About Baston Fen Farm
Baston Fen Farm is a working arable farm consisting of 450 acres at Baston Fen and Langtoft Fen in South Lincolnshire and a further 300 acres at Ketton, near Stamford, Lincolnshire. The farm has been in the Whattoff family for three generations and is now currently run by David Whattoff. The farm used to employ up to 30 people but with the increased farm machinery power and falling farm prices, David now farms with the help of his wife and one full time employee.
The farm grows wheat, barley, potatoes, beans, peas, oilseed rape and sugar beet. There is also a small vineyard which has recently been planted in partnership with a local Master of Wine.
Baston Fen Farm is situated in the strategic position adjacent to Baston Fen SSSI (Site of Special Scientific Interest). The landscape is the last remaining fragment of Lincolnshire's once vast fenland landscape. The farm has successfully joined the Countryside Stewardship Scheme and the Entry Level Scheme to create wildlife-only habitats. The farm is presently involved in a project with DEFRA to create a wetland habitat adjacent to the River Glen. It has planted over 1000 metres of new hedging and land has been taken out of food production to improve the wildlife and environment.
David is very keen to promote farming, the environment and the countryside to educate young children. He is committed to promoting British Agriculture and ensuring children growing up today are aware of where their food comes from. He is fully qualified within the Agricultural Sector and undertakes regular training courses to keep up to date with any changes of legislation. The farm is a member of FACE (Farming & Countryside Education), Lincolnshire Agricultural Society, FFS (Farms For Schools), and FWAG (Farming and Wildlife Advisory Group). The farm is also accredited to CEVAS (Countryside Educational Visits Accreditation Scheme) which ensures both the staff and the farm are suitable for school visits.
Farm Visits
If you are interested in a farm visit please contact David or Di Whattoff on the numbers below. We would like to meet you before your visit to discuss your group requirements. We can then tailor your visit to link into your curriculum requirements. It is also an opportunity to discuss Health & Safety precautions.
The maximum number of pupils we like is 30, accompanied by teachers and volunteers of a ratio of 1 adult : 10 children. We expect your visit to last approx two hours depending on your requirements. There is no charge for the visit.
There is sufficient parking for one large coach or three smaller minibuses. Alternatively, parking is available for five or six cars. Any disabled or special needs facilities can be arranged. Toilet facilities are available.
Contact Details
David or Di Whattoff
Baston Fen Farm, Baston Fen, Peterborough, Cambs PE6 9PU
Telephone: 01775 670242, Mobile: 07957 361454
Email: admin'AT'bastonfenfarm.co.uk
Directions to farm
From the A15 turn off at Baston crossroads into the village of Baston towards Baston Fen. You will go past the village shop(on your right) and the Baskervilles pub(on your left). Stay on this road for approx 2 miles. Baston Fen Farm is on the left with blue gates either side of the road. Take the second entrance down to the farmyard where David and Di will be awaiting your arrival. |
