If you’re looking for a day filled with joy, laughter, and unforgettable moments, a visit to Woolly Experiences Therapy Farm is an absolute must.
We recently visited as part of our tour of North Wales (the farm is near Mold) and experienced the Ultimate Package – and what a beautiful way to end our trip. It was one of those days that left us feeling completely refreshed and happy. From the moment we set foot on the farm, it felt like we were transported to another world – one filled with woolly wonders and animal magic. Here’s a look at our unforgettable experience as part of the Ultimate Experience – but we also stayed a night on the farm which we talk about here.
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The Ultimate Package: A Dream Come True for Animal Lovers
We opted for the Ultimate Package for our visit, and from start to finish, it was everything we had hoped for and more. This package is perfect for those who want to experience the farm at its best. With about two hours of private activity time, we had the chance to get up close and personal with all of Woolly Experiences’ delightful residents.
Upon arrival, we were greeted by Zia, the wonderful host, whose warmth and passion for the animals were evident from the moment we stepped foot on the farm. Zia’s care for the animals is exceptional, and it’s clear she has formed deep bonds with each of them. She’s created an atmosphere where the animals feel safe and comfortable with human interaction, and we got to experience that firsthand.
Meeting the Woolly Crew
The highlight of the experience was meeting the therapy animals. And when we say “meeting,” we mean it!
We had the privilege – and it was a privilege – of meeting a giant donkey (who, despite the name, isn’t that big and is incredibly gentle), a couple of adorable mini donkeys, the softest Shetland ponies you can imagine, the alpaca girls and boys, and, of course, Rambo the sheep – and a few others we’ll leave as surprises! There’s something truly magical about being surrounded by animals that exude such calm and gentle energy, especially when they seem just as curious about us as we were about them.
One of the most fun parts of the experience was the alpaca picnic. Yes, you read that right – the alpacas (and Rambo) enjoy a little picnic of their own, and we got to hold their bowls while they munch away. Even surrounded by a woolly wall, you always feel safe and at ease – though it gets a bit messy!
We also got to hand feed the alpaca boys on their field, and they are so gentle you can actually do the ‘Alpaca kiss’ – think Lady and the Tramp spaghetti kiss but with a carrot and a fluffy South American! (This is completely optional – but is great fun!)
A Stroll with Ella and Fifi: Mini Shetland Pony Adventure
One of the most memorable parts of our visit was the 30-minute walk with the mini Shetland ponies, Ella and Fifi. These little ponies are relatively new to the farm, and they were a complete delight to walk with.
We took them along a quiet country road, surrounded by fields and fresh air. Ella was all about the walk, trotting along calmly as we strolled, but Fifi? Well, she had her own idea of how things should go. Fifi absolutely loves being walked, but she’s a bit stubborn when it comes to turning around and heading back to the farm. We quickly realized that Fifi had a strong opinion on when and where she was ready to turn around, and that wasn’t quite when we wanted her to!
To coax her back, we used a tried-and-true trick: carrots.
Fifi’s love for carrots definitely outweighed her desire to keep wandering, and with a little bribery, she turned around and trotted back towards the farm with us, happily munching on her treats. It was such a cute moment.
There was something so heartwarming about walking alongside these gentle ponies.
If you’re looking for a bit of adventure with a side of humor, walking Ella and Fifi is an experience you won’t want to miss. They may be small, but their personalities are full of character!
Therapy Chickens and Grooming Time
In addition to the alpacas and shetlands, the therapy chickens were an unexpected delight. These gentle creatures are a huge part of the therapy experience at Woolly, and their calm presence added another layer of serenity to our visit. But perhaps the most therapeutic experience was grooming the donkeys. If you’ve ever wondered if donkeys love a good scratch behind the ears, the answer is yes! We only had a few minutes with them but the donkeys were so relaxed and sweet, and it was the perfect way to spend a quiet moment with these loving animals. We also learned a lot about them that casts them in a different light – for example, they bond for life, and have a great memory for faces. Zia provides information on all the animals as you’re with them and it really adds to the experience.
A Perfect Experience for All
Even though we visited in March, and while the weather was dry, we’d bet that Woolly Experiences would be just as magical even if it were a little rainy. The farm is set up so well that we were never really far from shelter, and there’s something comforting about being surrounded by animals, no matter the weather. Even if it’s drizzling, we can imagine it would only add to the peaceful vibe of the place.
For us, this was especially important since Kirsty was pregnant at the time. The animals were incredibly gentle and seemed to know just how to interact with her. They make you feel at peace, and we can’t think of a better environment to unwind and connect with animals in a hands on way.
Beyond the Animals: The Heart of Woolly Experiences
Woolly Experiences isn’t just about petting farm animals; it’s about creating healing and meaningful memories. As a care farm, as well as hosting visitors like us, they focus on helping people with autism, ADHD, mental health challenges, and terminal illnesses as well as other therapeutic needs. This unique mission shines through in every aspect of the farm, from the animals’ soothing presence to the way Zia interacts with visitors. It’s clear that Woolly Experiences is not just a place for animal encounters – it’s a place for healing, connection, and creating memories that last a lifetime.
Our Recommendation
After our visit, we couldn’t recommend Woolly Experiences enough. Whether you’re an animal lover, someone seeking therapeutic interactions, or just looking for a unique experience in nature, this place has it all. Zia, the animals, and the tranquil setting combine to make Woolly Experiences a place you won’t soon forget. It’s a perfect getaway for families, couples, or anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life. We will definitely be returning when our little one has arrived!
So, if you’re in search of a day filled with heartwarming animal encounters, laughter, and a deep sense of peace, we wholeheartedly encourage you to book the Ultimate Package at Woolly Experiences. It’s an experience we’ll remember for a long time.
And remember – you can also stay the night. Read more about that here.
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