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About Rare Breeds Centre
The Rare Breeds Centre is a working 100-acre farm and tourist attraction based in Woodchurch, Kent. Surrounded by the beautiful Kentish countryside, The Rare Breeds Centre is home to many rare and native breeds of farm livestock and is approved by the Rare Breeds Survival Trust, with everything from pigs and sheep to horses, chickens and cows.
The Rare Breeds Centre is a well-known attraction and there's so much to do, with visitors young and old coming to enjoy the exotic butterfly tunnel, the Discovery Garden, the woodland walks, the Secret Lake, the outdoor playgrounds and assault courses. Pig racing and tractor-trailer rides run throughout the day, featuring a new accessible trailer with space for one wheelchair. As well as 'Meet the Animal' sessions in the Children's Barn.
The Granary Restaurant is open every day (except Mondays and Tuesdays during the winter months) offering tasty, freshly cooked food at great prices, including burgers, paninis, jacket potatoes and a kid's menu, with vegan and vegetarian options available too. There are also catering kiosks in other areas of the farm where families can purchase ice cream, coffees and snacks.
The centre runs special seasonal events throughout the year which are always great fun and hugely popular, including Halloween, Christmas and Easter, so it's worth keeping an eye on their social media pages to see what's on. The Rare Breeds Centre is run by The Canterbury Oast Trust, which is a charity based in Kent that supports adults with learning disabilities. Many service users and life-skills students work and live on-site at the Rare Breeds Centre, and your visit helps them to continue their work. As an attraction, the Rare Breeds Centre is an autism-friendly site so if you are planning to visit and have specific requirements, feel free to get in touch with the staff in advance and they will be happy to try and help.
Facilities at Rare Breeds Centre
- Coaches welcome
- Gift shop
- Groups welcome
- Guide Dogs, Hearing Dogs and Registered Assistance Dogs welcome
- Restaurant / Cafe / Tea shop
- Suitable for families
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Related Events & Offers
Christmas Gift Market at The Rare Breeds Centre
Event Dates:
14th Nov 2026
- 15th Nov 2026
There’s something truly special about a Christmas gift market — the… There’s something truly special about a Christmas gift market — the twinkling lights and the…
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A Truly Magical Christmas at The Rare Breeds Centre
Event Dates:
28th Nov 2026
- 23rd Dec 2026
Step into the magic of Christmas at the Rare Breeds Centre and make… Step into the magic of Christmas at the Rare Breeds Centre and make memories to treasure all season…
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Halloween Fun at The Rare Breeds Centre
Event Dates:
24th Oct 2026
- 1st Nov 2026
Effel Fartwaffer is back once again, bringing plenty of Halloween fun and… Effel Fartwaffer is back once again, bringing plenty of Halloween fun and mischief to the farm for…
View EventFrequently asked questions
- What is the Rare Breeds Centre?
The Rare Breeds Centre is a family-friendly farm attraction near Ashford, set within 100 acres of Kent countryside. It is home to more than 200 animals, including many rare and endangered farm breeds that the centre helps to protect
- Where is the Rare Breeds Centre located?
The Rare Breeds Centre is located in Kent, near Ashford, making it an ideal day out for families, animal lovers, and visitors exploring the region.
- What animals can I see?
Visitors can meet over 200 animals, including a variety of rare farm breeds, as well as enjoy animal petting opportunities and hands-on experiences throughout the farm
- Is the Rare Breeds Centre suitable for families?
Yes. The attraction is designed for families and offers a wide range of activities for children, including adventure play parks, tractor rides, soft play, animal encounters, storytelling sessions, and seasonal events
- Can children interact with the animals?
Yes. The Children's Barn offers opportunities to meet and interact with selected animals, making it a popular part of the visitor experience