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Barleylands Farm is more than a farm. It is a discovery centre, home to vintage tractors and interactive exhibits. Elsewhere throughout Barleylands Farm Park farmyard animals, birds of prey, two indoor play barns and outdoor play areas can be found.
The Barleylands Craft Village offers a range of craft workshops and individually owned business that are incorporated into the already established play and discovery centre. The large development has proven very successful with both residents and local business.
Now in its 28th year, the Barleylands-based Essex Country Show celebrates all aspects of agricultural history and rural life. Over 50 crafters demonstrate familiar skills such as spinning, hurdlemaking and blacksmithery, to rare skills like coracle-making and clog-making. Animal displays include heavy horses, the Sheep Shearing Show, working dogs and small animal displays. Sites to see include 50 working steam engines and 60 model engines, vintage tractors, cars and motorcycles, model boats on the lake, a threshing demonstration, a specialist food hall, music, arena events, 3 craft marquees, amusements, funfair and over 200 trade stands.
During the colder months, the Farmers Market is held undercover, with the entrance from the main car park leading into the Craft Village. From fresh bread, locally sourced meat and freshly picked vegetables to herbs, flowers and even sauces, there is a wide range of produce from local suppliers and growers.
It is also an education centre that prides itself on its programmes designed to create a better understanding of the importance of farming for children and young persons.
Chris Philpot, director of Barleylands together with Karen Watson, its education officer tell Inspiring People about their drive to provide the excellent services the centre is famed for and what it takes to keep both themselves and their visitors inspired.
You can find out more at www.barleylands.co.uk.
