Rumley's Open Farm

Described as a unique working farm experience, Rumley's Open Farm in Liberty Hill, Waterfall is certainly that and much more.

Carefully curated and designed by Ivan Rumley and his wife Sandie, Rumley's Open Farm is certainly worth a visit and is the perfect place to visit for a family day out.

What's even better is that it's only five minutes from Cork City and its central location off the main thoroughfare is ideal for visitors from both the city and the West Cork region.

Ivan had been operating the business as farm shop selling his own Angus dry aged beef and free range chickens, when he decided to take a step further by expanding the farm into an open farm on his picturesque 20 acre site which he only recently opened.

"I've always had a passion for exotic animals and decided to combine this with the farm experience and create a fun and educational open farm and so far the response has been very positive from people who have visited the farm, " said Ivan.

"What I offer to customers is a traceable food journey as well that is unique in that we are producing the food on site and selling it as well. It's a case of 'from farm to fork' and our full time butcher here in the shop can advise customers on the Angus dry aged beef we sell."

While you can browse in Ivan's Farm Shop for the best in local fresh food produce and vegetables you can also sample their beef, home made chicken goujons and home baked breads, cakes and desserts at their City View Farm Cafe after a stroll around the impressive farm.

The open farm centres around a 2km walkway where you can explore the wide range of exotic animals and birds. From Sea Owls to Lemurs you will be amazed and entertained at the variety of species on show and Ivan keeps them in their correct environment. Children will be entertained with the antics of the Cudimendi and enthralled by the two South American Alpacas, Water Buffalo and the Zebu cattle, the only two in the country.

Ivan also has over 20 breeds of parrots and also has a rabbit village as well as a large collection of birds in the Avaries. Rare animals on the farm also include the pygmy goats, micro pigs and you can get the chance to be driven around the farm on their own tractor and carriage.

With the inclement Irish weather experienced this summer, Ivan has also provided for the rain and he has built a large indoor play area in a converted barn where children can play pool and there is a designated party and picnic area. There is also an outdoor play area, Zip Wire, Crazy Golf and a Go-Kart Track so the children will be highly entertained.

School Tours, Children's Parties and Group visits can also be accommodated with special packages available. It is certainly the ultimate family day out with something for everyone regardless of the weather.

Rumley's Open Farm is open seven days a week, Monday to Saturday from 11am to 6pm and from Sunday from 12pm to 6pm and is located off the N71 Road to Bandon. Car Parking is available and they offer Family Day Passes as well as vouchers to visit their Open Farm.

See www.rumleysfarm.ie for more information or ring 021-4885122 / 087-6564695 / 086-2613262 and check their Facebook page for more information.