Rare Breeds Centre opens to visitors

A popular family farm attraction has reopened following the coronavirus lockdown.

The Rare Breeds Centre in Woodchurch welcomed members back from Monday with the general public invited from Tuesday onwards.

All visitors must pre-book a time slot online at least 24 hours in advance of their visit.

They will then receive an e-ticket which must be presented and scanned at a new outdoor admission point.

The centre boasts cows, pigs, sheep, goats and birds of prey.

Meeting the animal sessions will return but in family groups only.

These include pig racing daily at 11am and 3.15pm.

The birds of prey display in the falconry arena which takes place daily at 2.30pm is also back.

But tractor rides remain suspended until further notice.

Other changes include essential washing of hands before entering the farm, a new wider entrance with an arch to allow for social distancing and a patio takeaway area selling burgers.

A spokesman said: “We take our Covid security very seriously so please do not visit if you are showing symptoms of coronavirus or any other infectious disease.

“Annual memberships will automatically have the period of closure added to their end date eg: an additional four months.

“Even if you are a member you will need to book your slot online so we can just scan you in on the driveway.

“Please bring your membership cards.

“If you do not bring a valid membership card, we will be turning you away on the drive.”

The centre’s gift shop will remain closed but £10 surprise toy bags will be available to purchase.

The farm is open from 10am until the earlier time of 4.30pm everyday, to allow for extra cleaning.

Elsewhere, the Port Lympne and Howletts wild animal parks have been open for more than a month.

The parks - run by the Aspinall Foundation - reopened on Monday, June 15.