Description
Rays Farm Country Matters is a high-quality farm visitor attraction set in a beautiful wooded valley in the Shropshire countryside near Bridgnorth. This family-run farm offers a unique blend of animal encounters and woodland exploration, making it a standout choice for those seeking a tranquil but active day in nature. As a premier destination for families in the West Midlands, it provides a chance to swap town life for ancient woodlands, winding pathways, and a diverse collection of birds and animals.
Visiting is a value-driven experience with adult tickets priced at £8.50 and children (ages 1–15) at just £6.95, while babies under one can join the fun for free. The farm is famous for its relaxed atmosphere, where children can engage in an educational day out by hand-feeding deer or exploring the mythical wood carvings hidden throughout the forest.
If you are looking for the best things to do with kids in Shropshire, Rays Farm Country Matters offers an immersive outdoor experience. It is an ideal setting for active play and discovery, featuring multiple play areas, the largest private collection of owls in the county, and a unique wood sculpture trail that brings fairytale characters to life in the heart of the woods.
Features
- Paid
- Host birthday parties: No
Features
Experience Features
- Animal Encounters: Home to a wide range of farmyard friends including pygmy goats, ponies, donkeys, alpacas, and reindeer.
- Wood Sculpture Trails: Two unique trails—the Nursery Rhyme trail for younger children and the Myth and Magic trail featuring dragons and trolls for older explorers.
- Shropshire’s Largest Owl Collection: An extensive and impressive collection of owls, with many rare species to observe.
- Ancient Woodland Walks: Eight acres of ancient woodland featuring wild flowers, ferns, and a wild bird viewing hide.
- Sandy Mini Beach: A popular play area located near the coffee shop where children of all ages can enjoy sand play.
What makes Rays Farm Country Matters unique?
- Hand-Feeding Deer: Unlike many farms, Rays Farm allows visitors the rare opportunity to hand-feed friendly deer in a natural setting.
- Mythical Woodcarvings: Over 40 unique wood carvings are scattered throughout the valley, including a storytelling witch and Billy Goat Gruff.
- Quiet Countryside Haven: The farm is known for its "sound of silence," providing a peaceful atmosphere that contrasts with high-energy theme parks.
- Dual Play Areas: Facilities include a wooden activity trail near the courtyard for general play and a more daring Forest Play Area with climbing ropes and den building.
- Year-Round Appeal: From spring wildflowers to a special festive atmosphere with reindeer during the Christmas season.
Specific Attractions & Features
- Nursery Rhyme Wood: Features classic characters like Humpty Dumpty and Little Miss Muffet carved from wood.
- Myth and Magic Trail: A deeper woodland path where you can "meet" a dragon and a troll under the bridge.
- The Owl Sanctuary: Large aviaries housing a significant variety of owl species.
- Goat & Animal Paddocks: Accessible areas to see pigs, sheep, and the farm's friendly herd of pygmy goats.
- Wooden Play Area: An adventure-themed playground with equipment suitable for multiple age groups.
- Toddler Play Zone: A separate area with smaller, age-appropriate equipment for under-fives.
Beyond the Main Attraction
- Severn Valley Railway: A heritage steam railway running through the Shropshire countryside, accessible from nearby Bridgnorth.
- Dudmaston Estate: A National Trust property featuring a historic hall and landscaped gardens just a few miles away.
- Bridgnorth Cliff Railway: Britain’s oldest and steepest funicular railway connecting the High Town and Low Town of Bridgnorth.
- Go Ape Wyre Forest: High-ropes and forest adventures located a short drive south towards Kidderminster.
4.66 miles
