Description
Looking for the best things to do with kids in Harlow? Pets' Corner in Harlow Town Park offers a wonderful family day out at a long-running community animal farm. This outdoor attraction and petting zoo lets children and adults encounter traditional farm animals, rare breeds, and exotic species up close.
General admission to the farm is completely free of charge, though voluntary donations are welcomed on-site to help maintain the grounds and animal care.
If you are looking for the best place for a day out with family and kids that combines educational animal encounters with wide-open parkland space, this Essex attraction delivers a brilliant experience. Its friendly atmosphere, unique animal residents, and central park location make it a top choice for local families.
Beyond the Main Attraction:
- Harlow Town Park: Sprawling historic parkland featuring ornamental gardens, streams, and walking trails.
- The Spurriers House Cafe: Local refreshment spot located within the park grounds offering hot drinks and meals.
- Gibson Gardens: Beautifully landscaped sensory gardens situated nearby in the park.
What Visitors Love:
- Parents frequently praise the completely free admission policy, making it an affordable, low-pressure day out for families.
- The compact, friendly layout allows toddlers and younger children to explore comfortably without getting overtired.
- Visitors love the unexpected variety of animals, ranging from familiar farm pets to unique reindeer and alpacas.
- The integration with Harlow Town Park gives families plenty of room to extend their visit with a picnic or playground trip.
What Visitors Don't Like:
- Parking is not available directly on-site, requiring a short walk from nearby council car parks.
- Catering options directly inside the farm are limited, meaning visitors should pack snacks or head to the main park cafe.
- Mud can accumulate on surrounding park footpaths during wet winter months, requiring sensible footwear.
Attractions and Experiences:
- Main Farm Courtyard: Central hub housing small animal pens and visitor information.
- The Reindeer Paddock: Dedicated enclosure for the resident reindeer herd.
- Alpaca and Llama Enclosures: Open-air viewing areas for South American camelids.
- Rare Breed Pig Sties: Specialized pens showcasing heritage conservation breeds.
- Aquarium and Reptile Building: Indoor shelter featuring aquatic life and terrariums.
- Poultry and Waterfowl Runs: Enclosures for ornamental ducks, chickens, and geese.
- Cattle and Equine Grazing Fields: Pastures housing larger farm animals.
- On-Site Gift Kiosk: Small shop selling souvenirs and pocket-money items.
- Harlow Town Park Lawns: Extensive open green spaces surrounding the farm site.
- Park Adventure Play Areas: Nearby council-run children's playgrounds within walking distance.
New for 2026:
- Upgraded Animal Welfare Shelters: Refreshed indoor bedding and seasonal housing structures designed to keep resident animals warm and comfortable.
- Enhanced Accessibility Pathways: Improved ground surfacing around core viewing areas to ensure smoother pushchair and wheelchair mobility.
- Updated Educational Signage: Brand new interactive information boards detailing rare breed conservation and animal care routines.
0.02 miles
