Just outside Taunton, Little Farmers has burst onto the scene as an exciting new outdoor play centre, selling out its first month of visits. Founded by Colette and Dylan Durden, aged 26 and 23, the couple launched this venture at Sheppy’s Cider Farm after relocating to Taunton last year and noticing a lack of nature-focused activities for their children.
Little Farmers invites children up to age ten to immerse themselves in nature through a variety of thoughtfully designed play stations. The centre features a greenhouse, potting station, mud pit, potion-making area, water trays, car racing tracks, balancing beams, wobble boards, and more. Each element aims to spark imagination while supporting different areas of childhood development. For instance, using tools like wheelbarrows and rakes helps strengthen arm muscles, blending play and learning seamlessly.
The Durden family champions the concept of ‘messy play,’ encouraging kids to get as dirty or as clean as they wish. Colette, who has a background in art therapy, emphasizes the value of this freedom: “Here, children can explore and create without limits—whether covered in mud or spotless.”
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Little Farmers is very much a family project. Colette and Dylan first met at Kingswood School in Bath and later reconnected while working in a care home. Their own children, ages seven, three, and nine months, are enthusiastic participants and love spending time outdoors.
Committed to supporting local enterprises, the Durdens source elements like potion ingredients from a nearby florist and commission play equipment from a local construction firm. This community-focused approach extends to their location; renting land from Sheppy’s Cider Farm means visitors can combine their play experience with a visit to the orchard, sample cider, dine at the café, or explore the cheesemonger’s offerings.
Located in Bradford-on-Tone, Little Farmers welcomes families with adult tickets priced at £3 and children’s tickets at £6.95. Kids under 12 months enter free. Supervision by an adult is required, and all visits are booked online in advance.