As farmers continuously seek new methods of diversification, the emergence of new life during spring may inspire the idea of hosting public open lambing events.

This allows the public to learn and visually understand one of the many aspects of life on the farm, including the roots of how their food is produced as visitors may be encouraged to bottle feed pet lambs or even watch ewes lambing.

However, it is important to follow correct procedures before and while allowing members of the public access to the farm. Open Farm Sunday, managed by LEAF (Linking Environment and Farming), offers guidance to farmers considering joining 1600 other farmers across the UK to host more than 2.7m visitors for one Sunday each year, this year dated June 9.

Before opening your farm, consider the following steps:

  • Public liability insurance – Inform your insurance company and consider obtaining a minimum of £5m public liability insurance.
  • Risk assessment – It is crucial to identify hazards and control associated risks. A generic assessment sheet is available on the Farm Sunday website.
  • Industry code of practice – It is vital to consider visitor health and safety by providing sensible, practical, and understandable guidance to prevent or control ill health at your farm, especially if livestock is present.
  • Any farm considering hosting lambing open days notifies their local environmental health officer.