Godstone Farm was an extremely popular attraction in my area, until the well publicised, but often overly dramatised outbreak of E-Coli where twelve children were unfortunately taken ill.

That happened at the end of the summer, and understandably the farm closed to comply with investigations, which are ongoing.
However the farm has now re-opened and I've frequented it on a few occasions since.

First things first, this is still a brilliant attraction for the whole family. There are rabbits, ducks, geese, turkeys, pigs, sheep and goats to see. The animals are slowly being re-introduced, so hopefully there will soon be even more here. There are always signs and posters up to educate small children along the way, making it a more interactive experience.

As well as the animals, theres a fantastic play barn, which is essentially a large indoor soft play area, with the usual climbing frames, slides and ride on toys, plus good baby changing facilities.

If you are lucky enough to get a rare sunny day, theres an expansive outdoor play area where little ones can tire themselves out in the sandpit, or on the swings and climbing frames amongst other things.
The play area is large and is accompanied by a picnic area so parents can relax, but still keep an eye on their little treasures.

At the moment the farm is still in the recovery stages and they are being meticulous about health and safety, not that they weren't always.
The farm used to allow children to handle a lot of the animals but at the moment there's no touching, which is fair enough. This is enforced by fencing etc, but there are viewing areas and the animals can be clearly seen.

I don't blame anyone for the E-Coli outbreak. Unfortunately there's always a risk associated with close animal contact, and the farm always provided excellent hand washing facilities. However they cannot enforce their use, and its down to the parents to ensure their children sanitise their hands.

When I first visited the farm after the outbreak, it was a very sad place. There were no animals and the staff were very downbeat about the whole situation. They put great time and attention into rearing the animals and are passionate about their work, and it must be devastating when it all comes apart at the seams.

But on a positive note, this great attraction is now picking up again, the visitors are returning and hopefully the arrival of new animals in the spring will cement its well deserved title as one of the best family friendly attractions in the South East of England.

Theres so much going on here. In addition to the things I've mentioned, there's also a tea shop selling fresh cakes, sandwiches and snacks, as well as a kiosk in the play barn and picnic area. Tractor rides are also available. If you have kids its very easy to spend a day here.

Costs are as follows;
Child - two and over £5.80
Child - one year £1.50
Adult £3.50
OAP £2.80

Before having my daughter I was surprised to see the child costs being more than the adult ones, but now I have her, I see that this includes the soft play area.

Theres plentiful parking and a gift shop, and Godstone Farm is located in Surrey, just off junction 6 on the M25.

This is really a great resource, and I believe its important for children to learn about, and be in contact with animals. I hope this farm goes from strength to strength and returns to its former popularity very soon.