Deen City Farm

From Phipps Bridge to Bunces Meadow

Deen City Farm began life in 1978 on a patch of open ground in Merton where the Phipps Bridge housing estate now stands. A group of local residents saw an opportunity to create a community space that would connect south London families with farm life, and the venture quickly took root. After occupying several temporary sites around the borough, the farm moved in 1994 to its current five-acre home on Bunces Meadow, part of the National Trust's Morden Hall Park estate.

The meadow sits beside the River Wandle, one of the cleanest chalk streams in London, and the farm's boundary runs alongside the Wandle Trail. The relocation allowed the charity to build purpose-designed animal enclosures, a riding arena and community gardens. Today the farm is one of only a handful of London attractions that combines free animal encounters, a working riding school and direct access to a National Trust park.

What to See and Do

The farm's paddocks and pens are the main draw. Donkeys, goats, pigs, Shetland cows, an alpaca called Kimby and assorted poultry are all resident, with several rare breeds among them. The animals are well accustomed to visitors, and children can get close without barriers in many areas. Staff and volunteers are usually on hand to answer questions and supervise handling sessions.

The riding school operates from a covered arena and outdoor paddock, offering pony rides for children as young as two and structured lessons from age eight upwards. A RoboHorse simulator provides a gentler introduction for nervous beginners. Beyond the animals, the community gardens, adventure playground and Brioche Farmhouse Cafe round out a visit. The cafe serves light meals, sandwiches and cakes, with outdoor tables overlooking the paddocks.

The Wandle Trail and Nearby

Deen City Farm's position on the Wandle Trail makes it easy to extend a visit. A short walk south along the river leads to Morden Hall Park, a 125-acre National Trust property with a rose garden, wetlands and a working watermill. Heading north, the trail passes through Merton Abbey Mills, a small arts and crafts village with weekend markets, independent shops and a pub garden beside the river.

Colliers Wood, a 15-minute walk away, has cafes and supermarkets for supplies. The tramlink stops at Phipps Bridge and Morden Road are both within 10 minutes on foot, connecting the farm to Wimbledon and Croydon. If you are driving, parking is very limited on Windsor Avenue and the car park closes at 5pm, so public transport or the Wandle Trail are the better options.