Spring Festival celebrates nature-friendly farming

Earth Trust is excited to announce the dates for its popular spring event which will take place over two weekends – 4-5 May and 11-12 May 2024.

The Spring Festival will be held at Earth Trust Farm in Little Wittenham, Oxfordshire, nestled beneath the iconic Wittenham Clumps. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the working farm, meet newborn lambs and other animals, and enjoy a range of fun activities suitable for all ages.

Highlights of the festival include:

  • Tractor-trailer rides
  • Welly-wanging competition
  • Giant hay bale climbing
  • Bee Lab with candle-making and honey tasting
  • Spring activity trail
  • Delicious local food and refreshments
  • A makers market of sustainable produce

The family-friendly event is an evolution of the charity’s much-loved lambing festival and will showcase the importance of nature-friendly farming practices.

Through this event, the Oxfordshire-based environmental charity aims to raise awareness about the role that farming in harmony with nature can play in maintaining healthy ecosystems, promoting biodiversity, and producing sustainable food. Visitors can find out about the charity’s commitment to environmentally sensitive practices and how their food choices can support a healthier planet.

Amy Rowland, Earth Trust’s Public Programming Manager, said: “We are thrilled to welcome visitors to our farm for the Spring Festival. With over 74% of Oxfordshire being farmed, it’s crucial that we showcase how farming can support nature. This event is a fantastic opportunity for people to connect with nature, learn about sustainable farming, and enjoy a fun day out with family and friends. And by coming along to the Spring Festival, visitors are also contributing to Earth Trust’s mission to champion accessible green spaces for everyone.”

The Festival is part of Earth Trust’s Spring to Life season, which celebrates the circle of life by encouraging people to notice and nurture the nature around them. The charity cares for 500 hectares of diverse habitats, including the iconic Wittenham Clumps and community reserves in towns across Oxfordshire, engaging and inspiring people to take action for people and the planet.

Tickets for the Spring Festival cost £5 per person (pre-booked online) or £8 at the gate, with under 2s entering for free. Some activities will be charged separately. Advanced booking is recommended.

Especially for the May Bank Holiday, there is an exclusive, hands-on experience for those who want to dive deeper into the joys of spring on the farm. The “Get Closer Experience” is a 1.5-hour event designed for just 20 guests (children and adults) who are looking for a more in-depth farm adventure.

To find out more and book tickets, visit www.earthtrust.org.uk/whats-on.

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