I took my kids to the Cotswolds attraction that has cute farm animals, huge playground and nearby campsite
BEFORE Jeremy Clarkson quit cars for livestock, Countryfile presenter Adam Henson was probably the most famous farmer in the Cotswolds.
But while both have turned onscreen projects into huge tourism draws, Henson comes from pure farming pedigree.
He grew up in the same farmhouse he now shares with his wife and kids — and took over the lease of the 650-hectare estate from his father in the late Nineties.
He began working on BBC’s Countryfile in 2001, and since then millions of families have seen his animals beamed into their living rooms every Sunday evening.
And each year, many of those viewers visit his Cotswold Farm Park, a rare breeds centre and country play park in a picturesque corner of his land.
I joined them for a weekend break at one of the luxury lodges on the adjacent campsite.
Spring is easily the best time to visit any farm in the UK, as new lambs, chicks, calves and piglets all arrive noisily on the scene.
Inside the Discovery Barn, which teaches children all about farm animals, my five-year-old son petted chicks and baby rabbits, and was lucky enough to see a lamb being born.
And one of the friendly farm staff was on hand to explain all about the process of lambing.
Armed with bags of feed, we then headed on the rare breed trail to meet some of the adult animals.
The farm has 50 rare breeds across seven species, including Highland cattle, Tamworth pigs and some hilariously cheeky Pygmy goats.
As it was Easter, it wasn’t just about snacks for the animals.
There was also a scavenger trail for the little humans, which ended with a chocolate reward.
My little lad burnt off the sugar high at the play park, with its huge bouncy trampoline pillows that kept him entertained for hours.
Someone who really knows kids built this play park.
Equally as popular as the bouncy pillows were the child-size electric tractors and the huge indoor sandpit.
We refuelled at the on-site Ox Shed restaurant, dining on burgers and loaded salads, washed down with apple juice and a glass of Adam Henson’s own pale ale for me.
The beer was so good I had a second.
Fortunately, our home for the night was only a three-minute walk away.
The campsite has everything from basic pitches to glamping tents and lodges, and we opted for the latter, which was roomy and very modern with a large living room and kitchenette.
A particular highlight was the wood-fired hot tub, which we soaked ourselves in until the sun set over the rolling fields beyond.
The next morning, we were up with the birds ready for round two of wholesome farm action, which also included some arts and crafts.
Since our visit, Countryfile has become a regular watch in our house, with my son keen to spot the farm that he visited.
But we’re yet to see our favourite Pygmy goats make an appearance.
The BBC should sign them up.
Even Jeremy Clarkson can’t compete with that star power.
GO: Cotswolds
STAYING THERE: Cotswold Farm Park has touring pitches for caravans, motorhomes and tents from £50 per night in May.
Safari tents and camping pods from £59.50.
Luxury lodges, sleeping up to six, from £169 per night.
PLAYING THERE: Easter On The Farm tickets (valid until this Sunday) from £20 (adult), £18 (four to 15), £15 (two to three) and £1 (under-ones).
Save £2 by booking four days in advance online.