Spring is just around the corner, and it is the perfect season to visit one of Hampshire’s farm animal parks. Finkley Down Farm is one such park situated near Andover and unlike many parks of a similar ilk it is open all year round – but spring is without a doubt the best time to visit due to the abundance of gorgeous baby animals gracing the ground. You will see lambs, calves, chicks, and piglets, so much cuteness.
The park is home to many children’s favourites such as ducks, sheep, donkeys, cows, pigs, and goats. There is also the ‘touch and feel barn’ where children (and parents alike!) can get up close and personal to some of their favourite furry friends. Rabbits give the best cuddles! For an extra charge you can also take a pony ride, which is a great chance for your young ones to experience something which may evolve into a healthy hobby. Recently the farm added Bird of Prey and Reptile experiences to their day’s itinerary of talks and feeds for those who prefer their animals with scales or feathers instead of fur. There really is something for every member of the family.
As well as the abundance of animals, there is also a huge indoor play barn which is usefully segregated into areas depending on the age range of your little ones. This area is also great should you happen to end up at the farm in one of those infamous April Showers! If the sun is shining (we will keep our fingers crossed for you), there are also lots of opportunities for outdoor play such as pedal go-carts, ridable tractors, trampolines, and sand pits.
Throughout the year, Finkley put on several special events. They run a Mother’s Day promotion (25th and 26th March) which means mums can go for free when you use code ‘MOTHERSDAY17’ at the online checkout. In the April Half-Term they are putting on the ‘Easter Extravaganza’ which is themed around the arrival of newborns. There will be sheep racing, and games with a Mad Hatter and of course the Easter Bunny will be making an appearance with chocolate goodies in tow for the whole family. Later in the year you can attend events such as the Teddy Bear’s picnic, the Superheroes Weekend, the Summer Spectacular, and Halloween and Christmas themed jovialities.
Finkley Down Farm is open from 10am to 6pm daily (except for certain bank holidays – check the website for your date). You can book online in advance which will allow you to save up to £2 off the price of a ticket on the day. Their saver ticket for two adults and two children provides the best value, and there are also discounts for families with disabled members, and senior citizens and children under two go free!
So what are you waiting for? Book your day out in one of Hampshire’s best family farms today to complete your cottage getaway.
