Drum Farm, Drumnadrochit
FUN FOR ALL DOWN ON THE FARM
Drumnadrochit
attracts visitors from the world over thanks to its location on
the shores of Loch Ness but as Lynsey Stewart has been finding out,
there's more to the picturesque Highland village than just Nessie
hunting.
Looking for the Loch Ness Monster is
a fairly major activity in Drumnadrochit. Thousands of visitors
come from all over all year round to catch a glimpse of the elusive
Nessie and make the most of the breathtaking scenery at the same
time.
Then there are the boat trips out onto the loch and the chance to
visit the official Loch Ness Exhibition Centre. But there's another
attraction just down the road from the monster exhibition which
is also proving a major hit, particularly with younger visitors.
The Drum Farm Centre, owned and run by Don and June Fraser, aims
to give children (and adults) the chance to visit a working farm,
see a range of animals and find out a little more about farming
and the countryside.
"The main emphasis is on fun," says June who came up with the idea
for the centre. "But also through this we want to keep a generation
interested in farming and educate younger generations about rural
life."
Geared towards nursery, pre-school and primary children as well
as families, Drum Farm Centre is housed in former farm buildings
built around a central courtyard. It's here that energetic youngsters
can burn off their extra energy by scooting round on a range of
mini tractors.
And thanks to the strategically placed tearoom with its extensive
windows parents can keep a watchful eye on the proceedings while
taking it easy with a cup of tea.
Other attractions include the Giant Trailer ride which takes visitors
round the farm itself and offers an insight into life down on the
farm. The ride, which runs throughout the day and is included in
the admission price, also gives visitors the chance to meet and
feed some of the farm residents including the Highland Cows. During
the lambing season there's also the chance to feed the new arrivals.
Even if the weather takes a turn for the worse there's plenty to
keep the wee ones amused. Indoors there are trampolines and a giant
play barn kitted out with rope swings and plenty of straw to guarantee
a soft landing. For the less adventurous there is the cuddle corner
with its cute collection of Drum Farm Centre bunnies while the classroom
upstairs provides a quiet spot away from the outside attractions
and is perfect for the young book-worm to read and learn about farming.
The tea-room is also a must on any visit to Drum Farm. Not only
does it provide parents with a comfortable vantage point but it
offers the most delicious home-baking too. Although it offers a
range of hot meals, filled rolls, baked potatoes and soup it is
famed for its amazing scones and creamy cakes. They alone are worth
a visit!
" We aim to give customers the whole experience - somewhere to play,
relax, get good coffee and home-baking, " says June. "We aim to
exceed their expectations.
"Of course the kids are the most important people in the place.
If they're happy it keeps everybody happy too."
The farm is open from 10am to 4pm from April to mid-October.
Admission is £3 for adults and £2.30 for children aged two to 15.
Family tickets are also available for two adults and two children
for £10.
For more information contact Drum Farm Centre, The Village Green,
Drumnadrochit, Loch Ness on (01456) 450788 or check out their web
site at http://www.drumfarm.demon.co.uk
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