The farm has some of the oldest breeds of farm animals in the country including Vaynol cows, Tamworth pigs, Bagot goats and Whitefaced Woodland sheep. You’ll also see lots of different birds including poultry and ducks.
Most of the buildings are original and a highlight is the beautiful dovecote which would have been built for the owners of Temple Newsam as a status of wealth.
The farm tour will also give you the chance to find out more about some of our animals and ask our team questions about what it’s like to work there. New-born animals are born all year round so you may get a chance to see a squeal of piglets or a flock of lambs causing mischief.
Don’t miss our interactive areas which bring the original farm to life and look out for agricultural machinery, tools and artefacts which show how things have changed in farming over the centuries.
16th May - This month's guided farm tour continues to explore the rhythms of the farming year and focusses on some of our rare breed livestock such as Bagot goats, Irish Moiled cattle, and our Whitefaced Woodland and Boreray sheep. Spring is a busy time at Home Farm and new life is everywhere! Learn how we manage these heritage breeds - from calving, kidding and lambing, to pasture rotation and sustainable framing practices. See how the seasons shape our work, from tending to young stock to preparing for summer grazing. Discover how Home Farm balances tradition with conservation, helping preserve these incredible animals for future generations.
13th June - Stride into summer with our June guided farm tour, where you'll meet our rare breed Tamworth pigs, Manx Loagthan sheep and more! Discover how longer days and lush pastures shape our farming calendar - from weaning lambs to rotational grazing and piglet rearing. See our rust-red Tamworth pigs foraging in a natural habitat and learn how their hardy nature makes them perfect for outdoor farming. Meet the multi-horned Manx Loaghtan sheep, a rare and ancient breed dating back to the Iron Age, and find out how they help us to manage the landscape of the estate. Explore how summer is a time of growth and preparation, from haymaking to caring for our young stock. Our guide will share insights into both sustainable heritage farming, and how these incredible animals contribute to conservation and food production.
18th July - Join us for our July guided tour exploring rare breed animals and their role in traditional farming. Meet Middle White pigs, Vaynol cattle and Golden Guernsey Goats and learn about their importance in conservation. Discover how the farming year shapes their care, from Spring births to Summer grazing. Your guide will share insights into sustainable farming practices and the unique history and characteristics of these rare breeds; A perfect opportunity for animal lovers to connect with nature and our agricultural heritage.
16th August - Experience the hustle and bustle of late summer as we show you our rare breed livestock. Meet our majestic Sebastopol geese, known for their stunning, curly feathers, and spend some time with our adorable Middle Whites - the 'Yorkshire Pigs' prized for their distinctive appearance and excellent temperament. Your guide will share fascinating insights into the rhythms of farm life, from feeding schedules to the challenges and joys of raising these unique animals. And, as an added bonus, say hello to our friendly donkeys, who'll be waiting to wow you with their gentle personalities. An hour long tour, offering a perfect blend of farm history, animal encounters and the beauty of Summer on the Temple Newsam estate.
