Kirkton Farm is set to welcome more than 800 visitors as it opens its gates to the public for the very first time on Sunday 8 June, taking part in the national Open Farm Sunday initiative. This marks a major milestone for the Aberdeenshire farm, offering a unique opportunity for visitors of all ages to experience life on a working farm.
Organised by LEAF (Linking Environment and Farming), Open Farm Sunday offers families and individuals the chance to explore where their food comes from, discover how it’s produced, and meet the people at the heart of it all – the farmers. Entry is completely free, with a packed day of engaging activities planned.
Visitors will be able to take a tractor and trailer tour of the farm, stopping along the way to enjoy a sheepdog demonstration, see the cows, and identify a variety of cereal and vegetable crops. The machinery shed will have a display of tractors from ‘through-the-ages’ and kids can also enjoy a hands-on play in a giant sandpit.
Kirkton Farm will be joined by Forest Farm Dairy, the Willis family will bring their dairy calves, along with some of their popular homemade gelato to buy. Meanwhile, the Royal Northern Countryside Initiative’s ‘Countryside Classroom on Wheels’ will offer engaging and educational experiences that bring the world of farming to life. Members of the Inverurie and District Young Farmers Club will be on hand to talk about what the club has to offer, and CC Powell’s Country Store will hold a stand for visitors to purchase farm toys and clothing.
A selection of hot meals and refreshments will be available for purchase from Marshalls Farm Shop caterers, ensuring visitors are well-fuelled for a full day of exploring and learning.
Scott Campbell, farmer and host at Kirkton Farm, said: “We are thrilled to welcome visitors to our family farm for Open Farm Sunday. This is our first time taking part, and we’re looking forward to sharing the story of how our food is produced, the science behind modern farming, and the essential role agriculture plays in everyday life.
“My family and our fantastic team will be on hand throughout the day to answer questions and offer a behind-the-scenes look at our busy farm.”
Now in its 19th year, Open Farm Sunday is the farming industry’s annual open day, with over 180,000 people attending events across the UK in 2024. Each event is unique, offering insights into different farming practices and environments.
Annabel Shackleton, Open Farm Sunday Manager, added: “Open Farm Sunday is a wonderful opportunity for visitors of all ages to connect with farming and the people who make it happen. Every farm has its own story, and events like these bring those stories to life in a way that’s fun, educational, and inspiring.”
To learn more about the event at Kirkton Farm, please visit https://farmsunday.org/visit-a-farm/shareEvent/80060 or find their event page ‘Open Farm Sunday’ on Facebook to keep up to date with the latest announcements.
Open Farm Sunday is managed by LEAF (Linking Environment And Farming), the leading organisation delivering more sustainable food and farming.