How to Visit Hackney City Farm

Hackney City Farm is more than just a green space in the heart of East London—it’s a living, breathing testament to urban agriculture, community resilience, and environmental education. Nestled in the bustling borough of Hackney, this award-winning farm welcomes thousands of visitors each year, from families seeking a weekend escape to school groups learning about sustainable food systems. Yet, despite its popularity and accessibility, many people remain unsure of how to plan a visit, what to expect, or how to make the most of their time there. This comprehensive guide demystifies the process of visiting Hackney City Farm, offering clear, actionable steps, insider tips, and practical resources to ensure your experience is seamless, enriching, and memorable.

Whether you’re a local resident looking for a peaceful retreat, a tourist exploring London’s hidden gems, or an educator designing a curriculum-linked outing, understanding the logistics and ethos of Hackney City Farm is essential. This guide doesn’t just tell you how to get there—it shows you how to connect with the farm’s mission, respect its rhythms, and contribute to its sustainability. By the end of this tutorial, you’ll have everything you need to plan a meaningful visit that aligns with the farm’s values and your own interests.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Confirm Opening Hours and Seasonal Variations

Before you set out, verify the current opening hours. Hackney City Farm operates on a seasonal schedule, with extended hours during spring and summer and more limited access in autumn and winter. Typically, the farm is open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with last entry at 4:30 PM. However, these times can change due to weather, special events, or staff availability. Always check the official website or social media channels before your visit.

During school holidays and public holidays, the farm often hosts additional activities, which may require advance booking. Weekends and bank holidays are the busiest times, so if you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting on a weekday morning. The farm is closed on Christmas Day and occasionally for emergency maintenance—always double-check before planning a trip.

2. Plan Your Route and Transportation

Hackney City Farm is located at 100 Cambridge Heath Road, London E2 9QA. It’s easily accessible by public transport, car, bike, or on foot. Here are your best options:

• By Tube: The nearest Underground station is Bethnal Green on the Central Line (Zone 2). From there, it’s a 15-minute walk along Cambridge Heath Road. Alternatively, use Haggerston Station on the London Overground (Zone 2), which is a 10-minute walk.
• By Bus: Buses 26, 48, 55, 106, 242, 276, and 309 all stop within a 5-minute walk of the farm entrance. Check Transport for London’s journey planner for real-time updates.
• By Bike: The farm has secure bike racks near the main entrance. It’s located just off the National Cycle Network Route 1, making it ideal for cyclists. Consider using Santander Cycles (London’s bike-share scheme), with docking stations nearby at Cambridge Heath Road and Bethnal Green.
• By Car: There is no public parking on-site. Limited on-street parking is available in surrounding residential areas, but it’s strictly regulated with time limits and permit zones. If driving, consider using nearby paid parking facilities such as the Cambridge Heath Road Car Park or the Bethnal Green Green Space Car Park. Be sure to check signage carefully to avoid fines.

For visitors with mobility needs, the farm is fully wheelchair accessible, with paved pathways and ramps throughout. Wheelchairs and mobility scooters can be borrowed on a first-come, first-served basis—contact the farm in advance to reserve one.

3. Check for Special Events and Bookings

Hackney City Farm hosts a rotating calendar of events, workshops, and volunteer days. These include seasonal festivals, animal feeding sessions, gardening clinics, and educational programs for schools and community groups. Some events require advance registration, while others are drop-in.

Visit the “What’s On” section of the official website to view upcoming activities. Popular events such as the Spring Lambing Festival, Harvest Day, and Christmas Craft Fair often fill up quickly. If you’re bringing a group of 10 or more, you must book in advance to ensure adequate staffing and resources. The farm encourages group bookings to be made at least two weeks ahead of your intended visit.

Even if you’re not attending a formal event, check for “Volunteer Days” or “Farm Open Days.” These are excellent opportunities to meet staff, learn behind-the-scenes details, and participate in hands-on activities like composting, planting, or animal care.

