Spring has arrived at Temple Newsam’s Home Farm and has brought adorable new arrivals, with more still to come. Don’t miss out on catching the little piglets, lambs and kids over Easter.
The farm at Temple Newsam is one of the largest rare breed centres in Europe and boasts over 400 sheep, pigs, poultry and goats, helping to conserve some of the oldest breeds of farm animals in the country.
The farm, with its historic cobbled yards and outbuildings, now hosts a new permanent trail where you can meet the characters that used to work at the historic farm, alongside all the animals.
Showcasing what working life was like at the farm hundreds of years ago, the interactive trail starts with a short film, giving insight into the working-class histories of the workers on the estate.
Visitors can meet characters like Sarah, who worked as a dairymaid at the end of the 19th Century. In the old dairy you can listen to her story about singing to the cows to get the best milk and churning butter.
In the harness room, visitors will come across the stable hand James and can have a go at putting a bridle on a horse’s head. If you’re lucky you might also get to meet two fluffy donkeys named Blue and Maria.
The trail has many other characters to discover, not to mention all the animals living on the farm.
The children’s mayor of Leeds, Mohammed Hussein, tested out the trail and said: “I had a lot of fun and learnt loads. I’m definitely coming back and bringing my brothers!”
Councillor Jane Dowson, Leeds City Council’s deputy executive member, said: “Every year it’s wonderful to see the new spring arrivals at the Home Farm, the perfect sign that spring is here.
“With the new trail through the farm we’ve significantly improved the experience for families and all visitors, who can now learn about what working life on the farm was like hundreds of years ago.
“It’s a great day out and Temple Newsam has lots going on over the Easter holidays to keep you entertained and get you out in the fresh air.”
Temple Newsam estate also has lots of other things to look forward to over Easter. The Fabulous Food and Fancy Feasts activities in the house invites you to see the majestic rooms set for feasts and learn about fabulous food from the past. They also provide family fun crafts, activities, and trails throughout the house. The activities run from 23 March until 14 April.
Read more about Temple Newsam here.
