Hackney City Farm: Urban Farming Heart in East London

A Green Haven Amidst the Urban Landscape

Nestled in the heart of East London at 1a Goldsmiths Row, Hackney City Farm serves as a verdant sanctuary where city dwellers can immerse themselves in the rhythms of farm life. Despite its urban setting, the farm boasts a diverse collection of traditional livestock including pigs, cattle, sheep, chickens, ducks, turkeys, rabbits, and guinea pigs. Visitors can enjoy the sights and sounds of these animals in a cobbled farmyard that offers a genuine rural atmosphere within the city.

Gardens, Orchards, and Sustainable Living

Beyond the animals, the farm features thoughtfully cultivated gardens with raised vegetable beds, a bog garden teeming with wetland plants, and an orchard bearing apples, pears, and plums. These spaces not only provide beauty and tranquility but also serve educational purposes, demonstrating sustainable growing practices. Adjacent to the farm is the Get Loose shop, a zero-waste grocery offering packaging-free nuts, grains, pulses, and fresh eggs from the farm’s own hens, encouraging visitors to embrace eco-friendly lifestyles.

Community Engagement and Educational Programs

Hackney City Farm is more than a place to visit; it’s a hub for community involvement and learning. The Mini Farmers' Club invites children aged 8 to 17 to participate in farm tasks such as mucking out and grooming, fostering a hands-on understanding of animal care and farming. The farm also hosts workshops, volunteer days, and special events that deepen community ties and promote environmental stewardship.

Frizzante Café and Local Flavors

The farm is home to Frizzante, an award-winning Italian café known for its rustic charm and family-friendly menu. Visitors can enjoy dishes like burrata salads, pasta, and roast lamb while soaking in the relaxed atmosphere. The café also offers facilities such as high chairs and baby changing, making it a convenient stop for families.

Accessibility and Visitor Experience

Open Tuesday through Sunday from 10:00 to 16:30, Hackney City Farm welcomes visitors free of charge, relying on donations to maintain its operations. The farm is accessible by public transport with nearby stations including Cambridge Heath and Hoxton, though parking is limited. Guide dogs are permitted throughout the farm, and accessible toilets are available. The farm’s manageable size makes it perfect for a couple of hours’ visit, ideal for families, solo visitors, and anyone seeking a peaceful break from city life.

Urban Farming’s Role in London’s Cultural Fabric

Hackney City Farm exemplifies the integration of agriculture into urban environments, offering a vital green space that connects people with nature, food production, and sustainable living. It stands as a testament to community resilience and environmental awareness, providing a rare glimpse of countryside charm within London’s East End.