Just a jump away from the boutiques and restaurants of Brick Lane, donkeys, pigs and ponies wander freely behind the weed-covered fence of this urban farm, where your little ones can happily frolic, as well. Welcome to Spitalfields, the London farm where children can pick vegetables from the garden, feed chickens by hand and climb about treehouses.
The Location
Just a two-minute walk from the lively, weekend food stalls of Brick Lane market, on a former industrial site where the old railways are still visible, you’ll find this little slice of the countryside. For this is where the small and charming Spitalfields farm settled, with its many donkeys, pigs, sheep, ponies and chickens. Its delightful backyard is open to the public and welcomes London families each weekend.
For Kids
Everything here has been designed to pique little ones’ interests and introduce them to life on the farm. Children can pick vegetables from the garden, feed the animals, pet the donkeys and even take a snack break in one of the little cabanas reserved just for them. A tiny track encircles the farm, allowing them to explore the animal pens, one after the next, observing the farm’s many rabbits, geese and turkeys.
We love to enjoy some homemade cake and fresh-pressed juice in the small cafe at the farm’s entrance, while the children explore the wonders of the countryside in the heart of the city. Don’t forget to stop at the farm’s little market and grab a dozen or so fresh eggs, too – they’re perfect for breakfast the next morning.
To Discover
- The BoundaryHotel, a boutique hotel in the very trendy Shoreditch, with a rooftop bar that the whole neighborhood adores and a lovely delicatessen, Albion, (2-4 Boundary Street, Shoreditch, London E2 7DD)
- The Barber and Parlour, a concept store where you’ll find a barber shop, beauty shop, small restaurant and even a little grocery store, (64-66 Redchurch Street, London E2 7DP)
- Canteen, the perfect, gourmet spot to grab a late breakfast or hearty lunch while sightseeing in East London. (2 Crispin Place, Spitalfields, London E1 6DW)
Information
Spitalfields City Farm
Buxton Street
London E1 5AR
Open Tuesday through Sunday from 10am-4pm, closed on Mondays
Tube : Aldgate East
www.spitalfieldscityfarm.org
