Bearhouse Alpacas - Alpaca Trekking

The Bearhouse, Sandcombe Wood, Sidbury, Devon, EX10 0QR, England
1-90 Years
Paid

Description

Looking for the best things to do with kids in Sidbury? Bearhouse Alpacas offers an unforgettable family day out centered around friendly, halter-trained animals. Set within the scenic Roncombe Valley in East Devon, this specialized farm lets visitors enjoy guided alpaca trekking through rolling countryside and picturesque woodland tracks.

Standard trekking prices start from £30.00 for adults and £20.00 for children. Booking an appointment in advance is required for all visitors wishing to walk the herd or tour the farm.

If you are looking for the best place for a day out with family and kids that combines outdoor walking with close-up animal encounters, this farm delivers. Its gentle herd, stunning valley views, and relaxed pace make it an ideal destination for nature-loving families.

Features

  • Paid
  • Host birthday parties: Yes

Features

Key Features

  • Guided Alpaca Treks: Scenic walks along steep tracks and country paths accompanied by your own friendly alpaca.
  • Herd Interaction: Opportunities to meet, feed, and learn about a herd of around 60 resident alpacas.
  • Rural Farm Shop: On-site retail offering soft alpaca wool, raw fibre, and warm winter socks.
  • Country Picnic Lawns: Open spaces where families can relax and enjoy packed lunches surrounded by woodland.

Top 5 Highlights

  • The Roncombe Valley Trek: Lead an individual alpaca on a gentle trek through the rolling hills and green pastures of the East Devon countryside.
  • The Alpaca Herd Nursery: Meet mother alpacas and their curious crias (babies) grazing peacefully in the farm's secure paddocks.
  • The On-Farm Fleece Workshop: Discover how soft alpaca fleece is processed, spun, and turned into durable clothing items and yarn.
  • Sandcombe Wood Trails: Explore the tranquil woodland paths surrounding the farm while spotting local wildlife and native plants.
  • The Farm Souvenir Corner: Browse locally made wool products, knitted socks, and keepsakes to remember your day out with the herd.

Facilities

  • Luggage Storage: Not available on-site; visitors are advised to leave large bags in their vehicles.
  • Toilets & Changing Facilities: Basic visitor restroom facilities available on-site near the main reception area.
  • Food Options: No on-site restaurant or café is available, but families are welcome to bring their own picnics.
  • Buggy Parking: Pushchair access is limited due to rough country paths and steep valley tracks; baby carriers are recommended.

Pro-Tips:

  • Book in Advance: Visits and treks operate strictly by appointment only, so phone ahead to secure your preferred time slot.
  • Wear Sturdy Footwear: Valley tracks can be uneven and muddy, so supportive walking shoes or boots are essential for all participants.
  • Check the Weather: Treks take place outdoors across open hillsides, making waterproof jackets or sun protection necessary depending on the season.

Targeted FAQ

  • Is it worth it for toddlers? Alpaca trekking involves walking along uneven rural paths for up to two hours, making it better suited for older children rather than toddlers or pushchair users.
  • How long does a visit take? A standard alpaca trekking experience lasts between 90 minutes to 2 hours, giving families plenty of time to meet the herd and complete the walk.
  • Where is the best place to park? The best place to park is in the dedicated free visitor parking area located directly on-site at the farm entrance.
  • How much does entry cost? Alpaca trekking tickets cost £30.00 for adults and £20.00 for children, while non-walking spectators can join for £12.00 per person.

What to see

Beyond the Main Attraction:

  • The Donkey Sanctuary: World-famous rescue charity offering free entry, walking trails, and family activities located a short drive away near Sidmouth.
  • Jurassic Coast Beaches: Stunning pebble and sandy beaches along the East Devon coastline, ideal for rockpooling and fossil hunting.
  • Historic Honiton Town: Charming market town featuring independent antique shops, tearooms, and heritage buildings nearby.

What Visitors Love:

  • Parents love the intimate, unhurried nature of the treks, giving children a wonderful chance to bond closely with individual animals.
  • The stunning backdrop of the Roncombe Valley provides a peaceful and picturesque escape from busy tourist spots.
  • The knowledgeable farm hosts receive high praise for making the experience engaging and educational for young children.
  • Walking the inquisitive and gentle alpacas makes for fantastic, memorable family photographs.

What Visitors Don't Like:

  • Because visits require a pre-booked appointment, spontaneous drop-in visits are not permitted.
  • The uneven terrain and steep country paths make trekking less suitable for very young toddlers or pushchairs.
  • There is no on-site café, meaning families need to pack their own drinks and snacks.

Attractions & Activities

  • Main Farm Reception: Booking and welcome area for all scheduled trekking appointments.
  • Alpaca Paddock Paddles: Enclosed fields hosting the main breeding and pet herds.
  • Roncombe Valley Walking Routes: Waymarked tracks utilized for 90-minute to 2-hour family treks.
  • On-Site Fibre Store: Retail space selling raw alpaca wool and luxury socks.
  • Farm Picnic Areas: Dedicated grassy spots equipped for family outdoor snacks.
  • Woodland Exploration Paths: Natural footpaths winding through the surrounding timberland.
  • Breeding Stock Viewing Zones: Areas dedicated to viewing prize-winning alpacas and breeding males.
  • Private Event Paddock: Dedicated space used for bespoke family group bookings and educational visits.
  • Farm Parking Area: Free visitor parking bays located directly adjacent to the main entrance.
  • Viewing and Rest Benches: Outdoor seating areas positioned near the main animal enclosures.

New for 2026:

  • Upgraded Farm Welcome Facilities: Refreshed reception and briefing areas for visiting families before treks begin.
  • Expanded Trekking Routes: Newly cleared valley pathways offering even better panoramic views of the Devon hills.
  • Enhanced Sustainable Farming Displays: New educational information boards highlighting eco-friendly alpaca husbandry and land management.

Price

Price: Paid

Price Details

  • Adult: £30.
  • Child: £20.
  • Walker (without Alpaca): £12.

Pricing URL: https://www.bearhousealpacas.co.uk/alpaca-trekking/

Birthday Parties

Offer Birthday Parties: Yes

Birthday Party Details

  •  
  • Information: Bearhouse Alpacas accommodates private group bookings, family celebrations, and bespoke events upon request.
  • Inquiries: Private booking availability, custom trek times, and pricing details can be arranged by contacting the farm directly via email at [email protected] or by calling 01395 597693.
  •  

Monday - Saturday all year round, weather permitting.

Address: The Bearhouse, Sandcombe Wood, Sidbury, Devon, EX10 0QR, England

Post Code: EX10 0QR

Council: Sidbury

County: Devon

  • By Bus: Limited local rural bus services operate near Sidbury, making travel by car essential for reaching the farm.
  • By Car: Located off the A375 in Sandcombe Wood near Sidbury, easily reached via Honiton or Sidmouth (postcode EX10 0QR).
  • Car Parking: Free on-site visitor car parking is available directly at the farm entrance.

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