Beetle Bank Open Farm is York’s friendliest countryside escape — an ideal day out for families with kids of all ages. Just 10 minutes out from York city centre, our working farm offers the perfect mix of sociable animals, wide open spaces, hands-on learning and farm-made food. It’s a wholesome day out full of smiles, play, and childhood memories waiting to be made.
We’re just off the A64, so whether you’re passing by or fancy popping in, it’s easy to make a farm stop part of your day. The café is open daily from 10am to 4.30pm, and we offer reduced entry later in the day — perfect for a quick after-school adventure. It’s not just for kids either — couples tell us we’re a great spot for a surprise feel-good date... alpaca walk, anyone?
Book a special session with our trained handlers and walk one of our gentle alpacas through the fields. A perfect gift experience or family treat.
Book a special session with our trained handlers and walk one of our gentle alpacas through the fields. A perfect gift experience or family treat.
Our large adventure playground is designed with accessibility in mind — so all children can enjoy play. From the bouncy castle and sand pit to the ride-on tractors, there’s something for every little explorer.
Our large adventure playground is designed with accessibility in mind — so all children can enjoy play. From the bouncy castle and sand pit to the ride-on tractors, there’s something for every little explorer.
Host an unforgettable birthday bash in our dedicated party room — complete with VIP animal cuddles, run off the cake with adventure play and a tasty farm-style buffet. Suitable for ages 2–10, and perfect for stress-free family celebrations.
Host an unforgettable birthday bash in our dedicated party room — complete with VIP animal cuddles, run off the cake with adventure play and a tasty farm-style buffet. Suitable for ages 2–10, and perfect for stress-free family celebrations.
Enjoy a break in our cosy farm café, serving breakfast, lunch, cakes and more from 10am until 4.30pm. We use local ingredients and cater for children and grown-ups alike.
Enjoy a break in our cosy farm café, serving breakfast, lunch, cakes and more from 10am until 4.30pm. We use local ingredients and cater for children and grown-ups alike.
We've got school holidays covered... From BeetleFest to craft-filled half terms and our magical Santa’s Grotto — we keep the calendar packed with activities that delight and surprise.
From BeetleFest to craft-filled half terms and our magical Santa’s Grotto — we keep the calendar packed with activities that delight and surprise.
We’re committed to accessibility and community. Our site is friendly for prams, partially wheelchair accessible, and open to everyone — including groups supporting dementia, neurodiversity and special needs.
We’re committed to accessibility and community. Our site is friendly for prams, partially wheelchair accessible, and open to everyone — including groups supporting dementia, neurodiversity and special needs.
From school trips to family visits, our Education Zone introduces little minds to farm life, animal care, and conservation projects in a hands-on way.
From school trips to family visits, our Education Zone introduces little minds to farm life, animal care, and conservation projects in a hands-on way.
The York Astronomical Society has a permanent observatory here at the farm. With regular open evenings and stargazing sessions, there’s always something to see after sunset.
The York Astronomical Society has a permanent observatory here at the farm. With regular open evenings and stargazing sessions, there’s always something to see after sunset.
A great spot for camper van adventurers, weekend breakers... Stay overnight, wake up to the sounds of the countryside and enjoy full access to the farm the next morning. Pop over to the farm café to start the day with a hearty breakfast.
A great spot for camper van adventurers, weekend breakers... Stay overnight, wake up to the sounds of the countryside and enjoy full access to the farm the next morning. Pop over to the farm café to start the day with a hearty breakfast.
Beetle Bank Open Farm & Wild Sanctuary
Moor Lane, Murton, York YO19 5XD
01904 488796
beetlebankfarm@gmail.com
We know planning a family day out means thinking ahead — so we’ve gathered answers to the questions families ask most. From buggy access and food options to what’s best for toddlers, kids or teens — find your perfect day out.