Marsh Farm Magic Heading for Lee Valley

Marsh Farm – part of the Partyman group, successfully won the bid to take over the farm on a leasehold. The popular visitor farm, which will now be known as Lee Valley Animal Adventure Park, will re-open to the public on 28th April.  

The new operator, run by successful Essex businessman James Sinclair, has a wealth of experience in the family leisure sector having taken over Marsh Farm Animal Adventure Park in South Woodham, Ferrers from Essex County Council back in 2013. The farm has been transformed into a spectacular day out visited by thousands of families across the South East every month. 

Known for its events such as the Bubble ‘n’ Bop Children’s Festival, Halloween Festival and The Father Christmas Experience, the site has gone from strength to strength since its takeover, with constant expansions and developments improving the offering and experience.

On winning the bid, James said, “I’m thrilled to be taking on Lee Valley Animal Adventure Park. I have a real passion for making memories for families, hence why I started my career as a children’s entertainer. I’ve always dreamed of owning a zoo, and whilst Lee Valley doesn’t necessarily currently resemble the typical vision of a zoo, it does have a zoo license, which means the potential here is huge.”

He added: “Regular visitors to the site will be pleased to know that all the animals are staying, with children, and adults alike, still being able to delight at the falconry displays, watch the meerkats at play and feed the farm animals”. 

Chief Executive at Lee Valley Regional Park Authority, Shaun Dawson said: “We’re delighted to announce that Partyman World will be taking over the running of our ever popular visitor farm in Waltham Abbey which has entertained generations of young people and their families since opening in 1977. Although operated by a separate organisation, the farm will remain a key visitor attraction in the park and we’re confident that the experienced team at Marsh Farm will provide the significant investment and the focus to enable the venue to really fulfil its potential”.

Marsh Farm, who have retained all the original staff from Lee Valley Park Farm, have ambitious plans for the newly named Lee Valley Animal Adventure Park and will start introducing their signature magic to the site, with the addition of events and new play areas, making it an even more fun filled, great value day out.

With the site having now been closed for 18 months, staff are working hard to make sure that the farm is ready to open again to the public for the end of April, and are excited to finally welcome back visitors. 

Head to www.leevalleyfarm.co.uk to book tickets and hear all the latest news from the farm.