If you’re driving through the Sussex countryside near Eastbourne or Hailsham, you might see signs for a place that sounds like it belongs in a sci-fi novel. It’s called Space Farm Zoo Sussex, and honestly, the name confuses a lot of people at first. Is it about astronauts? Is it a high-tech lab? Not exactly. It’s actually a quirky, family-run farm park that has survived the ups and downs of the UK tourism industry for years. It’s officially known as Sharnfold Farm, but many locals and long-time visitors still associate the "Space" branding with the specific vibe of the area or older iterations of the site.
It’s a weirdly charming mix.
You’ve got your standard farm animals—pigs, goats, sheep—but there’s a distinct feeling here that sets it away from those massive, corporate-owned theme parks. It feels like Sussex. Real Sussex. It’s a bit rough around the edges in the best way possible.
What is Space Farm Zoo Sussex Actually Like?
Let's get the "Space" bit out of the way. While the name pulls you in, you aren't going to find a moon landing exhibit. Instead, you'll find a massive farm shop, a nature trail that feels surprisingly wild, and a play area that keeps kids busy for hours while the adults try to grab a coffee.
The site is technically Sharnfold Farm, located in Stone Cross, Pevensey. It's nestled right on the edge of the Pevensey Levels. This is a crucial detail because the geography here is unique. The Levels are a natural marshland, which means the birdlife you see at the farm isn't just "farm stuff"—you’re seeing genuine wetland ecology.
🔗 Read more: Why the Map of Colorado USA Is Way More Complicated Than a Simple Rectangle
Most people come for the Pick Your Own (PYO). Depending on when you show up, you’re either hunting for strawberries or wrestling with massive pumpkins. The pumpkin patch in October is basically a local pilgrimage. It gets busy. Like, "don't even try to park after 11 AM" busy.
The Animals and the "Zoo" Element
Is it a zoo in the way London Zoo is a zoo? No. Don't go expecting giraffes or lions. This is a farm zoo. The focus is on domestic and farm-adjacent species. You'll meet:
- Berkshire pigs (usually covered in mud and looking very happy about it).
- Red Ruby cattle.
- Various breeds of sheep that are remarkably good at begging for feed.
- Donkeys and ponies.
- Chickens, ducks, and geese that roam with a certain level of entitlement.
The "zoo" aspect comes from the educational side. They do a lot of work showing kids where food actually comes from. It's not just a petting zoo; it's a working farm environment. This is something that often gets lost in modern "experience" parks. At Space Farm Zoo Sussex / Sharnfold, you can see the cycle of the seasons.
Why Locals Keep Coming Back
It’s the lack of pretension.
💡 You might also like: Bryce Canyon National Park: What People Actually Get Wrong About the Hoodoos
In a world where every family outing costs £100 before you've even bought a sandwich, this place remains relatively grounded. You can spend a whole afternoon on the farm trail. It’s about two miles long. It takes you past the lake—which is great for a bit of quiet if you can slip away from the kids—and through the woods.
The Farm Shop Factor
Honestly, the farm shop is probably the biggest draw for the non-parents. It’s won awards. The butchery counter is legit. They source meat from their own livestock and other local Sussex farms. If you’re looking for Sussex Sparking wine or local cheeses like Brighton Blue, they have them. It’s a bit of a foodie hub disguised as a farm attraction.
They also have a cafe. It’s simple. Toasties, cakes, tea. It isn't fine dining, but after walking a mile in the Sussex wind, a jacket potato there feels like a five-star meal.
Navigating the Seasonal Shifts
If you visit in the winter, wear wellies. Seriously. The Pevensey Levels are effectively a sponge. If it’s been raining, the farm trail turns into a swamp. It’s fun for kids who like splashing, but it’ll ruin your white trainers in approximately four seconds.
📖 Related: Getting to Burning Man: What You Actually Need to Know About the Journey
Summer is different. The fields are golden, the PYO is in full swing, and they often host events like "Maize Mazes." These mazes are actually quite difficult. I’ve seen grown adults look genuinely stressed trying to find their way out of a cornfield while their five-year-olds lead the way.
The Evolution of the Site
The site has changed hands and names over the years. This is where the confusion with "Space Farm" often stems from. Different managements have emphasized different aspects of the park. Currently, the focus is heavily on the "Farm Adventure" and "Farm to Fork" philosophy. This transition has been necessary to keep the place viable. Small farms in Sussex are under a lot of pressure, and turning into a "Zoo" and "Attraction" is often the only way to save the land from being turned into another housing estate.
Is it Worth the Trip?
If you want high-octane thrills, go to Thorpe Park. If you want a perfectly manicured botanical garden, go to Sheffield Park. But if you want a day that feels like a "proper" Sussex outing, this is it. It’s about teaching kids that carrots grow in dirt and that pigs are actually quite loud.
It’s also surprisingly therapeutic for adults. There’s something about the flat horizon of the Levels and the sound of distant sheep that just lowers your heart rate.
Practical Advice for Your Visit
- Check the PYO Schedule: Don't just show up expecting raspberries in September. Check their social media or website first. Nature doesn't follow a corporate calendar.
- Timing is Everything: If you want peace, go on a Tuesday morning. If you go on a sunny Saturday, expect a crowd.
- The Farm Trail: It’s longer than you think. Bring water. There aren't "pit stops" once you're deep in the trail.
- Support the Shop: The farm shop is the lifeblood of these local spots. Even if you don't do the zoo part, buy some local eggs or bacon on the way out.
Actionable Steps for a Sussex Day Out
To get the most out of Space Farm Zoo Sussex (Sharnfold Farm), you should plan your arrival for around 9:30 AM to beat the mid-morning rush. Start with the farm trail while the air is still fresh and the animals are most active. This is the best time for photos near the lake before the sun gets too high and creates harsh shadows over the marshland.
After the trail, head to the farm shop to pick up some local Sussex produce before it sells out—the best cuts of meat and fresh breads are usually gone by the afternoon. If you're visiting with children, dedicate at least two hours to the play area and the animal feeding stations. Always keep a pair of sturdy boots or wellies in the boot of your car; the Sussex clay is notoriously unforgiving regardless of the forecast. Finally, make sure to check their seasonal events page at least a week in advance, as activities like the Halloween trails or Christmas events often require pre-booked tickets due to capacity limits on the farm.