I'm not afraid to admit that we've gone a bit tree crazy here at Eastbrook Farm. Not that we had anything against trees before, far from it! But with over 12,500 new trees planted on the farm this year you can understand our focus.
I was on the verge of declaring it the Year of the Tree when I discovered that it could send us all down a Tolkienesque rabbit hole. If you know what I'm talking about, great. If you don't, I do not suggest that you Google it (other search engines are available).
However, if you're as keen on trees as we are, you are in the right place! Join us for guided walks on 20 May as part of the National Agroforestry Open Weekend, come to a two-day show all about agroforestry, or learn how to grow and manage your own agroforestry / orchard / apple tree.
How to choose, plant and manage fruit trees, 20 November, 10:00-16:00
Book ahead for this very hands-on day where you will learn how to plan, plant, and look after your own fruit trees. Perfect for gardens with a single tree or a whole orchard.
Farm Safaris
2 - 2.5 hours
We think that Eastbrook Farm is a place of fun, and wonder, and hopefully inspiration. And great landscapes, interesting animals, beautiful views, some stunning wildlife. From woodlands to ponds to pigs, it’s yours to enjoy, so why not join us for one of our farm safaris?
From the playful piglets to the beautiful landscapes of the Russley downs there's so much to see. During your farm safari we will explore some of the farm and its livestock, some of the fantastic habitats provided for wildlife and some of the more unusual residents and visitors we have across the 1,500 acres we have here.
On foot, you need to be agile enough to open gates and occasionally climb over them; wear sensible shoes, and clothes for the time of year
Land Rover, agility needed to get in and out; but once in, the mini safari starts.
We usually start up on the Downs where you can look down on the farm and see the setting. We take in one of our Dairies and the cows, visit the pigs and see what we do to support wildlife.
At the right time of year, our wildflower valley, festooned with orchids and other exotica, is a walk unto itself, and needs no guide. And then there's the Agroforestry and the inspiration for our gin. If we encounter any wildlife on our way, so much the better! Come and enjoy us.
Finding us is easy. Pretty much all our experiences start at our pub, The Royal Oak in Bishopstone. Just fifteen minutes from the M4, J15 and about the same to Swindon town centre. If you are travelling by SatNav the postcode is SN6 8PP.
Helen Browning
eastbrookexperiences.com