If you’re fresh out of ideas for an outdoorsy day out that won’t break the bank, then we’ve got just the place. Hogshaw Farm & Wildlife Park is a rare breeds farm on 44 acres of rolling Bucks countryside. It’s pretty much equidistant from Milton Keynes, Bicester and Aylesbury, so it’s super easy to reach and just round the corner from stately beauty, Waddesdon Manor.

The family attraction is all about open air exploration and encounters with animals and nature. The conservation focused operation has all manner of birds and animals from goats to Scottish Wildcats, some of which are endangered or ‘at risk’. The idea is for kids to come away having learnt a bit more about the environment and the animals. But, yes, they can also pet a goat, a guinea pig and even a snake, just not perhaps an owl or the resident skunk.

Alongside the experiences like bottle-feeding lambs in spring or grooming and cleaning out farm animals, there’s private encounters to get some one-to-one time with goats, sheep, cows or pigs, or something a little more exotic – skunk, reptiles or tenrec anyone? (It looks a bit like a hedgehog FYI).

Need to wear ’em out a bit more? The discovery trails, animal paddocks, walled garden, greenhouse and outdoor playground should do it, resplendent with pedal Go-Karts, bouncy pillows, a carousel swing and sand and water play. If it’s bucketing down, take shelter in the Animal Barn, the cosy Creature Corner, or the indoor soft play area.

Other activities for animal lovers include a daily flying display from the farm’s resident birds of prey, animal paddocks to explore, walkthrough goat and chicken enclosures, tractor trails around the farm in the summer, or meeting reindeer – talk about all their Christmases coming at once.

Seasonal events during previous school holidays have included The Wild Cinema in February, Spring on the Farm in the Easter holidays, featuring the lambs and a whole roster of cuties – cue chicks hatching and baby goat kids. Then in May half-term head here for Hogfest, an interactive circus show with a countryside fete vibe, while October half term brings the Hogshaw School of Witchcraft & Wizardry for potion-making lessons using natural plants and encounters with creepy creatures. Keep an eye on Hogshaw’s social for what’s coming up this year to get in early for a ticket.

Oh, and did we mention that the café does a decent coffee too. Alongside homemade cakes and savoury nibbles, it’s a winner – see it as your reward for taking the kids on a stellar day out. While you’re there, pop your head into the Farm Shop, a gorgeous space that’s brimming with nature inspired gifts, toys, books and treats..

And finally – the icing on the cake. Hogshaw is bookable for birthday parties, praise be! With two hours of entertainment and party food taken care of, that’s got our vote.

Hogshaw Farm & Wildlife Park is at Claydon Road, Hogshaw, MK18 3LA. Tel: 01296 670444 or email info@hogshawfarm.co.uk. It’s open Weds to Sun in term time, and daily in school holidays and on Bank Holidays, from 10am to 5.30pm. Day entry for adults and children aged 2-18 is £10.50 to £15.50, and under-2s are free. Annual membership from £75.