A Guernsey farm could soon offer families a new way to enjoy nature. Les Adams Farm is exploring plans to create a petting zoo where children can meet animals, enjoy outdoor activities and spend time away from screens.
The farm recently purchased seven additional fields, expanding its total land to 9.5 acres (3.8 hectares).
Owner Isabel Edwards originally bought the land to provide more grazing space for her animals. However, she now sees an opportunity to create something special for local families.
She believes the beautiful countryside could become an ideal setting for children to connect with nature.
Farm Expansion Inspires Exciting New Ideas
Les Adams Farm sits on Route des Adams in Guernsey. The farm focuses on regenerative agriculture and sustainable food production.
Its owners aim to work alongside nature while producing healthy food for their family.
The farm already houses several animals, including Jacob sheep, donkeys, ducks, chickens and geese.
Edwards described the newly purchased land as “beautiful and magical.”
She hopes to transform part of the property into a welcoming space where children can interact with farm animals.
“My idea is to give kids somewhere to come, touch, feel, and get close to animals,” she explained.
Her vision includes opportunities for children to feed chickens, stroke donkeys and explore the natural surroundings.
She also hopes to introduce small craft areas and outdoor activities.
These experiences would encourage children to learn about animals while enjoying time away from digital devices.
A Place Where Children Can Connect With Nature
Edwards believes the proposed petting zoo could offer valuable experiences for local families.
She imagines mornings filled with children exploring the countryside and meeting friendly farm animals.
The activities would focus on hands-on learning, outdoor play and simple interactions with nature.
She wants to create an environment where children can discover the joys of farm life.
The idea developed gradually as Edwards spent time exploring the newly acquired fields.
Daily walks with her dog helped her recognise the land’s potential.
Although the original purchase served a practical farming purpose, her plans have continued to evolve.
“I think this is something the island could really enjoy,” she said.
Difficult Summer Led to Land Purchase
The farm’s expansion followed a challenging summer for its animals.
Edwards explained that poor grazing conditions left the sheep struggling to find enough grass.
“We had a really hard time last summer, and our sheep had the most horrible summer with no grass,” she recalled.
The family initially wanted the extra fields to provide reliable pasture.
However, the property’s natural beauty inspired Edwards to consider other possibilities.
She now hopes the additional space could benefit both the farm and the wider community.
Protecting the Land Comes First
Despite her enthusiasm, Edwards does not want to rush the project.
She believes the land’s natural character deserves careful protection.
Some areas have remained largely untouched for many years. Edwards wants to preserve that environment wherever possible.
“I don’t want to rip everything out here because it’s been left alone for so long,” she explained.
For now, the farm is focusing on essential maintenance.
Workers are trimming overgrown hedges and removing fallen trees that have accumulated over the decades.
These improvements will help the owners assess the property and identify suitable areas for future activities.
“Our first step is to make the place safe,” Edwards said.
When Could the Guernsey Petting Zoo Open?
Families hoping to visit the proposed petting zoo will need some patience.
Edwards estimates that the project could take one or two years to develop.
The idea remains in its early stages, and the farm has not announced an official opening date.
The owners must first prepare the land and determine how best to introduce visitors without damaging the natural surroundings.
For now, the farm will continue its agricultural activities while exploring its options.
The potential petting zoo could eventually give Guernsey families another opportunity to experience rural life.
If the plans move forward, Les Adams Farm could become a place where children discover animals, explore nature and create lasting memories away from screens.