4. Prepare for Your Visit

What you bring can significantly enhance your experience. Here’s a checklist:

• Weather-appropriate clothing: The farm is outdoors and exposed to the elements. Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes—mud is common, especially after rain. Bring a waterproof jacket or umbrella in winter and spring.
• Reusable water bottle: Tap water is available at the farm’s café and near the animal enclosures. Refilling stations reduce single-use plastic waste.
• Snacks and picnic items: While the farm café offers hot and cold food, bringing your own picnic is encouraged. There are designated picnic areas under trees and near the herb garden.
• Camera or smartphone: The farm is photogenic—don’t miss the alpacas, goats, chickens, and the historic farm buildings.
• Small change or contactless payment: Donations are welcome but not mandatory. The farm operates as a charity and relies on visitor contributions to maintain operations.
• Children’s activities: If visiting with kids, bring coloring sheets or a nature journal. The farm provides free activity sheets at the entrance, but having your own can reduce wait times.

For visitors with allergies or dietary restrictions, the café offers gluten-free, vegan, and dairy-free options. Inform staff upon arrival if you have specific needs—they’re happy to accommodate.

5. Arrive and Check In

Upon arrival, head to the main entrance on Cambridge Heath Road. You’ll see a large wooden gate with a sign reading “Hackney City Farm.” There is no ticket booth or entry fee—donations are voluntary and appreciated. A friendly volunteer or staff member will greet you and offer a free map of the farm layout.

Take a moment to read the welcome board near the entrance. It lists current animal residents, upcoming events, and important notices (e.g., “Duck pond closed for maintenance” or “New lambs born this week”). This information helps you tailor your visit.

Don’t rush. The farm is designed to be explored slowly. Start with the animal enclosures—they’re the most popular and often the most rewarding. Follow the marked walking paths to avoid disturbing sensitive areas like the vegetable gardens or composting zones.

6. Explore the Farm Zones

Hackney City Farm is divided into distinct zones, each with its own character and purpose:

• Animal Enclosures: Meet goats, sheep, pigs, alpacas, rabbits, chickens, ducks, and even a donkey named Dolly. Each enclosure has educational signage explaining the animal’s breed, diet, and role in sustainable farming. Feeding times are posted—don’t feed animals unless instructed. Bring carrots or lettuce from home if you want to participate in supervised feeding.
• Vegetable and Herb Gardens: These are grown organically using permaculture principles. Look for seasonal produce like kale, tomatoes, strawberries, and herbs. Volunteers often give impromptu tours here—ask if you’d like to learn about companion planting or soil health.
• The Orchard: Home to apple, pear, and plum trees. In autumn, visitors can help pick fruit for the farm’s preserves. The orchard is also a quiet spot for reflection and birdwatching.
• The Composting Area: See how food waste from the café and local households is transformed into nutrient-rich soil. This is a key part of the farm’s zero-waste mission.
• The Education Barn: Used for workshops, school visits, and community meetings. Even if you’re not attending a session, the barn often has exhibits on urban farming, biodiversity, and climate action.
• The Café and Shop: The café serves locally sourced coffee, soups, sandwiches, and cakes. The shop sells farm-grown produce, handmade soaps, books on urban gardening, and children’s toys made from recycled materials.

Take your time in each zone. Sit on a bench, observe the animals, listen to the birds, and breathe in the scent of soil and herbs. This is not a theme park—it’s a working farm with real rhythms and quiet moments.

7. Engage Responsibly

Hackney City Farm thrives on respect. Follow these simple rules to ensure a positive experience for everyone:

• Never enter animal enclosures unless invited by staff.
• Do not feed animals unless given approved food—human snacks can make them sick.
• Keep dogs on a short leash (if allowed) and clean up after them. Dogs are permitted only in designated areas.
• Stay on marked paths to protect fragile plants and soil.
• Dispose of litter properly—even biodegradable items like apple cores can disrupt local wildlife.
• Keep noise levels low, especially near sleeping animals or quiet zones.
• Ask before taking photos of people, especially children or volunteers.

These aren’t just rules—they’re part of the farm’s culture of care. By following them, you help preserve the environment and support the community that makes the farm possible.

