Our Visit to Cockfields Farm Park
We headed to Cockfields Farm Park in Ashton-under-Lyne for a family day out and, as always, the animals were one of the first things we wanted to see.
There is something about a farm visit that children never seem to get bored of, particularly when they can actually get involved rather than simply looking at the animals from behind a fence.
One of our favourite things about Cockfields is the opportunity to feed some of the animals. The goats in particular are always a hit and can be rather enthusiastic when they realise you’ve got food!
The pigs are also a favourite and although our visit was the wrong time of year to see the piglets this time, it just means we have an excuse to go back again soon.
There are also lots of other animals to discover around the farm, so it’s worth taking your time and exploring rather than heading straight for the play areas.
Getting Up Close to the Animals
Cockfields offers a variety of animal experiences, with opportunities to see and handle some of the smaller animals as well as meeting the larger farm animals.
The animal handling sessions have always been a favourite with us because they give children the chance to get much closer to the animals.
Depending on what’s happening during your visit, you may get to meet animals such as guinea pigs, rabbits, reptiles and other creatures.
For children who are fascinated by animals, this is one of the parts of Cockfields that really sets it apart and makes it an extra special day.
The Reptile Room
The reptile area was another favourite on our visit.
It’s a good change of pace from the traditional farm animals and there are some unusual creatures to discover. Children who love snakes, tortoises and reptiles will particularly enjoy spending some time here.
It’s also the sort of place where you can find yourself lingering longer than expected because there’s always something interesting for the children to spot.
On the day we visited there was Meet The Reptiles sessions throughout the day and we go to hold a snake a stroke a bearded dragon.
There Is Plenty of Play Too
Once the children have had their fill of animals, there is plenty of opportunity to burn off some energy.
Outside you’ll find a mixture of play equipment and activities, including swings, slides, climbing areas and the giant jumping pillow.
The jumping pillow is a particular favourite of my kids who like to bounce, and it’s a great way to tire them out!
There are also areas for sand and water play, along with other outdoor activities depending on the season.
Indoor Activities at Cockfields Farm Park
One of the things I think is important when planning a family day out in Greater Manchester is having somewhere to escape to if the weather changes.
Cockfields has a selection of indoor activities, including indoor role play and sand play, so you’re not completely reliant on sunshine.
Since our last visit they have also added a sensory room, which provides a quieter option for babies and toddlers who might need a break from the busier parts of the farm.
This mixture of indoor and outdoor activities is one of the reasons Cockfields works well for families. You can head outside when the weather is good and still have things to do if the rain arrives.
What Is Cockfields Farm Park Like for Toddlers?
Although my kids are now older, Cockfields is particularly well suited to toddlers or preschool children,
There is lots for younger children to see and do without expecting them to spend the whole day walking around. They can feed animals, see the smaller animals, enjoy the play areas and explore at their own pace.
The indoor role-play areas and sensory room are also useful additions for younger visitors.
I’d definitely allow plenty of time if you’re visiting with a toddler. You’ll probably find that they want to stop and investigate everything rather than following any sort of sensible schedule!
Food and Picnics at Cockfields
After all that animal spotting and playing, the children are likely to be ready for food.
There is a café at Cockfields serving a selection of hot and cold food and drinks, including kids meals. We had pizza and chips and it was lovely . The cakes are also worth a try.
If you’d rather bring your own food, you can also take a picnic. There are picnic areas around the farm, giving families the option of bringing their own lunch and snacks.
How Long Should You Spend at Cockfields Farm Park?
You can easily get around the farm in a couple of hours.
However, we can easily spend a full day Cockfields. The kids happily hop around between taking part in the animal experiences and the play areas throughout the day and never seem to get bored.
If you’re visiting during one of Cockfields’ larger seasonal events, I’d allow extra time as there may be additional activities included.
What Age Is Cockfields Farm Park Best For?
We have visited Cockfields with kids of every age and they have always had lots of fun. It is particularly good for toddlers, preschoolers and primary-school-aged children.
Younger children will get lots from the animals, animal handling, role play and sensory activities, while older children can enjoy the more active outdoor attractions.
Its seasonal events such as Pumpkin Picking and Bonfire Night can also make it worth returning to as children get older, as the experience changes throughout the year.
What We Like About Cockfields Farm Park
- Lots of animals for children to see and interact with.
- Animal handling experiences make the visit more hands-on.
- Indoor and outdoor activities mean you’re not completely dependent on the weather.
- Plenty of opportunities to play once you’ve finished with the animals.
- Good for younger children, particularly toddlers and preschoolers.
- Seasonal events give families another reason to return throughout the year.
- Picnic facilities are useful for families wanting to bring their own food.
Things to Know Before You Visit
As with any family attraction, there are a few things worth knowing before you go.
Some attractions and activities can be seasonal or weather dependent, so don’t assume everything will be running exactly as it was during a previous visit.
I’d also recommend checking ticket prices and booking arrangements before travelling, particularly during school holidays and special events.
And if you’re visiting with younger children, comfortable shoes and clothes that can cope with outdoor play are definitely a good idea!
Is Cockfields Farm Park Worth Visiting?
Yes, we think Cockfields Farm Park is a good choice for a family day out, particularly if you have younger children who love animals.
What we like most is that there is more to the attraction than simply seeing farm animals. The animal encounters give children the chance to get involved, while the play areas mean they can burn off some energy afterwards. It alway
It’s also useful having indoor attractions alongside the outdoor areas. We all know how quickly a sunny morning can turn into a Manchester downpour!
For toddlers and younger children, there is enough variety to keep them interested without the day feeling like one long walk around a farm.
With seasonal events taking place throughout the year, Cockfields is also somewhere families can return to and have a different experience at different times of the year.
Our Family On The Go Verdict
Cockfields Farm Park is a fun, hands-on family day out that combines animals, play and outdoor adventure.
Our favourite part is the opportunity for children to get involved with the animals rather than simply looking at them, followed by plenty of chances to run around and play.
I love that you can make it a full day out ensuring that you get your moneys worth.
