If you’re looking for a free, family-friendly, nature-filled escape without leaving London, a visit to Mudchute Farm is a must. Here’s everything you need to know to plan the perfect visit.
When you think of London, you might imagine iconic landmarks like Big Ben, the London Eye, and Buckingham Palace. But nestled in the heart of the Isle of Dogs, just a stone’s throw from Canary Wharf’s gleaming skyscrapers, is Mudchute Park and Farm — one of the largest city farms in Europe.
Why visit Mudchute Farm?
This working farm is set in 32 acres that combines the farm with fields, nature reserve and woodland. Founded in 1977, the park was created instead of a high rise estate. It is now a registered charity dedicated to education and conservation, offering visitors an opportunity to experience real farm life right in the city.
The farm is home to over 100 animals including sheep, cows and pigs. There is even an Ack-ack gun remaining from the Second World War with a Memorial garden so we can remember those who gave their lives. The wider park is perfect for a walk and explore to see a wildflower meadow, allotments and woodland areas. It really is a surreal experience to walk through the fields while being overlooked by the skyscapers from near by.
The farm offers animal experiences such as meeting the sheep, goats and rabbits so make sure you look on the website to book a slot as they sell out fast.
Read more: Animal experiences at Mudchute Farm
Location
Mudchute Park is located on the Isle of Dogs, just a 15 minute walk from Greenwich on the opposite side of the River Thames. It is also just a couple of DLR stops from Canary Wharf where you could combine a visit to the farm with the London Docklands Museum.
Getting to Mudchute Park and Farm
The easiest way to get to the Farm is by DLR. The nearest station, Crossharbour, is just a few minutes walk away through the Asda car park. You could walk from Mudchute DLR station but the paths are unlit and can get muddy.
Alternatively, you could walk through the footwall from Greenwich which takes about 15 minutes.
Check out the map of the park for the different entrances.
Read more: Best apps to plan your journey around London
Opening Hours
The farm is open every day from 9am to 4pm but the animals are taken inside from 3pm.
The park is open daily from dawn til dusk.
Tickets
No tickets or booking required unless you want an animal experience.
Toilets
There are toilets available in the courtyard with hand washing facilities available throughout the farm.
Eating and Drinking
The Mudchute Kitchen café is in the courtyard with a very nice menu!
Car parking
No car parking in the near vicinity. If you are driving, I would park in the Asda car park just a few minutes away but take note of the time restrictions.
Accessibility
The paths around the park and farm are wide and flat but can get muddy. There are disabled toilet facilities in the courtyard by the farm.
Top Tips for visiting Mudchute Park and Farm
- Visit at Springtime to see the baby animals
- Wear suitable footwear – it can get muddy!
- Combine a visit to the farm with a trip into Canary Wharf. I would recommend the London Docklands Museum and Crossrail Roof Garden.
- Look at the events section on the website. They hold animal petting in Pets Corner on selected days, especially in school holidays.
