Nick Harding discovers two highly entertaining attractions in South Devon for kids of all ages
If your touring takes you to the South Devon area, here are two attractions to go and see, no matter what age you are.
Pennywell Farm, near Buckfastleigh, tells us it’s the UK’s largest petting farm. A far cry from 1989, when it opened as a single barn plus a shop and catering unit. It has picked up numerous awards ever since and these days is typically home to some 150 animals, a selection of eateries (you are also welcome to bring your own picnic), a gift shop and plenty of other farm-related events.
You even get a ‘Pennywell 1st Visit’ sticker if it’s your first time and you just want a bit of extra guidance.
We soon realised the action is pretty much non-stop here – a new activity every 30 minutes is the boast – so as well as petting, there’s everything from tractor and trailer farm rides to bottle feeding, ferret racing, meet the mini-donkeys/goats/hedgehogs/deer, and so much more. The highlight of our half-day here? An encounter with a three-day-old miniature pig!
Members get 7 days’ entry for the price of 1
Conveniently enough, Buckfastleigh is where volunteer-run charity South Devon Railway runs steam and diesel trains through some beautiful Devon countryside seemingly untouched by time, heading south to Totnes Riverside – a stretch of line that follows the River Dart and was originally used for the Totnes-Ashburton service.
Our steam train trip included a buffet carriage with tables and chairs – and no sign of British Rail sandwiches, although you might prefer to save yourselves for Birdies Kitchen back at the station. It does particularly good soups and, yes, sandwiches.
Also here at Buckfastleigh Station is a highly browsable museum and a gift/model shop. At the workshops you may even catch a glimpse of the restoration work carried out by the engineers.
Taller motorhomes should be aware that you go under a bridge to get to the main parking area (although an alternative is well signposted). Other than that, this kid can’t think of a more perfect way to while away at least half a day.
Members get 10% discount on standard fares
Stay at: Steamer Club Campsite: 5.8 miles (17 minutes), Modbury Club Campsite: 10.6 miles (19 minutes), Dornafield Club Campsite: 11.9 miles (27 minutes)
Please visit camc.com/greatsavingsguide for vouchers, discount codes and pre-booking where relevant, as well as terms and conditions. Please check site and attraction opening dates and times before visiting/travelling.
