10 city farms to visit in the UK
St James City Farm, Gloucester. A short walk from the city centre, this city farm was established in 1998. It is home to rare-breed pigs and sheep and also hosts a successful riding school.
By Sarah McPherson
Discover Wildlife
August 12, 2022
Excerpt:
Meanwood Valley Urban Farm, Leeds
Opened in 1980 near the centre of Leeds, Meanwood began its operations from two old caravans and today manages a site of 26 acres. It has a long history of farming and is home to a range of habitats, from woodland to pasture; a stream also runs through its heart. Various minibeast-friendly habitats are found on the farm, which are regularly explored by school groups on educational visits. It’s a good site for kestrels, and smooth newts and white-clawed crayfish live in the stream.
Ouseburn Farm, Newcastle
This community-run farm was set up in the 1970s by local parents who wanted their children to experience nature, care for animals and grow their own food. It’s a short walk from the River Tyne in the heart of the city and attracts charismatic birds such as kingfishers and insects such as southern hawker dragonflies. It is also a care farm, offering opportunities for adults with learning disabilities and difficulties to learn new skills and connect with nature.
