For SalePedigree Shetland Sheep for SaleSaturday 26th September 2026Learn More
Uh Oh! You're using an old web browser
Please upgrade to a modern web browser to view this website.
Share
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.Wild 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.Local 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
-
- Pond dipping in the river nearby
-
- 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
Big Owls and Eagle Owls: Animal Feed
14th November 2026
09:30am
Today we will be feeding the animals on the farm. You’ll get to meet our pigs, goats, sheep, rabbits and more! Make sure you wear closed shoes for walking around the farm. For this session we will meet you at the picnic bench beside the car park. Please note: Ticket includes one child and an...
Volunteers: Garden- getting ready for winter
16th November 2026
10:30am
Various tasks around the beds and in the greenhouse; probably more items for the burn pile. A classic busy morning in an Autumnal Garden
Little Owls: Getting Ready for Winter
19th November 2026
10:00am
Join us at the Treehouses to learn about how animals prepare for Winter, and help them stay warm and cosy! Wrap up warm owls, and don’t forget your wellies! Please note: Ticket includes one child and an accompanying adult, and we’re unable to accommodate non-participating siblings, regardless of age. We need supervising adults to be able to...
Countryside Workshop: Pruning Fruit Trees
22nd November 2026
11:00am
Horticulture Come and learn about the techniques and reasons for pruning fruit trees. You’ll be shown things to look for, where to prune and why and how to help the tree flourish. Then you’ll have an opportunity to practice on some of our trees before you try your new skills to your own trees at...
Volunteers: Farm- Sloe picking
24th November 2026
10:30am
We have interest from a local gin distillery for our sloes. Today seems like a good day to harvest. Please note a Tuesday for this particular event