Bank of Ireland Open Farm Weekend, one of Northern Ireland’s largest free awareness initiatives, is returning next week. The free to attend event, led by the Ulster Farmers’ Union, will take place from Friday 14 to Sunday 16 June and see 18 farms open their gates to school groups (Friday) and the public (Saturday & Sunday) in a bid to showcase the local farm to fork journey.
The event, which is expected to attract up to 15,000 visitors eager to participate in a diverse programme of free activities, will see participating farms, located in every county in Northern Ireland, provide a unique opportunity for the public to gain valuable insights into the life of a working farm.
NFU Mutual, the UK’s leading rural insurer, has been announced as platinum sponsor for 2024. They have been a supporter of the Bank of Ireland Open Farm Weekend for the last 13 years, contributing through donations from the NFU Mutual Charitable Trust and extending insurance cover for members who open to the public.
This year’s event will place a significant emphasis on highlighting safety on farms, reflecting NFU Mutual’s longstanding commitment to promoting safety practices within the agricultural sector.
With this in mind Lauren Hamilton from NFU Mutual gives her tips for visitors attending farms over the weekend.
- Follow all signs and instructions: Farms may have specific guidelines for visitors to follow. Make sure you read all signs and listen to any instructions given by the farm staff.
- Stay on designated paths: Farms may have off-limit areas for safety reasons. Make sure you stay on designated paths and don’t wander into areas that are not open to the public.
- Keep an eye on children: Children are naturally curious so keep a close watch on them at all times and ensure they understand the dangers present.
- Watch your step: Farms can be uneven and slippery, especially if it has been raining or animals are around. Watch your step and be careful not to trip or slip.
- Respect the animals: Animals may seem friendly but can be unpredictable, especially if they feel threatened. Always keep a safe distance from animals and don’t try to pet or feed them unless instructed to do so by the farm staff.
- Wash your hands frequently: These are working farms which may have germs or bacteria that can make you sick. Make sure you wash your hands thoroughly after touching animals or anything that may be contaminated.
- Wear appropriate clothing: Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes and comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing. Avoid loose jewellery or clothing that could get caught and bring sunscreen and water if it’s hot.
- Watch your pets: If you are permitted to bring pets on farm (please check in advance) ensure you keep them on a lead as some farm animals may see pets as a threat and react aggressively.
- Use the bins provided: Please ensure you put any litter in the bins provided or take it home with you. Only eat and drink in designated areas in case of crumbs that an animal could potentially eat and could do them damage. Food also further encourages animals sticking heads over doors or through fences to get it and doing them damage or biting the person.
- Manage Parking: Park in designated areas being mindful not to block any access points.
Enjoy a great day out and stay safe!
Bank of Ireland Open Farm Weekend 2024 Participating Farms Open to the Public:
Saturday 15 June: Armagh Apple Farm, Portadown | Ballylagan Organic Farm, Ballyclare | Beatties Glenpark Farm, Omagh | Brook Hall Estate & Gardens, Derry | Broughgammon Farm, Ballycastle | Bullsbrook Farm, Dromore | CAFRE Greenmount, Antrim | CAFRE Enniskillen Campus | Churchview Farm, Castlewellen | Donagh Cottage Farm, Donaghcloney | Jubilee Farm, Larne | Laurel View Farm, Templepatrick | Lislagan Farm, Ballymoney
Sunday 16 June: Armagh Apple Farm, Portadown | Ballylagan Organic Farm, Ballyclare | Beatties Glenpark Farm, Omagh | Brook Hall Estate & Gardens, Derry | Broughgammon Farm, Ballycastle | CAFRE Greenmount, Antrim | Castlescreen, Downpatrick | Donagh Cottage Farm, Donaghcloney| Laurel View Farm, Templepatrick
Check opening times before you travel to avoid disappointment. More information on farm opening times can be found at www.openfarmweekend.com