8. Make a Donation or Become a Supporter

Hackney City Farm is a registered charity (No. 1089451) and receives no regular government funding. It survives on visitor donations, grants, and the dedication of volunteers. While entry is free, a £5–£10 donation per adult (or £2–£5 per child) helps cover food for animals, maintenance of buildings, and educational programs.

You can donate at the café, via the donation box near the entrance, or online through the website. Consider becoming a “Friend of the Farm” for £35 per year—you’ll receive a welcome pack, invitations to exclusive events, and a quarterly newsletter.

If you’re inspired by the farm’s mission, you can also volunteer. No experience is needed—training is provided. Opportunities include animal care, gardening, event support, and administrative help. Visit the “Get Involved” page on their website to sign up.

9. Leave with Purpose

Before you depart, take a moment to reflect. What did you learn? What surprised you? Did you discover a new appreciation for where food comes from? Consider sharing your experience on social media using

HackneyCityFarm to help spread awareness.

If you enjoyed the produce or crafts from the shop, consider buying something to support the farm financially. Even a small purchase helps sustain the mission. If you’re planning to return, note down the next event you’d like to attend—many visitors become regulars because they love the rhythm and community of the place.

And if you’re a parent, teacher, or community leader, consider organizing a group visit. Schools and youth groups can apply for subsidized or free educational visits through the farm’s outreach program.

Best Practices

1. Visit with Intention, Not Just Curiosity

Many visitors treat Hackney City Farm like a zoo or a park. While it’s beautiful and fun, it’s also a working urban farm with a mission: to reconnect people with food, nature, and each other. Approach your visit with curiosity and respect. Ask questions. Talk to volunteers. Learn about the animals’ names and histories. This transforms a casual outing into a meaningful experience.

2. Time Your Visit for Quiet Moments

Weekend afternoons are lively but crowded. For a more serene experience, arrive between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM on a weekday. Early mornings are when staff are feeding animals and tending the gardens—ideal for quiet observation. You’ll see the farm in its most authentic state.

3. Bring a Notebook or Journal

Document your visit. Sketch the animals, write down facts you learn, or jot down questions you want to research later. This deepens your connection and turns a visit into a learning opportunity. Many teachers and parents use the farm as a living classroom—and you can too.

4. Support Local and Sustainable Choices

When you buy from the café or shop, you’re supporting local food systems. Choose seasonal produce, avoid single-use packaging, and opt for items made from recycled or natural materials. Your purchasing decisions align with the farm’s values and reinforce its economic model.

5. Respect the Animals’ Rhythms

Animals rest, eat, and socialize on their own schedules. Don’t be disappointed if a goat is napping or chickens are dust-bathing. These are natural behaviors, not signs of neglect. Observe quietly. The most rewarding moments often come from patience, not activity.

6. Learn the Language of Urban Farming

Terms like “permaculture,” “composting,” “pollinator-friendly planting,” and “regenerative agriculture” may be new. Don’t be afraid to ask what they mean. The staff and volunteers are passionate educators and love sharing knowledge. Understanding these concepts helps you appreciate the farm’s broader environmental impact.

7. Share Your Experience Thoughtfully

When posting photos online, avoid tagging or identifying children or volunteers without permission. Instead, focus on the environment, animals, and activities. Use captions to educate others: “Learned today that chickens help control pests naturally—no chemicals needed!” This turns your post into a tool for awareness.

8. Return Regularly

Hackney City Farm changes with the seasons. In spring, you’ll see newborn lambs; in summer, the gardens are bursting with color; in autumn, the orchard yields fruit; in winter, the composting system is busiest. Visit multiple times to witness the full cycle of life on the farm. Each visit offers something new.

9. Involve Your Community

Bring friends, neighbors, or coworkers. Organize a group visit. Encourage others to learn about urban agriculture. The more people who understand the value of city farms, the stronger the movement becomes. Hackney City Farm isn’t just a place—it’s a movement.

10. Advocate for More Urban Farms

If you’re moved by your visit, consider writing to your local council or community group to support the creation of similar spaces in your area. Urban farms like this one reduce food miles, improve mental health, and foster biodiversity. Your voice can help expand this vital network.

