Mrs Dowsons Farm Park: Lancashire’s Family-Friendly Working Farm Experience
Experience Lancashire’s beloved working farm with hands-on animal encounters, play areas, and farm-made ice cream for all ages.
Mrs Dowsons Farm Park in Blackburn offers a vibrant working farm experience where families can meet a wide variety of animals, enjoy interactive talks, and explore extensive indoor and outdoor play areas. The farm is renowned for its sustainable farming practices and famous farm-made ice cream. Seasonal events and educational workshops enrich every visit, making it a perfect day out for children and adults alike.
A brief summary to Mrs Dowsons Farm Park
- Hawkshaw Fold, Longsight Rd, Blackburn, BB2 7JA, GB
- +441254812407
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Book your tickets online in advance to secure entry and benefit from the best prices.
- Visit the goat enclosure early with feed from the farmer’s buckets for a lively feeding session.
- Don’t miss the indoor wooden play area, especially on cooler or rainy days.
- Check the farm’s event calendar for seasonal activities like pumpkin picking and goat yoga.
- Enjoy a meal at Dowson's Farm Grill or Pizza Hut to taste local flavors after exploring.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Food Options
- Drink Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Blackburn city center takes approximately 15-20 minutes via the A59. Free parking is available on-site, but space can be limited during peak times and special events.
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Bus
Local bus services run from Blackburn to Clayton-le-Dale with a journey time of around 30-40 minutes. From the nearest stop, a 15-minute walk on rural roads leads to the farm. Service frequency varies, so check schedules in advance.
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Taxi
Taxis from Blackburn to Mrs Dowsons Farm Park typically take 15 minutes and cost approximately £15-£20. This is a convenient option if public transport schedules are limited.
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Walking
For visitors staying nearby in Clayton-le-Dale, a scenic 30-minute walk along country lanes and footpaths provides a pleasant approach to the farm. Terrain is mostly flat but may be muddy after rain.
Mrs Dowsons Farm Park location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Mrs Dowsons Farm Park
A Living Working Farm with Deep Roots
Mrs Dowsons Farm Park is a cherished family-run working farm located in the scenic Lancashire countryside near Blackburn. With over four generations of farming heritage, the farm combines traditional agricultural practices with modern sustainability efforts. Visitors can witness daily farm life, including caring for animals and sustainable crop management. The farm is especially famous for producing its own dairy ice cream, crafted on-site from fresh milk, which adds a delicious local flavor to the experience.Engaging Animal Encounters and Farm Activities
At the heart of the farm experience are the many opportunities to meet and interact with a diverse range of animals. Children and adults alike can feed cows, sheep, goats, pigs, and even meet more unusual residents such as water buffalo, baby emus, and wallabies on the Wallaby Walk. The Big Barn houses donkeys, alpacas, and sheep, all eager for visitors’ attention. Throughout the day, knowledgeable farm guides provide engaging talks and demonstrations, sharing insights into animal care, farming techniques, and the natural environment.Play Areas and Family Fun
Mrs Dowsons offers extensive play facilities designed to entertain and challenge children of all ages. There is a large indoor wooden play area that provides a warm and adventurous space during cooler months, alongside numerous outdoor play zones including sandpits and climbing structures. These natural play spaces encourage children to explore, take risks safely, and build confidence while enjoying fresh country air.Seasonal Events and Educational Experiences
The farm hosts a variety of events throughout the year that celebrate seasonal traditions and farming milestones. Popular activities include Easter egg hunts, pumpkin picking in autumn, and festive Christmas events. Special workshops and talks often focus on topics such as lambing, sustainable farming, and wildlife conservation. Additionally, unique experiences like Goat Yoga and Farm Nights for adults add variety and appeal beyond the family audience.Dining and Visitor Amenities
Visitors can enjoy meals at the on-site Dowson's Farm Grill and Dowson's Pizza Hut, offering a range of delicious food options made with local produce. Facilities include clean restrooms, baby changing areas, and sheltered seating both indoors and outdoors. The farm emphasizes comfort and convenience to ensure a relaxed visit for families and groups.Location and Accessibility
Situated at Hawkshaw Fold on Longsight Road near Blackburn, Mrs Dowsons Farm Park is accessible by car with free parking available. The farm operates mainly on weekends, school holidays, and bank holidays from March through September, with opening hours typically from 10am to 4pm or 5pm depending on the season. Pre-booking tickets online is recommended to manage visitor capacity. The farm is suitable for all ages and offers a welcoming, educational environment for families, school groups, and animal lovers.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Harris Museum, Art Gallery & Library
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Preston Cenotaph
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Wayoh Reservoir
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Lumb Viaduct
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Rivington Pike
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Rivington Pike Tower
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Peel Tower
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National Trust - Rufford Old Hall
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Fairy Glen
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Bury Transport Museum
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Robert Peel Statue
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Honouring Bury’s most famous son: the 1851 bronze statue of Sir Robert Peel, twice Prime Minister and founder of the modern police force.
