Freightliners Farm is a hidden gem of a neighbourhood farm with cows, bunnies, sheep, goats, chickens, and a lovely vegetarian cafe. A perfect stop on your weekend walk getting a break from city life.
Perfect break with small children
The city-farm is one of the smallest ones in London, perfect for small children toddling around without getting too tired. Farm staff runs the local Strawbale Cafe and volunteers are serving artisan teas and coffees, soft drinks, vegetarian lunches and farm baked cakes. Farm produce is used in the cafe, but can also be bought occasionally when in season. There is also a lovely garden, where you can sit and enjoy a small piece of the countryside in the city.
Why the name Freightliners Farm
If you are curious about the farm’s name, it comes from the startup days back in the 1970s. According to Wikipedia, the farm started on a former wasteland behind King’s Cross station in 1973. And because the animals were housed in railway goods vans, Freightliners seemed like the right name for the farm. In 1978 the far was moved to Islington at its present location.
How to support the farm
The farm gets a thumbs up from our side, especially when it comes to visiting with young children under the age of 7. Older kids will probably run out of patience rather quickly because of the compact size. Don’t forget that the farm is a registered charity that is entirely dependent on donations, support from the borough and volunteers helping out. The farm’s website has listed five methods for you to take action if you want to support them:
- Donate
- Co-found their classroom renovation project
- Sponsor their marathon runners
- Volunteer with their office or organisation
- Publicise what’s going on at the farm
Attractions nearby
Just opposite the farm, you’ll find a park as well as a playground, which helps extend the day out. If you want to visit another farm, Kentish Town is not too far away. A bit further northwest Hamstead Heath is a great place to be outdoors, whether going for a hike through the woods or kiteflying on Parliament Hill.
Don’t forget to check the rest of the London City Farms we have rated, as well as our favourite playgrounds!
Key Information Freightliners Urban Farm
- Free entry
- Outdoor
- Type: City Farm
- Borough: Islington
- Area: North London
- Tube: Highbury & Islington
- Nearby: Kentish Town City Farm
- Farm website