What’s the score?
A totally charming working city farm in the heart of Stepney Green. It covers 3 acres, so isn’t huge, but is a little slice of rural life in the midst of the city.
Of course there are farm animals, but there is so much more here including a rural arts centre, a cafe, allotments, a children’s garden, not to mention a farmyard with a load of (well-loved) little tyke cars and trikes for kids to play with.
Tell me more…
The farm was set up in 1979 on a piece of land that had been derelict since it was bombed in WW2. Today the place is run by the charity Stepney City Farm, made up of local residents who volunteer their time. In 2021 the farm will expand a little as land is being reinstated to them by Crossrail (who are developing the neighbouring site).
There is loads going on here from studios showcasing traditional arts and crafts (think woodwork, pottery etc) and allotments for local Tower Hamlets residents, to an animal and nature wellbeing group. It really is a hub for the local community, working to improve lives through farming and provide green space for people to come together.
Weekly events include the fantastic Frog Prince baby music sessions on Fridays, a Farmers’ market on Saturdays and a Family Farm Club on the last Sunday of the month. Check out the events page for more.
Great for …
- feeding goats and donkeys
- petting rabbits and guinea pigs
- a little bit of the pastoral in the city
- farm-fresh produce in the cafe
Facilities …
- Public toilets (including baby changing table)
- The Allotment Kitchen cafe serving up food grown on the farm
- Toy cars and bikes for younger kids to play on (May 2021 – currently put away to keep covid secure)
Access …
The nearest stations are Stepney Green or Limehouse DLR, both of which are a good 10 minute walk. Otherwise the 339 bus stops at St Dunstan’s Church just opposite the farm.
The farm is open every day 10am-4pm, except Monday. More details online.
The farm is described as wheelchair accessible and very family friendly – which it is. I would just add that the main farmyard area and cafe are totally accessible, getting along all the paths to the animals furthest away can entail a few minor bumps and require some good pushing! Having said that, Stepney City Farm are very conscious of different access needs, so get in touch and they will find a way to help, including offering tours for visually impaired and those less mobile.
No parking
Find out more …
Stepney City Farm has all the info.
East London Outside 