On Sunday 7 June 2009, from 11:00 until 3:00pm, we will be opening our gates to the public for Open Farm Sunday 2009. The day offers visitors a unique opportunity to see and taste the countryside, and discover what lies beyond the farm gate. Entrance is free and there is plenty of parking. More...

Highlights of the day will include:

Farm walks – Come on a guided tour of parts of the farm and gardens not usually open to the public. It’s an opportunity to gain a real insight into the farm’s natural secrets, learn about what’s growing in the field and what it’s for, and find out the story behind the old railway and its bridge, the quarry and the farm buildings. The walks will take place every hour from 11:30 and last around 30 minutes.

Tractors – Ever wanted to sit in the driving seat of a mighty Claas combine? Now’s your chance. Other tractors and farm machinery, both old and new, big and small will be on display to explore and experience.

Local food – We’re firing up the barbecue and will be serving up some tasty venison sausages. Home-grown, free-range eggs, garden produce and other local fayre will also be on sale. Refreshments, including teas and tantalising home-made cakes will also be available.

The Wicklesham Nature Code – We’ve put together a tough task for the under-sixteens: look around the farm and you’ll find answers to a series of clues. Put it all together and you’ll crack the code and win a prize.

Picnic and explore – You’re welcome to come along on the day, spread out and enjoy exceptional views of some of Oxfordshire’s finest countryside. Feel free to bring your own food and explore the gardens, pond and some of the farm woodland. All we ask is that you take your litter home, respect the farm’s wildlife and keeps dogs (that are also welcome) under control at all times.

Other farms local to Faringdon are opening too, so why not make a day of it and explore some of our neighbours, especially if you’d like to meet some farm animals. There’s more information on the Open Farm Sunday website.

Open Farm Sunday is a national event, organised by LEAF (Linking Environment And Farming), with around 400 farms around the UK opening up to their local communities. LEAF is a national charity that helps farmers produce good quality food with care for the environment while working with their local community. For more information, visit the LEAF website.

Please note that Wicklesham Farm is a working environment. We’re making every effort to make sure Open Farm Sunday is enjoyable, safe and fun. But there will be natural hazards and no-go areas. Children must be supervised at all times and any notices or requests adhered to.