Jane's Midlife Journey

Farmer Palmer’s markets itself as a farm park. And it is, indeed, much more than just a farm. As well as enabling young children to get up close to farm animals, there are plenty of other, animal themed attractions for them to enjoy. Including a whole host of indoor attractions. So it is a great location for a day out regardless of the weather.

How to get to Farmer Palmer’s

The farm is located 12 miles west of Bournemouth. Head west along the A338/A35 towards Poole. Then take the A350/A35 past Lytchett Minster. Turn left onto Wareham Road and the farm is just ahead on your right.

By Bus

There is a bus stop – Organford, Farmer Palmer’s – just in front of the farm entrance. The No 40 Breezer bus from Poole stops here roughly every hour, as does the No 10 bus from Poole. From Bournemouth, take the m1/m2 to Poole Bus Station and change there. (During the summer, you could catch the 70 Breezer to Poole for a slower, but more scenic journey.)

Access

Although it’s a farm, pathways and surfaces are all either even or ramped, allowing for ease of access.

Parking

There is plenty of free car parking available on site.

Opening Times

Farmer Palmer’s is open daily for most of the year. With the exception of November, when it is closed on Thursdays. Opening times vary. The park usually opens at 9.30 am and stays open until at least 3 pm, later (4 or 5 pm) during peak times.

Price

Prices vary. Expect to pay more at weekends and during school holidays, particularly in summer. Current price ranges are as follows, with online bookings £3 cheaper than paying at the gate.

• Age 3 or over – £16 to £25
• Age 2 – £9 to £25
• Age below 2 – free

Suitable for age

The farm is designed for children up to the age of 8.

Details

Orla loves Farmer Palmer’s so much that her mum bought her an annual pass. These cost £89 for ages 3 to 65 and £44.50 for 2 year olds. Here is a breakdown of some of the attractions available:

Animals

There are plenty of animals. From traditional farm animals like cows and donkeys to the more exotci, including alpacas and deer. There are opportunities to feed some of the animals, such as the goats and deer. You can also hold a guinea pig and even watch pig/goat racing. Orla is fascinated by the goat racing. Pick a favourite and see if he/she can win the race! Or just stare and wonder what the heck is going on?

Most of all, Orla loves cuddling the guinea pigs. She’s a bit small to hold them herself. Younger children can stroke a guinea pig being held by their grown-up.

Outdoor Attractions

The wide range of outdoor attractions include:

• Dinosaur Roar! Discovery Trail
• Tractor rides
• Pedal go karts
• Water play area
• Playground
• Wendy house
• Bouncy castle
• Trim trail
• Maize maze (August to October)

Orla really enjoys the pedal go karts. These two seater vehicles accommodate an adult and a child for some family fun on the track.

The Dinosaur Roar! Discovery Trail is also a big hit. Based on the Dinosaur Roar! books, the trail features several life size dinosaurs for children to explore.

Indoor Attractions

Even if the weather’s bad, there’s plenty to do here. Indoor attractions include:

• Pedal tractors
• Bouncy castle
• Fun barn
• Straw Mountain
• Soft play

Orla particularly enjoys Straw Mountain; a barn packed with straw bales incorporating tunnels and slides.

Food & Drink

There is a restaurant, the Hen House, on site. This offers breakfast and lunch, including hot meals, picnic boxes and grazing boards, plus cakes, ice creams and drinks. Alternatively, there are picnic tables at various spots throughout the farm.

Toilets/Changing Facilities

There are toilets with changing facilities at several spots throughout the farm.

• Updated: May 2025

For more inspiration on things to do in and around Bournemouth with young children, check out my 101 Things to do in Bournemouth with Babies and Toddlers here.