In a sector where truly inclusive, multigenerational experiences remain rare, Manor Farm Park & Woodlands stands out as a benchmark for innovation, accessibility, and operational excellence. Recognised as Best Family Day Out 2025 – Nottinghamshire in our Business Elite Awards 2025, this award-winning destination exemplifies how strategic leadership and purpose-driven growth can transform a local attraction into a nationally celebrated experience. Strategic Excellence in Family Leisure Manor Farm Animal Centre and Donkey Sanctuary was started in 1992 by Rita Thurman and Glennis Robinson opening to the public in 1996, and subsequently changing its name to Manor Farm Park & Woodlands. Following Rita’s sudden death in 2015 Antony Robinson, who owned and ran a successfully affiliated Garden Design and Landscaping Company, joined his mother as a hands on partner in the business, becoming an integral part of its continued expansion and development. From giant snakes and ladders and Connect 4 to animal feeding and nature trails, the park’s offerings are curated to spark joy, curiosity, and connection. Whether it’s a rainy afternoon or a sunny weekend, Manor Farm Park & Woodlands ensures that families can make cherished memories together—without compromise. At the heart of its success is a commitment to accessibility and inclusion. The park is proud to be rolling out a PiPAaccredited accessible playground, reinforcing its dedication to universal design and inclusive programming. Every element, from sensoryfriendly activities to mobility-accessible infrastructure, reflects a deep understanding of guest needs and a proactive approach to equity in leisure. This ethos extends across the site, ensuring that guests of all ages and abilities feel welcome, supported, and inspired. The petting zoo remains a cornerstone of the park’s appeal, offering hands-on animal interactions underpinned by rigorous welfare standards and evolving regulatory compliance. As legislation tightens across the UK, Manor Farm Park & Woodlands continues to lead with integrity, streamlining operations while prioritising animal care and guest education. Its team of trained staff and animal specialists ensures that every encounter is safe, enriching, and respectful building empathy and awareness in young visitors and adults alike. “One of our biggest challenges is the perception that we’re a fair-weather destination,” notes COO Jordan St Germain. “But with Nottingham’s largest indoor soft play, we’re a year-round experience.” This expansive indoor facility is a game-changer for families seeking reliable entertainment regardless of the forecast. Combined with the park’s loyalty programme, offering complimentary visits every fifth trip (off-peak), Manor Farm Park & Woodlands has cultivated a strong base of repeat visitors and brand advocates. Strategic investment and community support have played a vital role in the park’s growth. Backed by funding from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPR), Manor Farm Park & Woodlands has been able to expand its infrastructure, enhance its programming, and deepen its impact. From educational workshops to seasonal events, every initiative is carefully designed to foster connection, curiosity, and a sense of community spirit. Looking ahead, the park is expanding its offerings with educational sessions on traditional agrarian agricultural practices, encounters with birds of prey, and new animal exhibits. These initiatives reflect a strategic focus on mindful, immersive experiences that encourage guests to slow down, engage with nature, and rediscover the joy of shared exploration. The upcoming lakeside restoration project and accessible playground development are further testament to the park’s forward-thinking approach and commitment to environmental stewardship. Jordan St Germain shares advice for fellow SME leaders: “The harder you work, the more luck you tend to generate. Success rarely arrives by chance, it’s earned through relentless effort, showing up consistently, and knocking on every door. While luck plays its part, it’s tenacity and perseverance that wins the day more often than not.” This ethos, passed down from his father, continues to shape the park’s resilient, values-driven culture. Under Jordan’s leadership, Manor Farm Park & Woodlands has not only achieved operational excellence but also cultivated a workplace where innovation, empathy, and collaboration thrive. The park’s transformation from a sanctuary to a multi-award-winning destination is a masterclass in strategic vision and stakeholder engagement. Its accolades, including finalist recognition in regional business awards and a place in TripAdvisor’s Top 10% Travellers’ Choice destinations, underscore its reputation as a national exemplar of what family leisure can achieve when guided by purpose and passion. Ultimately, Manor Farm Park & Woodlands is more than a day out, it’s a place where families bond, communities grow, and values come to life. Whether it’s a child’s first encounter with a farm animal, a grandparent enjoying a woodland walk, or a parent watching their child thrive in a sensory-friendly play space, the park delivers experiences that matter. As the team continues to innovate, expand, and celebrate success together, the future of Manor Farm Park & Woodlands looks brighter than ever. With its unwavering commitment to accessibility, sustainability, and guest delight, it remains a shining example of how leisure can be both meaningful and magical. Contact: Jordan Germain, COO Company: Manor Farm Park & Woodlands Website: https://www.manorfarm.info/
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