It’s back! The Shire Horse Centre Farm – After over two decades, delighted to see its return – Located at Lower Dunstone Farm in Yealmpton, Plymouth.
Many local Plymouth people growing up in the 80s / 90s will remember this place well and we have huge nostalgia for it!
A bit of history of this iconic attraction… Initially opened as a large scale centre named ‘The National Shire Horse Centre’ in May 1978, the centre quickly became a massive success. Visitors could watch daily parades, farrier demonstrations, and heavy horses pulling traditional wagons. It wasn’t just horses, it featured a butterfly house, birds of prey, and a large indoor children’s play area with the famous steep ‘death slides’.
At its peak in the mid 1980s, it attracted over 300,000 visitors a year and was one of the most popular tourist attractions in the South West. However, in the late 90s a combination of declining visitor numbers and the rejection of expansion plans eventually led to its closure in 2000.
The site carries significant weight in the history of the Shire Horse breed and once held the Guinness World Record for the World’s Tallest Living Horse, Boringdon Black King, who stood at 19.2 hands.
Now in 2026, the name lives on through a smaller scale farm operation at the same location called ‘The Shire Horse Centre Farm’. It offers a more intimate experience where visitors can meet resident Shires like Dan, Mowgli, and Willow. Visit an indoor soft play area (The Crazy Carriage) and enjoy animal tours, catering mostly to young families. The commitment to honouring the Shire breed remains at the core of the Yealmpton site and there is plenty to see and do on a visit.
The 2026 season offers a mix of traditional farm life and modern play facilities. Key Attractions & Activities include:
1. The Shire Horses
The stars of the show are the Shire horses. Visitors can get up close to these massive, powerful animals that played such a vital role in British agricultural history. The centre focuses on education and preservation, sharing the story of how these horses were once the backbone of the industry.
2. “The Crazy Carriage” Indoor Play
A major draw for families with younger children, this indoor play area is designed for children under 5’2″. It features:
- Pyramid climbs and slides.
- Tunnels and crawl-throughs.
- Toddler & Baby Zone: A dedicated, safe space for the smallest visitors.
- Refreshments: A café area serving hot lattes, cold drinks, sandwiches, and local Devon pasties.
3. Diverse Animal Encounters
Beyond the Shires, the farm is a bustling community of creatures great and small. Depending on the season, you might witness the arrival of new foals or lambs.
- The Stables: Home to horses, donkeys, and alpacas.
- Small & Furry: Meet the rabbits, ferrets, and meerkats.
- Feathered Friends: Visit the aviaries for budgies, canaries, and an array of ducks, geese, and chickens.
- Farm Favourites: Say hello to the sheep, goats, and rams.
4. Extra Fun & Exploration
- Birds of Prey: Marvel at the grace of resident raptors.
- Crazy Golf: A classic outdoor activity for some friendly family competition.
- Enchanted Garden: A tranquil space designed for exploration and quiet discovery.
Visiting Information
The centre typically operates on a seasonal schedule, welcoming visitors from the spring through the autumn.
Opening Hours: Generally 11am to 4pm on scheduled open days.
Booking: It is highly recommended to book online in advance, as certain time slots, especially for indoor play, can fill up quickly.
Tip: If you are visiting from Plymouth, the centre is a short drive (approx. 15–20 minutes) via the A379 toward Yealmpton. Check their official calendar for specific “Bank Holiday” events, as these often feature additional demonstrations.
