Burton Echo's very own, Tom Drysdale joined Burton Radio's Harry Parker on a mission to explore the National Forest Adventure Farm. Intrigued by the farm's exciting events, they set off to investigate.

By Tom Drysdale

From Maize Maze to Family Fun

Harry and I arrived at the farm's welcoming offices, where we were greeted by Ellie, operations manager. The National Forest Adventure Farm, which began in 2004 as a simple maize maze and fun field, has blossomed since its official Adventure Farm launch in 2011. Now, it hosts year-round events, from the Easter Eggstravaganza and Farmarama to Screamfest for Halloween and the North Pole Adventure at Christmas.

Half-Term Highlights: Lambing Live

This February half-term, the farm's main attractions are live lambing and lamb feeding. Visitors can bottle-feed adorable baby lambs – all 60 of them! – and witness the miracle of birth firsthand. Will, a farmer on-site, explained that they are lambing 120 sheep this year, offering a unique, immersive experience. For those who can't make it in person, the lambing is also streamed live on YouTube.

A Working Farm Experience

As a working sheep farm, the National Forest Adventure Farm provides a rare opportunity to observe sheep from birth to adulthood. Will hinted at future plans for sheep shearing demonstrations.

More Than Just Lambs

The adventure farm offers much more than just lambing. The animal barn is home to a variety of creatures, including cows, goats, guinea pigs, and horses. An admission ticket also grants access to the fun field, go-karts, mini golf, stage shows, tractor rides, a soft play area, and a restaurant.

“It's a fun day out,” says Ellie, “but it also has an educational aspect, giving children the chance to see life be born."

Plan Your Visit

Located in Tatenhill, Burton-upon-Trent, the New Life On The Farm event runs until February 23rd. Tickets can be purchased online (a £2.50 booking fee applies):

Adult/Child: £14.50
Under 2: FREE
Senior Citizen/Disabled: £12.00
Carer: £7.25

Beyond Family Fun

The National Forest Adventure Farm also caters to school trips, offering hands-on learning experiences, and hosts children's birthday parties. The Deer Barn is available for wedding receptions and corporate functions. Uniquely, the farm also houses a day nursery and preschool, providing a unique learning environment for young children.

For more information, visit the National Forest Adventure Farm's website.

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Spring into Action: Live Lambing at the National Forest Adventure Farm.