Lislagan Farm, just outside Ballymoney, is preparing to welcome hundreds of visitors for Bank of Ireland Open Farm Weekend 2026, taking place from 12–14 June. The 11-acre historic farm will open its gates to school groups on Friday 12 June, followed by a public open day on Saturday 13 June, offering children, families and the wider community the chance to experience farm life up close.
Home to Compass Advocacy Network (CAN), Lislagan Farm is a vibrant, inclusive place where people of all abilities can come to experience the therapeutic power of nature and animals with family and friends. Each year, CAN supports more than 500 adults and 150 children across the North Coast through wellbeing programmes, training, respite and social activities. Open Farm Weekend gives visitors a rare opportunity to see this vital, often unseen work in action on the farm.
A Warm Welcome for Schools and Families
Last year’s Open Farm Weekend School Day was a highlight for the Lislagan team, with children learning where food comes from, exploring the gardens and meeting the farm’s friendly animals. From pulling carrots straight from the soil to gently stroking hens or watching sheep graze, the experience was a first for some of the children and the smiles on their faces and the squeals of laughter gave the team a great reminder of why they do what they do – creating moments of learning and joy filled memories that stay with children long after they leave the farm.
This year, on Friday, school groups will once again enjoy guided tours, hands‑on learning and the chance to meet the people who make Lislagan such a special place. On Saturday, families and visitors of all ages will be welcome to explore the farm at their own pace, chat with staff and volunteers, and take part in a range of fun, nature‑based activities.
Janet Schofield, CEO of CAN, describes what she is most looking forward to visitors exploring this year at Open Farm Weekend:
“Definitely our sheep! Weather permitting, we’ll be demonstrating sheep shearing and showing how fleece is spun into yarn. Creative visitors can also try foraging and use natural and recycled materials from our enterprise shed to make their own mini works of art. We’re also really looking forward to showcasing our 3 x Lislagan Cottages, which will offer cosy, disability-friendly accommodation on-site. They’ll become a key part of how we welcome visitors from across Northern Ireland and beyond, allowing people to extend their stay and experience life on the farm in a relaxed, inclusive setting.”
Janet goes on to say, “Our farm gives people a chance to slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect with the rhythm of nature. It also provides opportunities for our trainees to gain work skills. Whether through animal care, planting, or simple observation, visitors experience the therapeutic benefits of being outdoors. The farm also serves as a hub for community connection, fostering understanding between people of all abilities and showing how working together can nurture both well-being and the environment.”
Many of CAN’s participants spend their week caring for the animals, tending the gardens and learning new skills across the farm, and during Open Farm Weekend, they’ll be on hand to share their stories, their favourite spots and what the farm means to them. It’s this lived experience of the pride they take in the farm and the joy they get from it that truly brings the farm to life.
Across the weekend, visitors will enjoy:
- Guided tours for school groups on Friday
- A public open day on Saturday with activities for all ages
- Opportunities to meet CAN participants, families, staff and volunteers
- Hands‑on experiences such as gardening, animal care and nature‑based crafts
- Demonstrations and stories that bring the farm’s work to life
- A warm, inclusive atmosphere where everyone is welcome
Find Out More About Open Farm Weekend 2026
Lislagan Farm is one of many farms across Northern Ireland taking part in Bank of Ireland Open Farm Weekend 2026 from 12-14 June. For the latest list of participating farms, event details and visitor information, please visit Our Farms.
