Canon Hall Farm, Near Barnsley

Spurred on by friends who have recently visited, today we went to Canon Hall Farm near Barnsley. It was a freezing cold day but even the coldest of beings couldn't fail to be warmed by the gorgeous baby animals cosy in their pens at Canon Hall Farm. We saw sheep with their lambs, fabulous Highland cows resplendent with huge horns and cute calves and lots of guinea pigs and rabbits. My favourite were the pigs - always so much bigger than you ever imagine - but helpfully making all the correct "oink" noises to show little ones that their parents are not entirely mad when they make that noise to show what a pig says! There were some really young piglets too.

Parking is £2.50 (with £1.50 redeemable in the cafe) and entry for adults is £4.25. Children under 3 are free. The farm is entirely pram or pushchair friendly and our little one was delighted as a pygmy goat kid popped up to say hello.

Being slightly neurotic about cleanliness I was really impressed with the number of hand washing stations and information about washing hands after handling the animals. The farm is obviously a working farm but my wellies weren't really needed as the paths are clean. There are some big improvement works being done too; the greatest of these will be a playground that, judging by the pictures, will surely have me wishing I was young enough to go down the slides - opening later this year it is something I will remember for when my little one is older.

We warmed up with a nice cup of tea and piece of cake in the cafe - plenty of highchairs available along with a microwave to heat up milk if needed. There is a farm shop next to the cafe selling local food which was really busy.

Canon Hall Farm clearly know who their visitors are and the place is well set-up for children and babies. The countryside in the area is really lovely and I'd like to explore more of the Canon Hall estate. On a final note, as feeding the ducks is something I mention a lot in my blog I really ought to say that on our way back to the main road, in the Canon Hall estate, there is a great duck feeding spot. We'll definitely be back; hopefully in warmer weather!