Thornton Hall Farm: A Fun-Filled Day Out for the Whole Family

We love visiting Thornton Hall Farm as it’s only a short drive from Colne and a really enjoyable place to spend the day. There’s nothing better than saying hello to the animals and exploring the farm, and there’s even indoor and outdoor play facilities for the little ones to blow off steam.

Thornton Hall Farm has a really active calendar of events throughout the year. We’ve visited at Easter and enjoyed all the bunny, chick and egg related fun, and also at Halloween when pumpkin picking and ghouls and ghosts were the order of the day. The team at the farm always put on a variety of events suitable for children of all ages. But even if you’re just visiting on a regular day, there’s lots to keep the whole family occupied with animal feeding, farm safari, jumping pillows and pony rides

Where is Thornton Hall Farm?

Thornton Hall Farm is situated in the beautiful village of Thornton-in-Craven, located in the heart of the picturesque countryside in North Yorkshire, England. The farm is easily accessible by car and is just a short drive away from Skipton, which is known as the Gateway to the Dales. From Colne it is only a 20 minute drive through Foulridge, Kelbrook and Earby.

What are the opening hours?

The farm is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm, with last entry at 4 pm. However, the opening hours may vary during the winter months, so it is advisable to check the website before visiting.

What is there to do for kids here?

There are plenty of activities to keep children entertained at Thornton Hall Farm, making it an ideal family day out. Alongside exploring the animals, kids can enjoy the indoor soft play barn and outdoor play area. There are outdoor jumping pillows (weather permitting) and pedal tractors, which my little boy loved.

There are several options to choose from that are in addition to the entry price, but look really great fun for slightly older kids. We visited most recently with our two year old, so these were a little bit too old for him at the moment, but definitely something we know he’d enjoy as soon as he is able:

• Caterpillar Ride – A purpose made caterpillar barrel ride, pulled by quadbike that takes riders over bumps and loops around the front meadow. Suitable for toddlers all the way up to adults. This costs £2 per ride and payment is via card at the ride. You will find the caterpillar ride in the courtyard of the farm.

• Junior Quadbikes – Experience the fun of riding round on junior quads! Suitable for ages 6-12 on a purpose made track. £5 per ride (payment via card at the ride).

• Farm Safari – This is a 25-minute safari across 200 acres of farmland where you will be able to talk with the farm and visit woodlands, quarry, animal paddocks and deer park. Suitable for all ages £3.50 per person (limited spaces, pre-book at reception on arrival, via card or cash).

What is there to do here if it is raining?

The farm has recently opened a brand new indoor soft play facility, which means there are more indoor options to choose from if the weather is poor.

The soft play area includes:

• A purpose-built 3 story structure

• 4 lane slide plus 3 other slides

• Climbing volcano area with slide

• Electronic go karts*

• A designated baby and toddler area

• Role-play shops

• Sit on rides*

* additional cost applies.

Soft play slots are for 2 hours, the timing of which you select when you book your tickets online.

Are there animals at the farm?

There are plenty of animals to see and interact with at Thornton Hall Farm. On our visits we’ve seen llamas and alpacas, lambs, calves, donkeys, horses, goats, pigs, emu and chickens.

Children can feed the animals if you purchase the designated animal food at reception and follow the signs that tell you which animals are happy to be fed.

There is also a daily schedule of animal encounters, where visitors can learn about the animals, watch them being fed and even stroke or enjoy them sitting on their lap.

My little one was less interested in stroking the guinea pigs and rabbits and more fascinated by the enclosure door and its bolt, but to each their own I suppose!

Is Thornton Hall Farm pram and wheelchair-friendly?

Yes, the farm is pram and wheelchair-friendly, with wide pathways and easy access to all areas. There is disabled parking available at the farm and the car park is large enough for a lot of cars, although it can get busy. We’ve pushed a pram around the farm, inside the barns to view the animals, and the ground was flat and it was wide enough to accommodate the buggy.

The courtyard and barn areas of the farm are not large, so if you have a sling for your baby that might be a better option as you may find the pram not necessary.

Are there toilets with baby change facilities?

Yes, there are toilets on site, including baby change facilities. The toilets are accessed from outdoors in the courtyard, not through the cafe, but they are wheelchair/pram friendly and there are baby change facilities. Just remember to put your coat back on if it’s raining!

Is there somewhere child-friendly to eat?

The farm has a lovely café called The Diner that serves a range of hot and cold food, snacks, and drinks. The café has highchairs and a children’s menu, making it a great place to take a break and refuel during your visit.

The farm has recently invested in its catering facilities and the difference from when we first visited to our recent day there was huge. We were so impressed with The Diner, a modern, light space with plenty of seating and a really impressive menu. Meals were made with fresh ingredients and the quality was great.

The Diner is situated inside the main barn alongside the soft play area, so it’s easy for adults to sit and enjoy a coffee and cake whilst keeping an eye out for their youngsters enjoying the soft play.

Are there picnic facilities at Thornton Hall Farm?

We spotted several picnic tables located throughout the farm, so visitors can bring their own food and enjoy a picnic in the beautiful surroundings. You can’t consume your own food inside The Diner.

How much is it to visit Thornton Hall Farm?

The admission prices vary depending on the time of the week, with discounted rates available for online bookings. As of 2023, the standard weekend admission price for adults is £9.95, children aged 2-16 years old is £12.95, and under 2 years old is £7.95 and under 1s are free. Weekday prices are a little lower. On-the-door costs are £1 more expensive.

We would recommend booking your tickets in advance to ensure availability, ensure the lower ticket price and to select your 2 hour soft play slot.

For the most up to date prices and availability, we would always recommend visiting the website prior to travelling here.

Can you park at the farm?

Yes, there is ample free parking available on site, with designated parking areas for disabled visitors.

How to find out more

Vist the Thornton Hall Farm website for more information or follow them on Facebook for updates on events and special occasions.

Google map of how to get to Thornton Hall Farm

What's your experience at Thornton Hall Farm with the family been like? Share your comments below, or if you have a question feel free to drop them in the comments too.

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