Colleen C.
Yelp
I grew up in a small(ish) town in what some might call "the country." I didn't grow up on a farm, but it wasn't hard to find one nearby...
And sometimes big cities can feel a bit -- lacking in the farm life, if you know what I mean? No? Ok maybe just me? Sorry, bear with me!
Hackney City Farm is a delight. It's a small little agri-enclave carved out of Haggerston Park, easily accessible, child-friendly and charming. On a recent walk up to Broadway Market we took a few moments to peruse the poultry (live, of course!) and piggies, and gallop with the goats. Ok, not really galloping but I like alliteration.
It's very well kept, albeit small (obviously -- we ARE in London). There are many signs telling what behavior is or is not ok.
For the record:
*leave the farm cats alone! There are about 100 signs saying this, I assume this means someone was mauled by an angry farm cat back in the day, so best to leave these buggers to chasing mice and laying in the sun. Look only, no touching. If you want to pet a cat, adopt one from Battersea Cat Home. (good idea!)
*This kind of goes for all the animals. Don't try to pet them. They aren't dogs. They are fun to look at -- and an oddity in the middle of a city, but it doesn't mean that the goats want to be bothered either. Just say hello. They probably are fine with that.
*Shhhhh! They already have to deal with traffic and annoying sounds. They aren't fragile, but don't shout at any of the farm inhabitants.
*WASH YOUR HANDS before leaving. There are sinks and also toilets if you need them (pro-tip if you are around this area as well, they aren't very bad if you are in a pinch!)
Anyway...
There is also a nice farm cafe (Frizzante) that I will be back to check out + seasonally they offer eggs, etc right from the farm. Regardless this is a nice little stop on a walk or a good place to take the kids for 20 minutes before they try to pet a farm cat, then it's time to go.