Monk Park Farm, Thirsk: An insight into how to care for, and love, pigs

The move comes as research commissioned by Red Tractor this week underlined how British food, animal welfare and production standards remain highly valued. The Trust In Food Index study found 93 per cent of consumers said they lacked understanding about food production and 87 per cent said they experienced confusion at the point of purchase, illustrating what many in the sector say is a growing disconnect between shoppers and farming. During the one-hour private experience, participants will work alongside Monk Park Farm's farmers, learning about the daily care, feeding and welfare of the farm's pigs and piglets.

Guests will begin with a safety briefing before heading into the pig pens to help prepare feeds, create enrichment activities and make tasty treats designed to keep the pigs active, healthy and entertained.

The experience follows a series of successful animal encounters at the attraction, which was originally a working farm and transformed to give people a chance to experience farm life up close. The experience also provides an insight into life as a pig keeper, with participants helping to muck out pens, lay fresh bedding and assist with day-to-day husbandry tasks.

Once the work is complete, guests can spend time with the pigs. From feeding treats and brushing coats to giving belly scratches and helping apply skin oils, visitors will have plenty of opportunities to get up close to the animals while learning about their unique personalities.

Previous efforts to boost animal experiences have included an extension to ts petting barn in 2022 and pig racing launched the following year.

Natalie Fennell, of Monk Park Farm, said: "Pigs are often one of the most misunderstood animals on the farm, but they're incredibly intelligent, curious and affectionate. This experience gives guests a chance to see first-hand just how much care goes into looking after them, while also creating some really special memories with the animals."

The pig keeper experience at Monk Park Farm follows it proving a hit at a few farm attractions across the country. The Kew Little Pigs Farm attraction in Buckinghamshire offers a range of experiences, including a “comprehensive guide” to keeping pigs and even a pig pet and play session before relaxing at a local spa.

Piglets Adventure Farm on Towthorpe, near York, invites visitors to view expectant gilts and sows and new-born piglets, Hesketh Park Farm at Bolton Abbey invites visitors to brush its pigs, while charity Pigs in the Wood in Scissett, Huddersfield offers experiences to see rescued pigs living naturally.

Places on the Monk Park Farm pig experience are limited and advance booking is essential.

For details, visit monkparkfarm.co.uk.