West Lodge Rural Centre

Handle the fluffy young chicks, rabbits and guinea pigs in Cuddle Corner and laugh at the antics of the pygmy goats on Goat Mountain. You can feed the ducks, groom a pony, watch and get involved in the ever popular piglet race! So much to do here!

Children of all ages can meet and learn about their range of farm animals, including many rare breeds, handle the fluffy young chicks, rabbits and guinea pigs in Cuddle Corner and laugh at the antics of the pygmy goats on Goat Mountain.

Walk one of the many nature trails, from quarter of a mile to three and a half, taking you through our conservation award winning farm through woods, meadows, by streams and ponds enjoying the diversity of wildlife on the way. If you look up you may see skylarks, lapwings and raptors and if you are very lucky you might even see a red kite. Closer to the ground look out for deer, hares, wild rabbits, foxes, badgers, voles and even grass snakes.

Back at the farm, children can work off their energy in indoor and outdoor play areas, build a shelter in the den making area, as well as enjoying the free barrel ride which runs every hour. There is also, during the main season, a real tractor trailer tour of the farm available to book.

Educational Visits

West Lodge is a family run working farm which regularly hosts nursery and school visits. We offer guided and non guided trips to suit your individual requirements. Guided trips can be linked to topics and schemes of work. We have an educational officer who is happy to talk through any requirements you may have. Our farm guides are all CEVAS accredited and have a wide range of experience with schools and will accommodate groups from foundation stage through to KS3.

Christmas Experience for Schools and Nurseries

During December, in term time, we offer the Christmas Experience at a discounted rate to schools and nurseries on weekdays. The children can visit Father Christmas in his magical grotto, receive and early gift and make a Christmas card. They can take part in the live nativity play, visit the animals, learn about Christmas around the world, enjoy the play area and free barrel rides.

For a Christmas booking form please call 01536 760552. Also note that due to Christmas activities in December normal school trips and prices are not available.