The Best Open Farms in Northern Ireland

Updated On: April 19, 2024 by   Ciaran Connolly

Looking for fun places to take your children in Northern Ireland? Well, who doesn’t love a visit to an open farm, where you can interact with a variety of friendly farmyard animals, providing a memorable family day out that you’ll treasure forever.

The best part of all, there are eleven marvellous open farms in Northern Ireland, where children and adults alike can spend time meeting, feeding and playing with the animals along with many other fun activities.

Open Farms in Northern Ireland to Visit

Streamvale Open Farm, 38 Ballyhanwood Rd, Belfast

This is one of the most popular open farms in Northern Ireland, hidden away in the rolling hills just on the outskirts of Belfast. This isn’t just your usual typical farm but offers an unforgettable family experience with a variety of fun learning and playing activities for all the family to enjoy. The amazing staff at Streamvale Farm are always there to make sure you get the most out of your trip to the farm.

Some of the best things you can do at this open farm is enjoying some cuddle time with newborn rabbits or the adorable puppies, it will be hard to put them down. During the springtime, you can help to feed the baby lambs in the pet’s corner.

There is also an exciting agricultural themed village area, which is the first of its kind created in Ireland. The village helps to encourage children and adults to learn about daily farming life. Children can explore a farm shop, milking parlour and vets clinic and more.

Streamvale Farm Opening Times/Prices

You can visit this open farm Monday to Sunday from 10;30 until 17:00.

Prices:

• Adult: £8.20
• Child (Ages 3-18): £7.60
• Student: 7.60
• Infants (Under 3): Free

Worlds of Owls, 32 Mount Shalgus Ln, Randalstown, Antrim

An open farm in Northern Ireland but with a difference as you can probably guess with the name, it is a dedicated Owls, Birds of Prey and Exotic animal centre. The only one in Northern Ireland. This is a great place to bring children to see some of the most incredible birds up close in a natural environment.

It’s also a very educational driven place with the ‘World of Owls‘ programme created to help the younger generation in Northern Ireland learn about a variety of topics including ecological and environmental issues.

At the World of Owls, you’ll discover the biggest and most distinctive collection of Owls in all of Ireland and the UK. Things you can enjoy at this open farm include a children’s play area, wildlife area, cafe, photo opportunities with the birds and stunning forest walks.

World of Owls Opening Times/Prices

You can visit this attraction from Tuesday to Sunday (March – October): 11am -6pm. You can also visit from Tuesday to Sunday (November – February): 11am – 4pm.

Prices:

• Adult: £5.50
• Child (Ages 3-15): £4.50
• OAP’s: £4.50

Ark Open Farm, 296 Bangor Rd, Newtownards

This next open farm in Northern Ireland is located in forty acres of beautiful unspoilt countryside, the perfect place for a farm. At the Ark Open Farm, there are many lovable animals waiting for your arrival. From ponies, bunnies, chickens to llamas, deers and even the most adorable little pigs.

Over the years the farm has grown in popularity with many new attractions being added alongside the farm. There is the magical fairytale forest woodland walk, where children can meet some of there favourite fairytale characters and animals. Also, a new outdoor activity centre has been refurbished for children of all ages. You can also take part in fun Bumblebee quad rides.

Ark Open Farm Opening Times/Prices

Take a trip to this great farm from April to October time; Monday to Saturday, 10am – 6pm and Sundays 2pm – 6pm.  November to March time; Monday- Saturday 10am – 5pm and Sundays 2pm to 5pm.

Prices:

• Adult:£7.00
• Child: £6.50
• Infant: Free
• Family (two adults and max of three children):£26.50

Tannaghmore Gardens and Farm, Lurgan

A charming Georgian farm in Northern Ireland, famous for being the home of the Kissing Gate. There is a famous Irish legend surrounding the gate that says couples who kiss near the gate will be married within a year but you’ll only find out if you visit.

This farm is home to some rare breeds included Irish Moiled and Dexter Cattle as well as Saddleback Pigs, geese, hens, turkeys, ducks and more. You can also check out the barn museum with agricultural exhibits on display. A great place to have a picnic and enjoy the pretty surrounding gardens.

Tannaghmore Farms Opening Times and Prices

The farm is open daily from Monday to Sunday; 10am -6pm. Check online to find out more about prices.

Phils Farm, 5 Cortamlet Road, Newry.

Next on our guide to best open farms in Northern Ireland, is ‘Phils Farm’; one of the biggest and most diverse farms in the country. Phil’s petting farm brings you a hands-on experience to get up close and personal to the lovely animals at the farm.

You can even hire the animals out for parties and they are the only place in Northern Ireland who provide Sleigh Pulling Reindeer hire, perfect for Christmas to make it just that extra bit more magical for the children.

More things visitors can enjoy on a trip to Phils Farm is horse riding, llama trekking, a climbing wall and even a bouncy castle. You can visit Phils Farm seven days a week, from 9 am to 6 pm, check out their website for prices and booking enquires.

Have you visited any of these open farms in Northern Ireland? Which one is your favourite? Let us know in the comments below

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