Tools and Resources

Official Website

The primary resource for planning your visit is the official website: www.hackneycityfarm.org. Here you’ll find:

• Current opening hours and holiday closures
• Upcoming events and booking forms
• Volunteer sign-up portal
• Donation options and membership details
• Downloadable maps and activity sheets
• Educational resources for teachers

The site is updated weekly and mobile-friendly, making it easy to check details on the go.

Mobile App and Digital Map

While Hackney City Farm doesn’t have a dedicated app, it offers a downloadable PDF map on its website. This map includes labeled zones, accessible routes, rest areas, and restroom locations. Print it or save it to your phone before arriving.

Transport for London (TfL) Journey Planner

Use the TfL website or app to plan your route: www.tfl.gov.uk. Enter “Hackney City Farm” as your destination and select your starting point. The planner provides real-time bus and train times, walking directions, and accessibility info.

Google Maps and Street View

Search “Hackney City Farm” on Google Maps. The pin is accurate, and Street View lets you preview the entrance, surrounding streets, and nearby landmarks. This is especially helpful if you’re unfamiliar with the area.

Social Media Channels

Follow Hackney City Farm on:

• Instagram: @hackneycityfarm — daily photos, animal updates, event teasers
• Facebook: Hackney City Farm — event announcements, volunteer calls, community stories
• TikTok: @hackneycityfarm — short videos of baby animals, gardening tips, behind-the-scenes

These platforms are invaluable for spotting last-minute changes, weather-related closures, or special pop-up events.

Local Community Boards

Check local noticeboards at nearby libraries, community centers, and cafes. The farm often partners with local organizations like Hackney Council, the London Wildlife Trust, and community gardens to host joint events. These are rarely advertised on the main website.

Books and Educational Materials

For deeper learning, explore:

• “The Urban Farm Handbook” by Jo Robinson — practical guide to city gardening
• “City Farms: Urban Agriculture for a Sustainable Future” by Anna M. Lawton — case studies from global urban farms
• “The Book of Farmyard Friends” by David Attenborough — children’s book featuring animals found at Hackney City Farm

These are often available in the farm’s shop or local libraries.

Volunteer and Education Programs

For educators and community leaders:

• Free School Visits: Bookable for KS1–KS4 groups. Curriculum-linked sessions on food, sustainability, and biology.
• Adult Workshops: Topics include composting, beekeeping, and urban permaculture.
• Volunteer Training Days: Held monthly—no experience required.

All programs are listed on the website under “Education & Outreach.”

Real Examples

Example 1: The Smith Family – First-Time Visitors

The Smiths, a family of four from South London, visited Hackney City Farm on a Saturday morning in April. They had never been to a city farm before. Their 7-year-old daughter, Maya, was fascinated by the goats. She learned they eat weeds instead of pesticides and helped feed them carrots provided by the farm. The family donated £15, bought a jar of honey from the shop, and signed up for the monthly newsletter. Two weeks later, they returned for the Spring Egg Hunt. Maya now asks to visit every weekend. “It’s not just fun,” she says. “It’s where I learned where my eggs come from.”

Example 2: A Teacher’s Field Trip

Ms. Patel, a Year 4 teacher at St. Mary’s Primary School, organized a term-long project on food systems. Her class visited Hackney City Farm in October. They planted garlic bulbs, collected eggs, and interviewed a volunteer about composting. Back at school, they created a “Farm to Classroom” display and wrote letters to the council asking for more urban green spaces. The farm provided free educational packs and followed up with a post-visit quiz. The project received a district-wide award for environmental education.

Example 3: A Retiree’s New Routine

After retiring, George from Stoke Newington began volunteering at Hackney City Farm twice a week. He started by weeding the herb garden and now leads guided tours for school groups. “I didn’t know anything about farming,” he says. “But I love being outside, talking to kids, and seeing how much they light up when they meet a pig for the first time.” George has become a fixture at the farm—his stories about Dolly the donkey are now legendary.

