The Ark Open Farm first opened its gates on 14th August 1990, founded by Stewart and Lorraine Donaldson. Over the years, it has grown in size and popularity, becoming one of County Down’s most beloved family attractions.
Now, Stewart and Lorraine have proudly passed the reins to the next generation, with the farm run on a daily basis by their son Barry, their daughter Lyndy and her husband Stuart (who officially joined the family in 2018 when they married in the enchanting Fairytale Forest).
You’ll still see Lorraine & Stewart around the farm, keeping an eye on their beloved animals and Lorraine will be preparing delicious homemade meals for the café, and baking her famous scones and traybakes for guests to enjoy.
Set within forty acres of unspoilt countryside, The Ark Open Farm is home to around 200 animals, including cattle, sheep, pigs, poultry, goats, donkeys, alpacas, deer, ponies, and more. Our family live in homes on the farm land so we can always be there when the animals (and our team!) need us. Lyndy and Stuart now have a little girl who is the first of the new generation to enjoy farming life.
We have a deep love for the animals and take immense pride and joy in caring for them, ensuring they are happy, healthy, and well-looked after. We truly are a family-run farm, supported by our wonderful team.
As well as being a multi award winning farm, we have had many other special memories along the way including a visit from the now Princess Of Wales, Kate Middleton in February 2020 when we got to show her around our farm and let her meet our animals. It was truly a day to remember – organising a Royal Visit is quite the experience.
© The Ark Open Farm Limited
Registered company number NI694742