Community Open Days

Join us at Mary Arden’s Farm this summer for a series of special community events that promise fun for all the family.

19 & 26 July and 16 & 23 August 2025 11am to 3pm

As well as an opportunity to explore the farm, including guided tours of Palmer’s Farmhouse, and see our collection of heritage breed animals, you and your family will be able to witness some traditional crafts in action.

Our friends from the Arts Rising Collective, based at the newly opened Brook Arts Hub, will host a creative space where visitors can get hands on, inspired by the Shakespeare family and Shakespeare’s works.

Plus, enjoy interactive sessions led by our dedicated learning team, giving you and insight to the engaging learning programme that is delivered at Mary Arden’s Farm throughout the year.

You can also speak to members of the SBT volunteering team and discover what opportunities are available across the Trust, as well as the benefits of becoming a volunteer.

Planning Ahead

There is no need to pre-book to take part in any of community open days at Mary Arden’s Farm. Simply arrive at the Farm and a friendly member of the SBT team will welcome you and after taking a few details admit you and your family to enjoy your day.

Parking is available on site and will be assigned on a first come, first served basis.

Visitors are encouraged to bring a picnic to enjoy during their visit. When enjoying your picnic, we ask that you bring a blanket to sit on, as there are a limited number of picnic benches.

There will be a selection of refreshments, including hot and cold drinks, crisps, cakes and snacks available to purchase to accompany your picnic thanks to Horse Cart Hospitality. They will be located in the car park so you can stock up on treats on arrival.

Water bottle filling stations are available across the property.

As most of the activities take place outside and not under cover, visitors are encouraged to wear appropriate footwear and clothing for changeable weather conditions and a farm setting.

4 special dates to visit Mary Arden's Farm

Saturday 19 July

Saturday 26 July

Saturday 16 August

Saturday 23 August

Your Support

As part of our commitment to ensuring that these much-loved properties remain at the heart of their communities, the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust is offering these events free of charge so that as many people as possible can take advantage and experience these special spaces for themselves.

By supporting this event you are helping to preserve the Shakespeare family homes for future generations.

You can donate during your visit to Mary Arden’s Farm or click here to donate today. Any amount donated is greatly appreciated and helps support the conservation work of the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust, including at Mary Arden’s Farm.