Best Petting Farms & Zoos to Visit with Kids in 2025 – Affordable Family Days Out Across the UK
Looking for a fun, affordable day out with the kids this year? We’ve rounded up the best-rated petting farms and family-friendly zoos in the UK for 2025 that your little ones will absolutely love—and that won’t leave your wallet weeping.
From cuddly goats and cheeky alpacas to tractor rides and adventure playgrounds, these farms are packed with hands-on fun. Even better? Many of them offer great value, with tickets under £10 if you book smart. Whether you’re in Yorkshire, Devon, or Wales, there’s a budget-friendly animal adventure near you.
Here are the top picks for child-friendly petting farms in 2025, including entry prices, location tips, and some money-saving hacks thrown in for good measure.
1. Pennywell Farm – Devon
📍 Buckfastleigh, Devon
💸 Around £17.95 per adult, £15.95 per child (under 3s go free)
This award-winning farm is a firm favourite for families in the South West. With over 150 animals and new activities every 30 minutes, you’ll never hear the words “I’m bored!” From cuddling miniature pigs (yep, it’s as cute as it sounds) to bottle-feeding lambs, there’s loads for little ones to get stuck into.
Money Saver Tip: Book online in advance for a discount—and check their events calendar for themed days included in your ticket!
2. Cannon Hall Farm – South Yorkshire
📍 Barnsley, South Yorkshire
💸 From £10.95–£13.95 per person (free for under 2s)
Cannon Hall is one of Yorkshire’s most popular family farms—and it’s easy to see why. There’s a massive adventure playground, a reptile house, and regular sheep and ferret races (seriously!). Plus, it’s a real working farm with plenty of animals to meet and feed.
Money Saver Tip: Keep an eye out for family bundle deals or off-peak discounts, especially during term time.
3. Piglets Adventure Farm – York
📍 Towthorpe, near York
💸 Around £12.95–£15.95 per ticket (babies under 1 go free)
If your kids are full of energy, Piglets is a winner. It’s packed with outdoor fun like bouncing pillows, barrel rides, a fairy trail, and seasonal maize mazes. Of course, there’s a lovely animal barn too, where they can meet piglets, chicks, goats and more.
Money Saver Tip: Visit midweek or during off-peak times for lower prices. They also run seasonal ticket offers via their email list.
4. Swithens Farm – Leeds
📍 Rothwell, Leeds
💸 Entry from £6 per person (under 2s free; feed bags £1)
This one’s a hidden gem and super budget-friendly. You’ll find alpacas, goats, pigs, ponies—and even meerkats! There’s a great little café and an indoor soft play area (perfect if the weather turns).
Money Saver Tip: Carrot feeding is just £1, so it’s easy to give the kids an extra treat without overspending. And no pricey extras once you're in!
5. Croxteth Park Farm – Liverpool
📍 Croxteth Hall & Country Park, Liverpool
💸 Entry from £6 per person (animal feed £2)
This one’s been described by locals as a “hidden treasure”. Small but mighty, it’s perfect for younger children who want to get close to animals like guinea pigs, rabbits, sheep, and Highland cows. Staff are super friendly too—which always makes a difference!
Money Saver Tip: Parking is free in the park, and you can bring your own picnic to save on lunch.
BONUS: Folly Farm Adventure Park & Zoo – Pembrokeshire, Wales
📍 Kilgetty, Pembrokeshire
💸 £17.95 per adult, £15.95 per child (family tickets available)
Okay, this one’s a little more than a petting zoo—it’s a full-on family day out with animals, fairground rides, soft play, and a mini zoo. It even has lions and penguins! But inside the Jolly Barn is where you’ll find all the farm favourites, from lambs to donkeys.
Money Saver Tip: Buy your tickets online for a cheaper rate, and check their website for multi-day or return-visit discounts.
💰 Top Tips to Save Money on Petting Farm Days Out
Pack your own lunch – Most farms are picnic-friendly, which means no need to splurge in the café.
Book online in advance – Prices are often cheaper when booked direct and ahead of time.
Look for return or season passes – Especially if you live locally and want to go back in the school holidays.
Follow them on socials – You’ll often spot flash sales, discount codes, or special event freebies.
