Rectory Farm

by Oxford Explorer (subscribe)

If you're looking for somewhere a little different to take your kids on a sunny day then why not try Rectory Farm in the village of Stanton St John.

The land that's worked by Rectory Farm has a long and interesting history. Owned by Oxford University's New College, it has be farmed by tenants for almost five hundred years. The current tenants are Richard and Carla Stanley and they introduced a small area of pick your own raspberries when they took over in 1980. Since then the farm has expanded and the pick your own covers 75 acres. They still have raspberries to pick but have introduced lots of fresh vegetables and fruit over the years. This is one of the best places in Oxfordshire to pick your own asparagus. Lovers of asparagus will know that there is nothing quite like the taste of freshly picked asparagus taken from the field and on your plate in a matter of hours.



Strawberries are one of the best fruits to pick if you have children as they are easily accessible and taste delicious. If you don't have time to gather yourself then don't worry, they have a fantastic farm shop on site. It's open between April and October and sells whatever is in season from the farm as well as selected local products.






It's easy to spend a full morning or afternoon at Rectory Farm and the outside cafe know as the Country Cafe is a delightful spot for a cup of tea and piece of cake.



After filling up on fresh raspberries and strawberries, my kids love to play. Rectory Farm has a large shaded sandpit with plenty of buckets and spades. It's next to the country cafe with plenty of seating and there are also picnic tables scattered around. This means parents can sit back and relax while some serious sandcastle creations are made.



As well as the sandpit, you'll find a bouncy castle and jumbo bouncy slide during the summer months which is more than enough to keep the under and over 5's busy and burn off some energy. Finally there is a wooden assault course to practise climbing, balancing and swinging skills.



Everything is based outside so this is definitely a place to go on a dry day. If it's been raining the day before the ground can still be quite muddy so be prepared for some muddy feet.

The bouncy castle, slide and sandpit are all free and there is no entry cost to Rectory Farm making this a cost effective trip out. Pick your own fruit and vegetables are priced by the weight and the Country Cafe prices are very reasonable.



The Country Cafe can also host a children's party for you, with a dedicated area to sit and activities from tractor rides to pick your own fruit. Contact them directly for full details and prices.

If you haven't visited Rectory Farm yet then give it a go and let me know what you think in the comments box.

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Why? A great place to take the kids

When: April to October

Phone: 01865 351677

Website: www.kbsuk.com/demo/rectoryfarm/index.asp?PType=Home

Where: Stanton St John, OX33 1HF

Cost: Free