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Foxdown Children's Farm

Marshalsea, United Kingdom•4.9(147)•Farm, Wildlife Center

Meet and feed a variety of farm animals while enjoying stunning Dorset countryside views at this family-friendly working farm.

Foxdown Children's Farm opened in July 2022 on the beautiful Marshwood Vale in West Dorset, offering families an authentic farm experience with far-reaching views across to the Jurassic coastline. Founded by Adrian Strawbridge, who has worked on the farm since childhood, and his wife Shelley, a trained Primary School Teacher and Level 3 Forest School practitioner, the venue combines genuine farming expertise with a passion for engaging young visitors. Visitors can enjoy multiple experience options suited to different ages and interests. General entry allows families to wander the farm at their leisure, feeding and petting animals, with designated animal handling times and daily "Meet the Pigs" sessions. Guided tour experiences provide an in-depth introduction to farm life, including feeding demonstrations, animal talks, small animal handling, and playtime, lasting approximately 75-90 minutes. Specialized animal experiences are available during school holidays, including baby kids and lambs experiences, small animal handling workshops, and pony/donkey sessions where children can learn grooming and handling techniques. The farm caters to families with very young children through its Foxdown Cubs parent-and-toddler sessions (Tuesdays and Fridays term-time). With facilities including an entrance cabin, refreshment area, children's play zone, and pushchair-friendly pathways, Foxdown welcomes visitors from age 0 upwards. The venue operates seasonally from mid-March through October, with flexible booking options and season passes available for regular visitors.
OFFICIAL WEBSITE

Opening Hours

Monday: 10:00 – 17:00
Tuesday: 10:00 – 17:00
Wednesday: 10:00 – 17:00
Thursday: 10:00 – 17:00
Friday: 10:00 – 17:00
Saturday: 10:00 – 17:00
Sunday: Closed

Venue Details

Venue Type

Indoor & Outdoor

Typical visit duration

All day

Booking

Walk-in

Recommended ages

0 months (newborn)+

What this place offers

ToiletsToilets
Public transportPublic transport nearby
Accessible toilets
Free WiFi
Baby changingBaby changing facilities
Food available
On-site parking
🐕Dog-friendly
Parking nearby
Pushchair friendlyPushchair friendly

☕ Food & Drink

Entrance Cabin

Cabin serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and cakes with indoor seating available. Also offers bring-your-own travel mug filling service for tea or coffee.

Hours: 10:00-17:00 daily (during open season)

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Google Reviews

4.9(147 reviews)
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Victoria Lingwood

Victoria Lingwood

2 months ago

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ We had an absolutely fantastic day at Foxdown Farm! I visited with my 1-year-old and 7-year-old, and there was so much for both of them to enjoy. It’s the kind of place where you can easily spend the whole day, with a trampoline, play areas, a huge toy area, space to play football, and of course all the wonderful animals. The animals are clearly exceptionally well cared for, with spotless enclosures and happy, friendly personalities. The animal handling session was a real highlight – the children were given brushes and food so they could gently groom and feed the guinea pigs and rabbits, which they absolutely loved. There was even an opportunity to stroke a guinea fowl, which was a unique experience! Walking around the farm, you can meet, feed, and interact with a variety of animals that genuinely seem to enjoy the attention. The beautiful Highland cows were a particular favourite. The on-site shop is another reason to visit – the cheese toastie was honestly one of the best I’ve ever had, and they also stock Baboo Gelato, which is always a treat. What really makes Foxdown Farm special is the warm, family-run atmosphere. The farm is run by a lovely husband-and-wife team alongside their children, and that personal touch creates such a welcoming, homely feel. We also learned about their outreach visits to schools and care homes, as well as their activity days and birthday parties, which is fantastic to see. A wonderful day out for families – we’ll definitely be returning and would highly recommend a visit! 🐐🐰🐮❤️

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heidi koloska

heidi koloska

2 months ago

Discovered this gem after reading the reviews here! What a delightful place to spend a few hours. A beautiful location with stunning views & selection of ‘typical’ farm animals to say ‘hi’ to (you can also purchase feed). They have play trays dotted about with different toy stations set up which was a lovely addition & there is also a play area & trampoline towards the back. Inside the barn you can get up close with rabbits & guinea pigs - both my 5 & 2yo enjoyed this. Adrian was great & chose the best animals for my 2yo who was nervous to start. Small cafe serving sausage rolls, toasted sandwiches & cake. Picnic tables dotted around the site. Definitely worth a visit & we will happily come again.

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Debs Hart

Debs Hart

2 months ago

Fabulous day spent at the farm. My granddaughter loved every minute and really didn't want to leave, animals looked amazing all very well kept and loved being able to hand feed the goats and see the kids out with their mums. The childrens play activities were fab from water and sand play to lego and trampoline and fort with slides, really can't recommend more highly. My mobility scooter got stuck on the sloping gravel path and straight away the owner helped by giving me a push off the gravel. All areas were accessible with my mobility scooter which was definitely an added bonus as I got to share the whole experience with my granddaughter.

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Patricia Loveridge

Patricia Loveridge

3 months ago

Took granddaughters, they had a great time looking at the animals and feeding them, (you buy food from the cabin.) Nice play area, petting the rabbits and guinipigs, only small issue we had was the access to the diabled toilet is a bit steep and a lip at the top.

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3 months ago

What a lovely little gem of a place. Absolutely perfect for my 3 and 7 year old to come and meet all the animals. They loved hand feeding the goats and sheep, who were all so keen to have food out of hands. The adults loved watching the goat kids zoom about playing. Lots of play equipment for the kids to expel energy between the animals. We also did the small animal handling and the kids got to hold and brush many guinea pigs and rabbits, out favourite was Milly who was sooo soft. They also got to meet a 2 week old baby guinea pig and baby rabbit. The easter trail was fun and the kids loved the prizes. All the staff were so friendly and knowledgeable about the animals too. Thanks for a lovely couple of hours

Reviews last updated: 7 October 2026

Events at Foxdown Children's Farm

No upcoming events scheduled

Check back soon for new events at this venue.

This venue was last updated on 7 October 2026

Frequently asked questions about Foxdown Children's Farm

Is Foxdown Children's Farm free to visit?

Foxdown Children's Farm is a paid attraction — see the official website for current ticket prices.

What ages is Foxdown Children's Farm suitable for?

Foxdown Children's Farm is suitable for visitors of all ages, from babies through to adults.

Is Foxdown Children's Farm dog-friendly?

Dogs are not permitted at Foxdown Children's Farm.

Is there parking at Foxdown Children's Farm?

Yes — Foxdown Children's Farm has on-site parking, plus additional parking nearby.

Is there food at Foxdown Children's Farm?

Yes — Entrance Cabin is on site at Foxdown Children's Farm. Cabin serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and cakes with indoor seating available.

Is Foxdown Children's Farm pushchair-friendly?

Yes, Foxdown Children's Farm is pushchair, pram and buggy friendly — most areas are step-free so you can navigate easily with little ones in tow.

How long should we plan to spend at Foxdown Children's Farm?

Foxdown Children's Farm is a full-day experience — plan accordingly.

How do I get to Foxdown Children's Farm by public transport?

Foxdown Children's Farm isn't on a major public transport route — driving is recommended.

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