open Times
Contact
Leicester
Leicestershire
LE4 0FJ
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City Farm Park
Age Appropriate
- Children
- Teenagers
- Adults
Location
- Outdoor
At Gorse Hill City Farm, visitors can enjoy a range of interactive activities. Feeding sessions allow guests to hand-feed friendly goats and sheep, providing an up-close experience with the animals. The farm hosts seasonal events such as lambing season in the spring, where visitors can witness the birth of lambs and learn about their care. Harvest festivals in the autumn celebrate the bounty of the farm with activities like apple pressing, pumpkin carving, and hayrides. These events offer unique opportunities to experience the farm's annual cycles and celebrate agricultural traditions.
Educational Programs Gorse Hill City Farm is dedicated to education and sustainability, offering a variety of educational programs tailored for schools, families, and community groups. School visits provide hands-on learning experiences aligned with the national curriculum, covering subjects like science, geography, and environmental studies. Family workshops offer interactive sessions on topics such as gardening, animal care, and sustainable living, encouraging participants to engage with nature and develop new skills. Community outreach programs aim to educate and inspire local groups, fostering a sense of connection and stewardship towards the environment.
Community Engagement and Volunteering Supporting the community is central to Gorse Hill City Farm’s mission. As a registered charity, the farm relies on donations and volunteers to maintain its operations and continue offering valuable services. Volunteer opportunities abound, ranging from animal care and gardening to event assistance and educational program support. Volunteering at the farm provides a rewarding experience, allowing individuals to give back to the community while gaining valuable skills and making new friends. The farm’s commitment to community engagement ensures that it remains a vibrant and vital resource for Leicester.
Farm Shop and Café No visit to Gorse Hill City Farm is complete without a stop at the farm shop and café. The farm shop offers a selection of fresh produce, free-range eggs, and handmade crafts, all sourced from the farm or local suppliers. Visitors can take home a piece of the farm, knowing that their purchases support the farm's mission and operations. The café provides a cozy spot to relax and enjoy a meal or snack. With a menu featuring homemade soups, sandwiches, and cakes, as well as hot and cold beverages, the café is the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploration. The outdoor seating area offers picturesque views of the farm, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely lunch.
Plan Your Visit Gorse Hill City Farm is open year-round, with varying hours depending on the season. Admission fees are modest, with discounts available for families, seniors, and group bookings. Annual memberships are also available, offering unlimited visits and additional perks. With its accessible location, welcoming atmosphere, and diverse range of activities, Gorse Hill City Farm is a must-visit destination in Leicester. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor to the city, the farm promises a memorable and enriching experience filled with fun, discovery, and a deeper appreciation for the countryside. For more information, visit Gorse Hill City Farm.
Meet the Animals
Age Appropriate
- Children
- Teenagers
- Adults
Location
- Outdoor
Although we are located in the bustling city of Leicester, Gorse Hill City Farm boasts an impressively large plot of land. This generous space sets us apart from many other city farms, allowing us to create an environment that feels positively sprawling and natural. Thanks to our expansive grounds, we are able to home a wide variety of animals—over 100 in total—for you to meet and interact with. Most of our friendly residents love to be fed and welcome the attention of our visitors.
A Haven for Rare Breeds Gorse Hill City Farm is proud to be a Rare Breed Survival Trust (RBST) approved city farm, making us the only such site in the East Midlands and one of just three in the entire Midlands region. This prestigious approval underscores our commitment to the conservation and care of rare and native breeds. Our farm is currently home to several unique species, including Manx Loaghtan sheep, Shetland cattle, Middle White pigs, Aylesbury ducks, and Golden Guernsey goats. These animals not only add to the diversity of our farm but also play a crucial role in preserving genetic heritage and biodiversity.
Up Close and Personal Animal Encounters When you visit Gorse Hill City Farm, you'll want to get as close to our animals as possible. One of the best ways to do this is by purchasing animal feed, available for just £1 per bag. Feeding our animals is a delightful experience that guarantees memorable interactions with our furry and feathered friends.
For an even more intimate encounter, consider booking a "Meet the Small Animal Session." These sessions provide an excellent opportunity to get up close and personal with the smaller residents of the farm, such as rabbits, guinea pigs, and chickens. During these interactive sessions, you can learn more about these adorable creatures, their habits, and their care.
Plan Your Visit Gorse Hill City Farm offers a welcoming and educational experience for visitors of all ages. With our expansive grounds, diverse range of animals, and commitment to rare breed conservation, we provide a unique and enriching environment that stands out among city farms. Whether you’re looking to feed our friendly animals, learn about rare breeds, or simply enjoy a day in a rural setting, our farm has something for everyone. For more information on planning your visit and the activities we offer, visit our website. We look forward to welcoming you to Gorse Hill City Farm!