There’s nothing quite like an hour or two amongst animals to spark wonder in little ones. Here are 10 of the best children’s farms in Belgium – one per province.
Liz and I – and our four children and two grandchildren – have certainly visited our share of children’s farms over the years. I can honestly say that each visit led to a lot of fun, joy, and wonder. At these charming, interactive farms, kids learn empathy and responsibility by feeding goats, grooming ponies, hugging rabbits, or steering donkeys on scenic strolls. Whether it’s cuddling alpacas in Limburg or exploring flower-strewn petting pens in Walloon Brabant, each farm delivers a hands-on adventure that enriches mind and heart. So I thought I’d put together a list of 10 top children’s farms in Belgium – one in each Belgian province. If you want to discover more, you can visit my post on 66 children’s farms in Belgium!
1. Antwerp – De Lentehei (Herentals)
A local gem boasting classic farmyard charm – pet goats, sheep, and rabbits in the cuddle pen, with a playground and café on-site. It’s a wonderful location in green surroundings, with a great terrace and playground for kids. More information.
2. East Flanders – Direboe (Ninove)
Brush ponies and donkeys; feed the lambs; milk “Bella” the cow; and enjoy a farm-made ice-cream. More information.
3. Flemish Brabant – Het Neerhof (Dilbeek)
A family favourite near Brussels. Sheltering farm animals including rabbits, goats, chickens, ducks (and duck races!) – and even miniature donkeys – plus interactive paddocks and playgrounds. More information.
2. Limburg – De Alpacaboerderij (Bocholt)
Swap sheep for silky alpacas! Over 70 friendly alpacas await cuddles and guided obstacle-course walks. Visitors can feed them and explore the on-site wool-processing mill. More information.
5. West Flanders – Lettenhof (Middelkerke)
A seaside province pick! Overlooking the dunes, children can feed and pet ponies, goats, sheep, rabbits and chickens. Educational crafts round out the kids’ experience. Ideal for an afternoon by the seaside. More information.
6. Hainaut – Ferme du Planois (Hennuyères)
Feed the animals, pet the rabbits, give hay to the goats, bottle-feed the lambs, collect the eggs from the chickens, and more. More information.
7. Liège – Libertydando (Aywaille)
Youngsters aged 12 and over can saddle up for a guided horse-riding trek across fields, forests, and peaceful farm paths. Go for 2 hours or a full day with a picnic. More information.
8. Luxembourg – La Ferme Du Pré Charmant (Grandhan-Durbuy)
A hands-on grazing paradise where children pet goats, pigs, donkeys, and even ride a donkey through woodland trails. There’s also a small farm shop with cheese and eggs. More information.
9. Namur – Anes et Co (Walcourt)
Donkeys, donkeys, and more donkeys. Stroke them, feed them, brush them, ride them. More information.
10. Walloon Brabant – Ferme de la Vallée (Vieux-Genappe)
Workshops include : daily care and well-being of farm animals; discovering how farm products are made and processed; cooking with seasonal farm ingredients; arts & crafts. More information.
As with my post on 10 top castles in Belgium, Belgium isn’t just made of the ten provinces; it’s Brussels-Capital Region too. So here’s a bonus children’s farm in Brussels:
Bonus: Brussels: Ferme Nos Pilifs (Neder-Over-Heembeek)
A unique “adapted-work farm” operated by and for people with disabilities. Spanning 5 hectares, the farm blends eco-gardening, animal care, and a mission to foster social and environmental awareness. Meet pigs, goats, sheep, rabbits, bees and more in the farmyard and petting areas. Visit the on-site organic grocery, bakery, and café. More information.
Conclusion
Thanks to this list, no matter where you are in Belgium this summer, there’s a children’s farm within easy reach. They will spark children’s curiosity, nurture care for animals, and offer precious unplugged time outdoors. They are perfect for educational outings, birthday adventures, or spontaneous explorations with little feet. So gather your flock, load the snacks, pack the muddy boots, and get ready for lots of giggles on your next family day out!
And don’t forget: I also offer an eBook of Children’s Outdoor Activities in Belgium. It has over 550 suggestions! And if farms are of interest to you, what about my post on How to Identify Farm Crops on a Country Walk? In the meantime, if you want to hear about other suggestions for children’s activities, just subscribe to stay in touch:
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I created Discovering Belgium in 2011 to share the country’s hidden stories, fascinating places, and remarkable people. Through articles, photography, and audio walks, I share discoveries that reveal Belgium beyond the obvious. Hope you enjoy this site.
I read in the Netherlands Times that there are greater outbreaks of pneumonia near goat farms.
Oh dear that doesn’t sound good, those poor goats.