A PICTURESQUE farm has revealed a number of new features including a children’s petting zoo and a glamping site for people who want to escape the concrete jungle.

The Gow family who run Farmer Gow’s in Longcot, near Faringdon, was forced to diversify during the Covid-19 crisis to ensure ‘survival’ and come out of the pandemic ‘stronger than ever’.

The farm park that is located on Fernham Road now includes the Oxford Yurt – a glamping ‘paradise’ set in a wild meadow full of skylarks – as well as educational workshops on farm animals, and wind and solar energy.

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Owner Anne Gow, who is passionate about bringing the benefits of her lifelong enjoyment of nature, farming and animals to the local community, also revealed that eco-friendly dog grooming services Nark & Berry, and bakery shop Lissie Lou have also joined the expanding operation.

The place also boasts Oxford Oak camping, which runs from April to September, and offers communal fire pits and flat space for tents and scenic views.

Ms Gow is also keen to promote the farm as an ‘eco-educational’ study opportunity for primary schools and communities.

Oxford Mail:

She announced that a refurbishment programme to extend the ‘Meet the Animals Barn' is already under way.

Children can get to know the furry farm creatures in a secure environment while their parents can experience an ‘authentic’ way of country living and farm life.

A new farm trail was also introduced to replace the tractor ride where visitors can feed and interact with the friendly goats at the site – Charlie, Jason and Billie.

Wantage MP David Johnston, who visited the scenic farm during the House of Commons summer recess, praised the owners for the expansion of their business.

Speaking about the experience, the Conservative MP commented: "At Farmer Gow’s I saw not just what a great family day out the farm is for young and old, but also met the proprietors of successful businesses that Anne Gow has as tenants on the Longcot site.

Oxford Mail:

"From LissieLou, the cake decoration business, to Bark & Berry Dog Grooming and the Oxford Yurt, a pretty impressive glamping site.

"I have never been glamping myself but if you like doing so I would check them out."

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Farmer Gow’s Family Fun Farm is open at weekends and October half term for ‘Meet the Animals’ and traditional farm activities, including the large bale climb, imaginative play, pedal tractors and adventure playground.

Visitors can now book day tickets through the website as well as purchase meat, firewood, Christmas trees, gifts and toys.

For more information and to book visit www.farmergows.co.uk