With those April showers giving way to the warmer temperatures of May, the wildflowers are really starting to take hold – something I’m sure hasn’t escaped the notice of my fellow hay fever sufferers! Of course, while I may be bemoaning my pollen allergy, the pollinators are really beginning to make their presence known – from red tailed bees, to buff tailed bumble bees, to holly blue butterflies. It’s no wonder this is the month Plantlife chooses to run their ‘No Mow May’ campaign, which calls upon all gardeners to leave their lawns for a month, and allow a flowery feast for the pollinators to grow.
Spring is always a delightful time here on the farm, as we have the privilege of seeing our very own array of wildflowers pop up all over the landscape. The fields certainly do look lovely when they’re adorned with red clover, buttercups and daisies. We are also very proud of the annual carpet of bluebells which pops up all over our woodland, wellie walk and Mott and Bailey site, for a few weeks between April and May.
Our farm trails are free to access and take you all over the farm site, including up to the woodland where younger wanderers can enjoy roaming free – building dens, swinging on the tyre swing, and spotting feathered friends from our bird hide. Pop into our newly constructed welcome shed, in the play area by the main carpark, and a map will point you in the right direction to get started exploring. Worry not if you think you may get peckish, we happily welcome picnickers – grab one of our benches, or bring a blanket and enjoy from the shade of your carefully selected tree; and if you have four legged friends bring them along too – doggies on leads are more than welcome to accompany you!
If those with littler legs still need encouragement to adventure further, we are always running fun seasonal trails! Trail packs are available from both the farm shop and the café for just £2.50, and always include several activity pages, a trail map, a pencil and a sweet treat. We have recently launched trail passports too, and when all stamps have been collected these can be redeemed for a farm animal soft toy – don’t forget to collect your stamp when you visit!
Excitingly, in recent months we managed to acquire an all-terrain mobility ‘Tramper’, which allows those with mobility issues to explore and access a wider area of the farm, and be immersed in the landscape. Hire is on a self-lead basis, and hirers must be accompanied by another person, be it family, friend or carer. For more info please visit: www.fordhallfarm.com/tramper
Francesca Lant
Marketing and Communications Officer