The Cliffs of Moher petting zoo, officially known as Moher Hill Open Farm, is a delightful family attraction located near the iconic Cliffs of Moher in County Clare, Ireland. This charming farm offers visitors a unique opportunity to interact with a variety of animals, enjoy outdoor activities, and experience rural Irish life. With its stunning views of Liscannor Bay and proximity to one of Ireland’s most famous landmarks, Moher Hill Open Farm provides an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.
What Are the Operating Hours and Admission Fees?
Planning your visit to Moher Hill Open Farm is essential to make the most of your experience. Here’s what you need to know about the farm’s operating hours and admission fees:
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Note: Indoor areas close at 4:30 PM on weekdays and 5:30 PM on weekends.
Admission Fees:
Category | Price |
---|---|
Adult | €10 |
Senior Citizens | €8 |
Child | €10 (€8 for children under 3 years) |
Children under 18 months | Free |
Where Is the Farm Located?
Moher Hill Open Farm is conveniently situated near the world-famous Cliffs of Moher, making it an ideal stop for tourists exploring the area. The farm’s exact location is:
Moher Hill Open Farm
Cliffs of Moher Road
Liscannor, Co. Clare
V95 XK00, Ireland
The farm’s strategic position offers visitors breathtaking views of Liscannor Bay, adding to the overall experience of the visit.
What Animals Can You Interact With at the Farm?
One of the main attractions of Moher Hill Open Farm is the wide variety of animals that visitors can interact with. The farm is home to numerous species, both domestic and exotic, providing a unique opportunity for animal lovers of all ages. Here’s a list of some of the animals you can expect to encounter:
- Ponies
- Goats
- Soay Sheep
- Ostrich & Emu
- Fresian Cow
- Miniature Horses
- Galway Sheep
- Alpaca
- Donkey
- Llama
- Jacob Sheep
- Kune Kune Pigs
- Miniature Donkeys
- Falabella Horses
In addition to these, you’ll also meet some special residents like Ozzie the ostrich and Maisie the Highland Cow, who have become local celebrities at the farm.
What Activities Are Available for Visitors?
Moher Hill Open Farm offers a wide range of activities to keep visitors entertained throughout their visit. These activities are designed to cater to different age groups and interests, ensuring that everyone in the family has a memorable experience.
Outdoor Activities:
- Fairy trail
- Animal paddocks for feeding and petting
- Antique farm machinery display
- Mini golf course
- Outdoor go-karts
- Play areas
- Picnic areas
Indoor Activities:
- Under 5 years old play area
- Bouncing castle
- Indoor go-karts
- Ball pool
- Indoor sand area
- Indoor picnic area
These activities provide a perfect balance of educational and recreational experiences, allowing visitors to learn about farm life while having fun.
What Facilities Are Available at the Farm?
To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable visit, Moher Hill Open Farm provides various facilities for its guests. These include:
- Coffee shop
- Toilets
- Outdoor hygiene station
- Picnic areas
- Baby changing facilities
- Wheelchair accessibility
It’s important to note that only guide or assistance dogs are allowed on the farm premises.
What Safety Rules Should Visitors Follow?
To ensure the safety of both visitors and animals, Moher Hill Open Farm has established a set of rules and guidelines that all guests must follow:
- Always wash hands after feeding or touching the animals
- Children must be supervised by an adult at all times
- No climbing on gates or walls
- Keep your hand flat when feeding animals
- Do not feed the pigs from your hand
- Follow all safety instructions provided by the staff
Adhering to these rules will help maintain a safe and enjoyable environment for everyone at the farm.
How Does the Farm Contribute to Education and Conservation?
Moher Hill Open Farm plays a significant role in educating visitors about farm life, animal care, and rural Irish culture. The farm’s commitment to education and conservation is evident in several aspects of its operation:
-
Animal Welfare: The farm prioritizes the well-being of its animals, providing them with proper care, nutrition, and living conditions. This serves as an example of responsible animal husbandry for visitors.
-
Educational Tours: The farm offers guided tours that provide insights into the daily operations of a working farm, the characteristics of different animal species, and the importance of agriculture in Irish society.
-
Rare Breed Conservation: By housing and breeding rare animal species like Soay Sheep and Falabella Horses, the farm contributes to the preservation of genetic diversity in livestock.
-
Sustainable Practices: The farm implements environmentally friendly practices in its operations, showcasing the importance of sustainability in modern agriculture.
-
Interactive Learning: Through hands-on experiences like feeding animals and participating in farm activities, visitors gain a deeper understanding of rural life and the effort required to maintain a farm.
What Makes Moher Hill Open Farm Unique Among Petting Zoos?
Moher Hill Open Farm stands out from other petting zoos for several reasons:
-
Scenic Location: Its proximity to the Cliffs of Moher and views of Liscannor Bay provide a stunning backdrop for the farm experience.
-
Diverse Animal Collection: The farm houses a wide variety of animals, from common farm animals to more exotic species like alpacas and emus.
-
Blend of Activities: The combination of animal interactions, play areas, and educational displays offers a well-rounded experience for visitors of all ages.
-
Cultural Experience: As a working Irish farm, it provides insight into rural Irish life and agricultural practices.
-
Year-round Operation: Unlike some seasonal attractions, Moher Hill Open Farm is open throughout the year, allowing visitors to experience the farm in different seasons.
How Can Visitors Make the Most of Their Trip to Moher Hill Open Farm?
To ensure you have the best possible experience at Moher Hill Open Farm, consider the following tips:
-
Plan Your Visit: Check the opening hours and plan to arrive early to make the most of your day.
-
Dress Appropriately: Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes and bring a light jacket, as Irish weather can be unpredictable.
-
Bring Cash: While card payments are likely accepted, it’s always good to have some cash on hand for small purchases or animal feed.
-
Pack a Picnic: Take advantage of the picnic areas by bringing your own food and drinks.
-
Participate in Activities: Don’t shy away from hands-on experiences like feeding the animals or trying out the go-karts.
-
Ask Questions: The staff are knowledgeable and passionate about the animals and farm life. Don’t hesitate to ask them questions.
-
Combine with Cliffs Visit: Plan your trip to include a visit to the nearby Cliffs of Moher for a full day of Irish natural beauty and rural charm.
By following these suggestions, you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy all that Moher Hill Open Farm has to offer, creating lasting memories of your visit to this unique attraction near the Cliffs of Moher.
References:
1. https://www.moherfarm.com/plan-your-visit/
2. https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1184916-d2708230-Reviews-Moher_Hill_Open_Farm-Liscannor_County_Clare.html
3. https://www.moherfarm.com/