Historic Working Farm
'Tom Acton is a leading authority on Victorian farming and his enthusiasm is evident, for in an age when most landowners obliterated all trace of the past to modernize their property, the Actons lovingly preserved the history and heritage of theirs.' David Upshal, Executive Producer, 'Victorian Farm'.
The Acton Scott estate's 18th century Home Farm is the location for this popular visitor attraction. The original concept of demonstrating the farming practices of 1900 for the general public to enjoy was conceived by Thomas Acton in the 1970s. His foresight has helped to preserve many traditional rural skills that might otherwise be lost to modern day practices.
The site is managed day to day by Shropshire Council and the Working Farm is arguably the leading example of its kind. Providing a fascinating insight into rural life at the turn of the 19th century, the farm stocks many traditional breeds,while the land around is worked with heavy horses. There are daily demonstrations of period skills and visits from the Wheelwright, Farrier and Blacksmith, to complete the picture of life on a Victorian country estate.
The Farm has recently benefited from significant grant investment as a nationally important working museum. In close collaboration with the Actons, to ensure their authenticity and relevance to Acton Scott, a range of new visitor facilities, a significant building restoration project and improved information sources provide visitors with a better sense of life as a Victorian in a rural parish.
The Old School House is of particular interest, built by Frances Stackhouse Acton in the late 19th century, it has been sensitively renovated to restore many of the architectural features that were lost in the 1960s. It is the location of the Farm's café, which serves home cooked food and can cater for parties.
Visitor Information
The Farm is now closed for the winter and re-opens on Tuesday 30 March until Sunday 31 October 2010. For more information telephone 01694 781 307.
Open six days a week from Tuesday to Sunday and Bank Holidays
Tuesdays - Fridays (school holiday times), Saturdays, Sundays, Bank Holidays, 10.30am - 5.00pm and Tuesdays - Fridays (school term times), 10.00am - 4.30pm
2010 admission prices
Adults: £6.00
Senior Citizens: £5.50
Children: £3.75 (under 5s free)
Family Ticket (2 adults and 3 children): £21.00
Season Ticket Adults: £17.50
Season Ticket Children: £10.00
Adult Group and School visits and Children's party packages
Group, School and Children's party packages, for 2-12 year olds, very welcome, telephone 01694 781 307 for details.
Access and amenities
There is ample parking and most areas and activities are wheelchair accessible, with wheelchairs available on request.
The Gift shop and School House Cafe serving home cooked food, snacks and drinks, are both open from 10.30am - 4.15pm. An under cover picnic area is also available (open 1030am - 445pm).
Dogs (except guide or helping dogs) are not permitted on the Historic Working Farm site as stock roam freely. However, well behaved dogs on a lead may enjoy Acton Scott's guided walks.
Commercial photography and filming on the Historic Working Farm and wider Acton Scott Estate requires prior permission. For more information, please contact Rupert Acton on 07976 839 997 or email rupert.acton@actonscott.com
Click here for more information about Courses in Traditional Rural Crafts and Trades, at the Historic Working Farm, or telephone 01694 781 307.