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Hounslow Urban Farm is London's largest community farm. It covers 29 acres and is an important educational resource and new leisure facility for all the family. Visitors can enjoy a variety of colourful and unusual farm animals close-up, including 5 types of pigs, Exmoor ponies, 15 breeds of chicken, goats, rabbits, ducks, geese and lots more. Most of the visitors to the farm are urban residents who have little or no contact with a traditional farm environment or livestock. The farm therefore offers an opportunity for close contact and interaction with a variety of animals in a safe environment. Many of the animals are rare breeds which are in danger of dying out due to intensive farming methods. This was recognised when the project began and the farm now breeds a variety of rare or endangered domestic livestock, for example, cattle, chickens, pigs, ponies, goats and sheep. Rabbits and guinea pigs bred on the farm can be purchased and the farm also sells its own free range eggs. Pig Racing and Animal Handling activities are run every weekend and throughout the school holidays. Animal feeding starts at 3.30pm every day and there is a children's playground and picnic area. The farm shop sells souvenirs to suit all budgets including key rings, pens, masks and toys. The farm also offers a cafe during the weekends, with a range of hot and cold drinks and snacks for sale. |