Gorgie City Farm
About
Gorgie City Farm is a free-entry working farm right in Edinburgh, offering hands-on animal experiences without leaving the city. Kids can meet friendly chickens, goats, alpacas, and other farm animals while learning about sustainable farming and animal care through interactive demonstrations and seasonal activities.
Highlights
- ✓Meeting and petting friendly alpacas, goats, and rabbits
- ✓Seeing seasonal baby animals like lambs, chicks, and kids (baby goats)
- ✓Educational talks and animal feeding demonstrations
- ✓Community garden with vegetables and herbs kids can explore
- ✓Small playground area for burning off extra energy
Pro Tips
- 1.Visit during morning feeding times (typically around 10am) when animals are most active and staff are out doing demonstrations.
- 2.The farm is free to enter but donation-based, so bring a few pounds to support this community-run charity.
- 3.Wear waterproof boots or wellies, especially after rain, as paths can get muddy around animal enclosures.
- 4.Check their website before visiting for special seasonal events like lamb feeding in spring or harvest activities in autumn.
- 5.There's a small on-site cafe serving hot drinks and snacks, perfect for warming up on chilly Scottish days.
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings (Tuesday-Thursday) are quietest, though weekends offer more scheduled activities. Spring (March-May) is ideal when baby animals are born, creating extra excitement for kids.
What to Know
Admission is free but donations are appreciated. Limited on-site parking is available, but the farm is easily reached by bus from Edinburgh city center (bus routes 2, 3, 25, 33). Basic cafe on-site, pushchair accessible on main paths.
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round, but spring (March-June) is especially magical with newborn lambs and chicks. Some outdoor activities may be limited in winter. Check ahead for special Halloween and Christmas events.
Nearby Eats
The nearby Fountain Park leisure complex (10-minute walk) has family chains like Nando's and Pizza Hut. For a more local option, try The Orchard Bar & Restaurant on Gorgie Road, which offers children's menus and highchairs.
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Pleasance
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