Farm UpdatesEmily the New Year TurkeyTuesday 23rd January 2024Learn More
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What we do
Established in 1975, The Countryside Education Trust’s mission is to connect people with the countryside. Forty years ago we were pioneers, but now we are experts! We introduce people to the wonders of the British countryside, rural life and farming. Our expert teaching team tailors national curriculum-based modules to the needs of each school and we have great feedback from our visitors.
Farm Life
We welcome schools all year, with an emphasis on hands-on, outdoor learning. Schools visit for a week, half a week or a day. Residential visitors experience daily life on the farm, collecting eggs from our hens for breakfast, helping with animal feeding and picking their own vegetables from the garden.Farm Life
Based at Home Farm in the New Forest, we also have Treehouses close by in ancient woodland. Blessed by a wonderful position, close to woods, a river, heathland and the sea, we have a variety of habitats on our doorstep and teach a wide range of environmental and bush craft activities.Farm Life
Beaulieu village, the historic Palace House and monastery, and the National Motor Museum are all within walking distance. Slightly further afield is Bucklers’ Hard, a historic shipbuilding village, reached by a lovely riverside walk.-
- Schools trips in the forest
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- Pond dipping in the river nearby
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- Bird of prey
The Countryside for Everyone
We run regular playgroups Owlets (0-2), Little Owls (2-4) and Big Owls (4-6). The general public is welcome for family days and we hold a variety of events and courses throughout the year to introduce people to country living, rural crafts and wildlife. Home Farm is perfect for groups of families or friends who want to spend time in the countryside and our Treehouses host truly beautiful weddings.
Upcoming Events
Owlets: Farm Babies
25th April 2024
10:00am
Join us for a morning of fun on the farm. See our fluffy baby lambs leaping around in the fields and meet our cute rabbits and guinea pigs in the barn. Come and make some baby animal crafts followed by a break to enjoy some refreshments. We look forward to seeing you there! Please note: All...
Volunteers- Conservation- Hartford Wood burn pile
25th April 2024
10:30am
Going into the busier, warmer period up in the woods. Following the sterling efforts of our staff/volunteer team working on replacing the decking and supports at the Treehouses there is one big burn pile to contend with . A little extra session just needing the support from a couple of extra hands to get through...
Volunteers: Maintenance+ Garden- Veg Bed cages & Herb beds
29th April 2024
10:30am
A busy morning and a real mix of tasks. whether it is drills, saws and screwdrivers on hand to build some more veg bed cages or trowels, forks and a bit of stone lifting to reinstate the herb beds….. something to suit everyone this morning. You could even do a bit of both if you...
'Archaeology and Coastal Change in the Western Solent'
1st May 2024
07:00pm
For our second lecture about the New Forest Coast we welcome Garry Momber, the director of the Maritime Archaeology Trust (MAT). MAT has been investigating, protecting and promoting maritime archaeology and heritage for over 30 years, both locally and internationally. Join us for an evening of diving into the past of the Solent at our...
Dawn Chorus Bird Watching Walk
5th May 2024
06:00am
This event will be led by talented ornithologist, Graham Giddens, and located at Needs Ore Nature Reserve. With over 20 years experience leading wildlife groups, you will be sure to get the most from your experience. Guiding you through coastal marshland, this carefully planned walk offers stunning scenery and ample opportunity to spot some birds...