Example 4: A Tourist’s Unexpected Discovery

Emma, a student from Canada, was exploring London when she stumbled upon Hackney City Farm. She’d expected museums and landmarks, not a working farm with alpacas. She spent three hours there, took photos, and shared them on Instagram. Her post went viral among her friends back home. “I didn’t know cities could have farms like this,” she wrote. “It made me rethink what ‘nature’ means.” She later returned with her parents and donated to the farm’s animal care fund.

Example 5: A Community Initiative

In 2023, a local residents’ association partnered with Hackney City Farm to launch “Grow Together”—a program offering free gardening kits and weekly workshops to families in social housing. The farm provided seeds, tools, and expert guidance. Within six months, over 120 households had planted their own vegetable patches. The project reduced food insecurity and created new community bonds. It’s now a model for other boroughs.

FAQs

Is there an entry fee to visit Hackney City Farm?

No, entry is free. However, the farm is a charity and relies on voluntary donations to operate. A suggested donation of £5 per adult or £2 per child helps feed the animals and maintain the grounds.

Can I bring my dog?

Dogs are allowed only in designated areas and must be kept on a short leash at all times. They are not permitted in animal enclosures, the café, or near the vegetable gardens. Please clean up after your pet.

Are there toilets and baby changing facilities?

Yes, accessible toilets and baby changing facilities are available near the café and the main entrance. They are cleaned daily and maintained to high standards.

Can I feed the animals?

You may feed the animals only with food provided by the farm or approved by staff. Bringing your own food (like bread or cookies) can be harmful. Carrots and lettuce are safe and available for purchase at the café.

Is the farm suitable for children?

Yes! The farm is designed for all ages. There are animal encounters, sensory gardens, play areas, and free activity sheets for kids. Toddlers and teens alike find something to enjoy.

Can I bring a picnic?

Yes! There are several picnic tables and shaded areas under trees. Please use the bins provided and avoid littering.

Do I need to book in advance?

Individual visitors do not need to book. However, groups of 10 or more (including schools, clubs, or corporate teams) must book at least two weeks ahead. Events and workshops also require registration.

Is the farm wheelchair accessible?

Yes. All main paths are paved and flat. Ramps lead to all buildings, and wheelchairs are available to borrow. Contact the farm in advance to reserve one.

What happens if it rains?

The farm remains open in most weather. Many animals are housed in covered enclosures, and the café and education barn are indoors. Bring waterproof clothing and sturdy shoes. In extreme weather (e.g., storms or flooding), the farm may temporarily close for safety—check social media for updates.

Can I volunteer without experience?

Absolutely. No prior farming experience is needed. Training is provided, and volunteers of all ages and backgrounds are welcome. Whether you can spare an hour or a full day, your help matters.

How is Hackney City Farm different from a zoo?

Unlike a zoo, Hackney City Farm is a working agricultural site focused on sustainability, education, and community. The animals are not for display—they are part of a food and land system. Visitors learn about their care, diet, and role in the ecosystem, not just observe them.

Can I adopt an animal?

While you can’t take an animal home, you can sponsor one through the farm’s “Adopt an Animal” program. For a small annual donation, you’ll receive a certificate, photos, and updates about your chosen animal.

Conclusion

Visiting Hackney City Farm is more than a trip—it’s an immersion into a different way of living. In a city where concrete dominates and food comes wrapped in plastic, this farm stands as a quiet rebellion: a place where soil is tended, animals are cared for, and communities are built around the simple act of growing food together. Whether you come for the goats, the gardens, or the sense of peace, you leave with something deeper: an understanding of how urban life can be more connected, more sustainable, and more human.

This guide has walked you through every practical step—from transportation and timing to respectful engagement and long-term support. But the real journey begins when you step through the wooden gate. Listen to the chickens cluck. Feel the earth beneath your feet. Ask a volunteer why they’re here. Let the farm change you, even in small ways.

Hackney City Farm doesn’t just welcome visitors—it invites you to belong. And in a world that often feels disconnected, that’s a gift worth seeking out again and again.