Kentish Town City Farm, the UK's first city farm, saddles up for a new chapter

Long before city farms became a familiar part of urban life, a group of neighbours in Kentish Town had an idea. In 1972 a local community group started a farm on a former timber yard squeezed between two railway lines, and Kentish Town City Farm became the UK's very first city farm.

More than half a century later, the four acre site in Camden is still going strong. It is a local charity that helps city people connect with animals, nature and the environment, and it remains free to visit, seven days a week from 9am to 5pm, with no booking required.

The residents are a big part of the appeal. Visitors can meet hens, goats, donkeys, sheep, guinea pigs and pigs, as well as Shirley the cow. Time Out notes that printed biographies introduce each animal, and suggests looking out for frogs in the wildlife pond.

The farm's programme reaches deep into the community. There is an education programme for schools, work experience for students, and farm and garden activities for local children and families. The Young Farmers Club welcomes 8 to 16 year olds, and other sessions include community gardening, cooking in the farm kitchen, therapeutic horticulture, Pet Club, Holiday Hub and Nature Detectives.

Horses have always been part of the farm's story, and they are now at the centre of its next chapter. The riding arena is being redeveloped, and in September 2026 the farm advertised for a Horse Programme Coordinator to support its yard manager and new equine programme. The farm's website lists a Riding Programme and Half Term Horse Camp.

There is plenty happening outdoors too. Earlier this year the farm teamed up with Permablitz London to plant a new edible, wildlife friendly hedge, replacing one lost in a landslide in 2022, and local volunteers grow a mix of familiar and more unusual vegetables in the community garden.

Supporters can help in many ways, from donating through fundraising campaigns to volunteering on the farm.

Kentish Town City Farm is at 1 Cressfield Close, off Grafton Road, NW5 4BN, a short walk from Kentish Town and Gospel Oak stations. For activities, volunteering and news, visit ktcityfarm.org.uk.