FAQs

When is the Farm open?

10am to 4pm Tuesday – Sunday.

Closed on Monday, except for Bank Holiday Mondays.

When is the cafe open?

10am to 4pm Tuesday – Sunday.

How much does it cost to visit?

The Farm is free to visit.

Do groups need to book?

yes. If you would like to visit with a school group, please see our Schools page or email rosie@stepneycityfarm.org so that we can help you to plan your trip.

Which animals live on the Farm?

Sheep, pigs, goats, chickens, ducks, geese, donkeys, ferrets, guinea pigs and rabbits.

What can I do on the Farm?

You can visit and feed the animals, enjoy healthy home-cooked and local produce in our cafe, and watch crafts people at work at our Rural Arts Centre. There are often special events such as talks on food and farming issues and seasonal celebrations for all the family.

Can I bring my dog to the Farm?

No, dogs are not allowed anywhere on site because we are a working farm.

Guide dogs are allowed on site.

Can I volunteer at the Farm?

We welcome new volunteers and offer expert training where appropriate.

Find out more.

Do you accept corporate volunteers?

Yes; we get very good feedback from our corporate groups, whose help is always
appreciated. Find out more.

Can schools get involved?

Yes. We have two Education Officers who work closely with local schoolchildren. The Farm is rapidly becoming an extra classroom for many of our local schools. Please see the For Teachers section of the website or email youth@stepneycityfarm.org for more information.

Can I have a children’s party at the Farm?

Yes, these are very popular! Find out more.

Is the Farm a registered charity?

Yes. Our number is 1136448.

How is the Farm funded?

55% of our funding is from grant-giving organisations and donations from generous visitors and supporters. 45% is from earned income. We’re working towards increasing self-sufficiency but always welcome any help to keep the Farm free to visit.

I want to make a donation. How can I do this?

Thank you. All donations are gratefully received and even a small donation can really help us. We would really appreciate if you:

  • Give to the donation boxes at the farm
  • Buy produce, plants or meat
  • Donate via Paypal 

Where can I find the latest Farm news?

If you’d like to receive our regular newsletter, sign up at the bottom of this page.

Stay up to date via twitter, facebook, or Instagram

Who runs the Farm?

A Board of Trustees holds ultimate responsibility for decision-making and ensuring the
Farm meets its charitable objectives, conforms to charity law and complies with Charity Commission regulations.

Day to day running is carried out by staff and volunteers, with operational responsibility to the Chief Executive.

Can I read the farm’s Annual Reports to the Charity Commission?

Yes, here.

Are some Farm animals used for meat?

Yes. Meat from our goats, pigs and sheep is sold once a year. It is an important principle of the Farm to practise and demonstrate humane farming and to teach visitors about where meat comes from.

This is also an important way in which we are becoming more self-sufficient, so that we can continue to keep animals for everyone to enjoy.

What other produce does the Farm sell?

Eggs – chicken, duck, goose and quail – and seasonal fruit and vegetables are available to buy. Our produce is popular: arrive early to avoid disappointment.

Who should I contact for media enquiries ?

Please contact Communications communications@stepneycityfarm.org or call 020 7790 8204

How is the Farm connected to other city farms and growing organisations?

We belong to the Federation of City Farms and Gardens and are members of the Capital Growth network. We meet periodically, including visits to the Capel Manor show
each September.

What’s the building work on the Farm?

Crossrail are on site to build ventilation shafts This requires temporarily occupying Farm land. On completion this will revert to the Farm.  In return for this, Crossrail have funded improvements to fencing and buildings and funded our new barn and Rural Arts Centre.

How long has the Farm been here?

The Farm was first established by local people in 1979 as Stepping Stones Farm. The Farm changed management in 2009 and was required by the Charity Commission to change its name.

Does the Farm sell live animals?

No.

Can I donate an unwanted animal?

No. New animals can endanger our existing animals by passing on infections.

Can I get an allotment?

Our 64 allotments are all taken by eligible local people. Our waiting list is very long. However, we constantly review allotment use and take people off the current waiting list as appropriate.

How do I make a complaint?

Download the Complaints policy and procedure here.

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