Explore, experience and enjoy at Sacrewell – more than just a farm

But the place set across multiple-acres of greenery, managed by the William Scott Abbot Trust has so much more to offer and is now becoming a popular family destination.

From outdoor theme-based play areas, to animal paddocks, a lake, a working 18-century mill which was fascinating to see, It's believed the Grade II listed watermill goes back as far as 1086. It was reopened in 2015 after a £1.8m restoration.

Apart from this, an indoor soft play area-playbarn and several workshops for young people to learn the age-old skills of blacksmiths and carpentry are sure to keep young minds occupied.

We spent the morning walking around the farm, exploring the different areas into which it’s been divided.

The lovely artisan courtyard is a sure hit with independent businesses including Heavenly Chocolates, Djibo Art by the talented Roland Burt, cheese manufacturers – The Whyte Wytch, and Nene Valley Spirits.

Some of the businesses also offer workshops to visitors including chocolate making and arts and crafts.

There were lots of young people enjoying the play area themed around farm animals, while peacocks casually strolled around them.

Sacrewell is also a big attraction for local schools wanting to learn about nature and environment and pass on values of farming.

Every Peterborough school child must have paid, or will surely pay, a visit to the farm, steeped with greenery, history and education benefits. It was my first visit to the venue and I had a great day.

One can learn about local produce to animal welfare, enjoy a tractor ride, learn about organic farming, visit the orchards and get an sight into the 18th century mill.

The farm also runs a toddler group that harvests vegetables, all with an aim to learn about farming and understand the concept of farm to fork.

It’s a great place for a day out for a family picnic with lots of outdoor spaces and seating areas scattered around the farm, offering opportunities for lovely countryside walks amidst nature and animals.

If not the onsite café, Origin8 is great spot to grab lunch and drinks.

Like many venues, Sacrewell too felt the impact of the pandemic. But they couldn’t stop as the animals and the green spaces still needed care and attention. It has been challenging for the staff but they got there in the end.

The farm relies on volunteers and has over 50 people helping them with their day-to-day operations. They are also key for organising family events at the farm.

Attracting more volunteers as well as staff members has been a bit of a challenge for Sacrewell. They are currently recruiting for a tractor driver for the farm.

Now they are getting ready for a busy few weeks ahead as half-term starts next week, followed by Easter in a few weeks' time.

From February 12 until February 20, they have several activities on offer for half-term including wheelbarrow racing Bubble mania along with the play areas- both indoor and outdoor.

The farm is in need of volunteers who are happy to take part in the events being organised at Sacrewell.

Planning is underway for an Easter celebration as well, with activities at the farm for people to take part in including an egg and spoon race and walking trail which is an Easter egg hunt and Easter bonnet parade.

For later in the year, the farm is also planning events for the Queen’s Jubilee celebrations and of course Halloween is a popular time with pumpkin picking.

Visits to the farm need-to-be pre-booked.

You can find out about booking workshops, day visits and camping information here.