Moses Gate Country Park
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Mesnes Park, Wigan
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Sussex Close
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Unmissable attractions to see
Ribchester Roman Museum
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Samlesbury Hall
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Boyce's Wood
4.1 km
Discover peaceful trails and lush greenery in Boyce's Wood, a serene woodland retreat near Preston, Lancashire.
Witton Country Park
4.6 km
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The Mall Blackburn
4.9 km
A vibrant shopping centre blending mainstream and independent stores in the heart of Blackburn’s town centre.
Tin Man Sculpture
5.3 km
A whimsical and iconic outdoor sculpture celebrating creativity amid the scenic landscapes of Langho, Blackburn.
Queen's Park
6.5 km
A serene Victorian park where heritage charm meets family-friendly recreation in Blackburn's green heart.
Hoghton Tower
6.7 km
Explore Hoghton Tower, a majestic Tudor manor steeped in royal history, dramatic battles, and stunning panoramic views in Lancashire.
Viking Woodland
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Discover the peaceful trails and rich Viking heritage of Preston’s serene Viking Woodland, a natural haven for wildlife and relaxation.
Brockholes
7.0 km
Explore Brockholes, Lancashire’s award-winning floating nature reserve blending innovation, wildlife, and family fun in a stunning riverside setting.
Memorial Park
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Whalley Viaduct
8.2 km
A stunning 48-arch brick railway viaduct soaring over Lancashire’s Ribble Valley, blending Victorian engineering with gothic echoes of nearby Whalley Abbey.
Whalley Abbey East Gatehouse
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Whalley Arches
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Cromwell's Bridge
8.4 km
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Essential places to dine
The Bonny Inn
2.4 km
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Angels Restaurant
5.4 km
Chic modern British dining in Ribchester’s Ribble Valley, blending seasonal local produce with elegant style and warm hospitality.
Northcote Hotel & Restaurant
5.7 km
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Artisan Ribble Valley
6.6 km
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Gibbon Bridge Hotel and Restaurant
10.4 km
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Tipsy Chef (Bar & Restaurant)
11.8 km
A vibrant American-inspired bar and restaurant in Preston, famed for inventive dishes and lively cocktails in a buzzing social setting.
Aven Restaurant
12.2 km
Experience Preston’s finest with Aven Restaurant’s award-winning British cuisine, seasonal tasting menus, and warm, elegant ambiance.
The Italian Orchard
12.3 km
Spacious and stylish Italian dining in Broughton, offering a vast menu and lively atmosphere for families and groups.
The Broughton Inn
13.4 km
Historic gastropub in Broughton offering classic British dishes and a cozy, welcoming atmosphere just north of Preston.
The Cellar Restaurant
13.7 km
Historic charm meets traditional English cuisine in Padiham’s beloved Cellar Restaurant, where hearty meals and warm service await.
Vardons Restaurant at Shaw Hill
13.8 km
Elegant British dining with scenic golf course views at Shaw Hill’s Regency-style Vardons Restaurant.
Walled Garden Restaurant
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A stylish British bistro in Preston offering fresh, locally sourced dishes and renowned afternoon tea in a charming garden conservatory setting.
The Pickled Goose
15.0 km
A lively British pub and restaurant in Barton, Preston, blending countryside charm with modern dining and a vibrant social bar.
Charnock Farm Restaurant
15.2 km
Rustic country dining, comfortable motel stays, and charming event spaces nestled in the tranquil Lancashire countryside.
Restaurant Metamorphica
15.8 km
Exclusive fine dining in Haslingden offering innovative British tasting menus in an intimate, handcrafted setting by Chef Steven Halligan.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Quirky Gifts
10.8 km
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Retrogue Vintage Clothing
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KENJI Preston
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Discover an eclectic mix of unique gifts and general merchandise from Asia in Preston’s vibrant KENJI store within St George's Shopping Centre.
The Mill Shop
12.2 km
A welcoming gift shop in St Catherine’s Park, Lostock Hall, blending community spirit with unique local crafts and charitable support.
Witches Galore
18.1 km
A quirky, witch-themed gift shop in Newchurch-in-Pendle, packed with Pendle Witch memorabilia, magical curios and folklore souvenirs.
Mood Gifts & Home
18.3 km
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Rufford's Country Lifestyle
18.4 km
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North West Vintage Clothing Company Ltd
20.6 km
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Dream
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The Hive
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Freckle Boutique
21.1 km
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The Secret Closet
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THE FOSSIL STORE
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Cedar Farm
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Ribchester Arms
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The Plough Grimsargh
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The Stage Door
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The Stags Head
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White Orchid Boutique Bar
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Blitz Venue & Nightclub
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Hogarths
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Winedown
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Guild Ale House
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Baluga Bar & Club
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Revolution Preston
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FORUM BAR & KITCHEN
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Plug & Taps
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The Dressers Arms | Pub & Rooms
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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The Warehouse
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Popworld - Preston
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Switch Nightclub
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Park Hall Nightclub
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Underground
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Pure Nightclub
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Ibiza Nightclub
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Club underground
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Funny Girls
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The Tache Rock Club
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Trilogy Nightclub
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Hush Nightclub
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Family Friendly
- Relaxing
- Fun-filled
- Scenic
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly