Farm Visits and Petting Zoos
Looking for a great day out with the kids? Farms and petting zoos are the perfect way to get outside, meet some adorable animals, and enjoy quality family time. Whether it’s feeding the goats, cuddling fluffy bunnies, or exploring the great outdoors, these experiences are fun, hands-on, and full of memories waiting to be made.
Grab your wellies and get ready for an animal adventure! We’ve put together a list of fantastic places to visit across Northumberland, Newcastle, Cumbria, Sunderland and Durham.
Before planning your visit, it’s advisable to check the respective websites for the latest information on opening times, ticket prices, and any special events or activities.
NORTHUMBERLAND
Northumberland Zoo is home to over 80 species, ranging from tiny harvest mice to majestic snow leopards. Visitors can enjoy various exhibits, including native British species, exotic animals and interactive experiences. The zoo also offers animal encounters, allowing guests to get up close to the animals.
Whitehouse Farm Centre is Northumberland’s largest family-run farm attraction, spread over 40 acres. Since 1997, it has provided interactive and educational experiences, enabling visitors to see, handle, and feed a wide variety of animals, from traditional farm breeds to more unusual and exotic species. The farm offers a mix of outdoor and indoor activities, making it suitable for all weather conditions.
Located within the Kirkley Hall campus, Northumberland College Zoo is open to the public every weekend and during Northumberland County Council school holidays. The zoo features a diverse collection of animals and serves as an educational facility for college students. It’s an excellent place for families to explore and learn about various species in a picturesque setting.
Before planning your visit, it’s advisable to check the respective websites for the latest information on opening times, ticket prices, and any special events or activities.
Stony Pasture, located near the village of Chollerford. They offer interactive animal experiences, school holiday sessions and craft sessions. They keep alpacas, llamas, Guernsey goats, Greyface Dartmoor sheep & chickens.
CUMBRIA
Located near Bassenthwaite in Cumbria, visitors can enjoy a variety of daily activities, including engaging bird of prey flying displays, informative keeper talks and interactive reptile encounters. For younger guests, the park provides both indoor and outdoor play areas, ensuring entertainment regardless of the weather. There are ample picnic spots throughout the grounds, and the on-site café serves homemade meals throughout the day.
Walby Farm Park, located in Crosby-on-Eden near Carlisle, is Cumbria’s award-winning all-weather attraction, offering a delightful experience for families and visitors of all ages. The park is home to a variety of farm animals, including rabbits, guinea pigs, ponies, goats, and ferrets. Interactive sessions such as pony grooming, goat racing, and ferret shows provide educational and entertaining experiences.
NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE
Located in the scenic Jesmond Dene Park, Pets’ Corner is a free attraction that has been a cherished part of the community since the 1960s. It is home to a variety of animals, including goats, rabbits, guinea pigs, birds, ducks and poultry. The facility aims to educate visitors about farm life and animal care, making it an ideal spot for children to interact with and learn about animals. Adjacent to Pets’ Corner is a visitor centre, a café, and a play area for children under eight. Free entry, although a £2 donation is suggested.
Come and discover this working community farm in the urban heart of Newcastle upon Tyne. You’ll find sheep and cows, pigs, chickens, ducks and more. Inside, you can get up close and personal with small furry animals and reptiles. Free entry.
SUNDERLAND
Located in Houghton-le-Spring, Down at the Farm is a family-run farm offering interactive experiences such as tractor rides, animal petting sessions, and opportunities to be a mini zookeeper for the day. The farm is home to a variety of animals, including traditional farm livestock and more exotic species.
Sunderland Training and Education Farm (STEF Ltd)
As the only educational farm in Sunderland, STEF Ltd provides a space for the local community to visit and interact with animals. The farm focuses on educational programs and community engagement, offering visitors the chance to learn about animal care and farming practices.
DURHAM
Located near Durham, Adventure Valley features a petting farm where visitors can interact with animals such as rabbits, guinea pigs, and ponies. The farm also houses llamas, alpacas, goats, sheep, and donkeys. Daily activities include grooming sessions and educational encounters, ensuring fun regardless of the weather.
Situated in County Durham, Hall Hill Farm offers a hands-on experience with friendly rabbits to handle, puppet shows, and a unique “wonky donkey” crazy golf course. The farm is well-regarded for its range of activities suitable for both children and adults.
Tweddle Children’s Animal Farm
Situated near Hartlepool, Tweddle Farm offers a variety of activities, including barrel rides, tractor rides, animal petting sessions, indoor soft play, and foot golf. The farm is home to a wide range of animals and provides a fun-filled day out for families.
For more ideas, visit Northumberland | Raring2go! – What’s On Guide
