This is a boisterous day out: if you’re a family that enjoys getting muddy and can’t get enough of farm animals, then you’ll love it here.
Park Hall used to be a working farm, so there is a really authentic rural atmosphere here, but plenty of unexpected attractions too. Adults will be pleasantly surprised by the uniforms and memorabilia in the Welsh Guards display, the World War One exhibition, the Victorian school and the Iron Age Roundhouse, while older children will be entertained by the fitness and assault courses, pedal go-karts and off-road course in the 4×4 kids’ driving experiences. The animals are the main draw, however, especially the pig races held daily at 12.30pm and 2.30pm. Younger children will enjoy close encounters with guinea pigs and rabbits in the pet handling area, while staff can help children aged over five try their hand at milking the cows and even young toddlers can join in with brushing the miniature Shetland ponies. From the end of February until early summer, lambs can be bottle-fed by visitors: check the website for details of times. Less confident children may be content with leading Charm the Clydesdale Heavy Horse across the stableyard and feeding the ducks in the pond (food must be purchased from reception). Elsewhere, there are sand pits, a Demon Drop Slide, an under 3s toddler zone, bouncy castles and large indoor play areas too.
Disabled parking is close to the entrance. The Park Hall team has made provisions for visitors with disabilities – wheelchair users in particular – to access the farm. However, there are areas of the attraction that are still reminiscent of a working farm. Be aware that some of the flagstones and paths are slightly uneven and that some of the ramps for access between barns and to indoor and outdoor areas can be tricky for wheelchair users to negotiate independently. There is no step-free access to the upper level of the granary or to the tractor-towed cart-ride around the farm, however the friendly staff are on hand to assist if required.
