Guest Review - The Ark Open Farm, Bangor
posted in Days Out, Down, Outdoors |Old McDonald had a Farm
This farm is located between Bangor and Newtownards. Heading along the dual carriage-way its on the left if coming from Bangor – opposite the Somme Heritage Centre.
We visited on a weekday and it was easy enough to park. I would say on a busy Saturday in the summer it could be like wacky races in the car park (which isn’t really very big). Maybe they have additional parking somewhere – if they did I didn’t see it!
Price for adults is £3.70 and £3.00 for kids over three. You can also buy feed for the animals which I think was about 30p per cup. There are loads of chickens running around so the kids loved feeding them. Depending on kids age of your kids, it may be a better idea to hold chicken feed yourself (mine insisted on pouring it all out then wanting another cup).
There is a great selection of animals. Everything from birds to horses. The whole farm is really well set up and very clean. My sister was with me who is a huge animal lover and even she didn’t disapprove of the conditions! The kids got to feed a lamb with a bottle and the staff were all great with the kids. They offer rides on a little Shetland pony (which I think) was £1, both kids really enjoyed it.
One point to note with smaller kids; mine were able to climb easily into the animal pens, I looked round to find him standing beside an alpaca. He is just two and at his size, he easily fitted between bars. Something to watch!
There are loads of places to play. Huge playground and an indoor play area filled with tractors, sand etc. It was a battle for me to get the kids out of this room.
We also had something to eat in the café which was lovely and reasonably priced. The shop sells ‘farm’ type toys, books and a variety of food. You have to walk through the shop to get in and out so you will probably end up having to buy something. Even this was reasonably priced. I bought a book and a small model tractor which I think came to around £3.00.
wow Guest Overview
We had a great day at the Ark open Farm. Loads to do and see, with very friendly helpful staff. I was impressed that although they could probably have charged a lot more for cups of feed, (every child will want a cup or 5) they didn’t. On most days out I find I end up paying above the odds for something – refreshingly not at the Ark.
Stress Level 0 (although see above about parking in summer, could get a bit tricky)
Fun Level 5 (Everyone had a great time, kids loved getting up close to animals)
Cost Level 1 (Its not free but really good value)
