Errichel Farm Tour

The Errichel Farm Tour offers a genuine glimpse into rural life in the Tay Valley, located just outside Aberfeldy, Scotland. Priced at $19.20 per person, this 1-hour small-group experience welcomes up to eight guests, making it an intimate and personal encounter with farm animals and farm practices. The tour departs from Thyme Delicatessen, Errichel, at 10:00 am, suitable for families, especially those with young children, seeking an engaging and educational outdoor activity.

What sets this tour apart is its focus on ethical farming and the farm’s “slow food” ethos. Visitors meet a variety of farm animals—Large Black Pigs, Shetland Sheep, Highland Ponies, Shetland Cattle, ducks, and chickens—and have the opportunity to feed these animals directly. The experience emphasizes small-group interaction and personalized attention, creating a relaxed environment to learn about sustainable farming practices. After the tour, guests can explore the on-site deli to purchase fresh, farm-produced goods.

While the tour is praised for its warm hospitality and knowledgeable guides, it is important to note that it is weather-dependent, and cancellations due to poor weather are fully refundable or can be rescheduled. The service animals are allowed, and most travelers can participate, making it accessible for many visitors.

Key Points

• Affordable, family-friendly farm experience near Aberfeldy for just $19.20.
• One-hour tour focusing on ethical farming, slow food principles, and animal interactions.
• Small-group setting with a maximum of eight guests ensures personalized attention.
• Meet and feed a variety of farm animals, including pigs, sheep, cattle, ponies, ducks, and chickens.
• Guided by passionate hosts, notably Becky, known for her warmth and expertise.
• On-site deli offers fresh farm produce for purchase post-tour.

Meeting Point and Logistics at Errichel Farm

The tour begins at the Thyme Delicatessen, Errichel, located near Aberfeldy. It is designed with convenience and comfort in mind, with most travelers booked 22 days in advance. The tour starts promptly at 10:00 am, and the duration is approximately one hour.

Guests are advised to arrive on time, as the tour concludes back at the meeting point. The small group size ensures a relaxed pace, allowing plenty of opportunities for questions and close-up animal interactions. The tour includes a mobile ticket, streamlining the check-in process.

Engaging Animal Encounters and Farm Activities

The core of the Errichel Farm Tour is the chance to meet and feed a variety of animals. Visitors get to interact with Large Black Pigs, renowned for their conservation status, as well as rare-breed sheep and Shetland cattle. The Highland ponies provide a charming glimpse of Scottish heritage, all in a farm setting that emphasizes ethical treatment and sustainable practices.

Guests find it especially rewarding to feed and touch the animals, fostering a hands-on connection. The guides, particularly Becky, are highlighted for their passion and knowledge, making the experience both educational and heartfelt.

Learning About Ethical Farming and the ‘Slow Food’ Ethos

Throughout the tour, learning about the farm’s “slow food” philosophy is a key highlight. The farm prioritizes ethical animal care and sustainable practices, which visitors appreciate. The guides explain how the farm operates in harmony with nature, focusing on animal welfare and quality over quantity.

This approach offers insight into responsible food production, aligning with the values of visitors interested in local, farm-fresh food. After the tour, guests can explore the deli to purchase fresh farm produce, including meats and other local specialties.

The Farm’s Friendly Hosts and Atmosphere

Becky, the co-owner, earns high praise for her warmth and storytelling ability. She creates a relaxed, welcoming environment where children and adults alike feel comfortable asking questions and engaging with the animals. The personalized attention provided by the hosts makes the small-group setting particularly enjoyable.

Guests frequently comment on the hospitality and passion of everyone at Errichel, which enhances the overall experience. Visitors often leave feeling more connected to farm life and, for many, inspired to support ethical and sustainable agriculture.

Post-Tour Offerings and Local Produce

After the animal encounters, guests are encouraged to visit the on-site deli. Here, they can purchase fresh farm produce, including meats and other delicacies crafted on the farm. This feature adds a tangible takeaway, allowing visitors to continue their farm experience at home with high-quality, locally produced items.

The deli serves as a perfect extension of the farm’s ethos, emphasizing local sourcing and quality. It’s a popular stop for those wanting to support small farms and enjoy authentic Scottish flavors.

Accessibility and Weather Considerations

The Errichel Farm Tour is designed to accommodate most travelers, with service animals allowed. However, since the experience is primarily outdoors, good weather is essential for the best experience. Bookings can be canceled up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund if weather conditions require.

Travelers should dress appropriately for outdoor conditions and be prepared for potential rain, which, as noted in reviews, does not diminish the enjoyment of the experience.

Comparing Errichel Farm Tour to Other Local Activities

While the Errichel Farm Tour offers a unique look into Scottish farm life, it complements other outdoor activities in the Aberfeldy area, such as distillery tours or river-based adventures. It stands out for its focus on ethical farming and family-friendly atmosphere.

The tour’s small-group format and personalized guidance make it stand apart from larger, more commercial farm visits. It is especially well-suited for families with young children and those interested in sustainable food and animal welfare.

Who Will Most Enjoy This Tour?

This tour is ideal for families with children, animal lovers, and anyone interested in learning about responsible farming practices. Its informative guides and hands-on approach create a memorable and meaningful experience.

While it’s accessible for most, those prepared for outdoor weather conditions will get the most out of this authentic farm visit. Its affordable price point and intimate setting make it a valuable addition to a Scottish Highlands itinerary.

Errichel Farm Tour: An Authentic Taste of Rural Scotland

The Errichel Farm Tour offers a genuine, friendly look at Scottish farm life with an emphasis on animal welfare and local food. The passionate guides, especially Becky, create an engaging and educational environment that appeals to families and adults alike.

Its small-group size, combined with the chance to meet and feed farm animals, makes it a personalized experience that many will find rewarding. The opportunity to buy farm-fresh produce afterward enhances the value, supporting local sustainable farming.

While weather can influence the experience, its full refund policy and outdoor focus are transparent and straightforward. This tour offers a warm, informative, and delightful introduction to rural life in the Tay Valley.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the Errichel Farm Tour?
The tour costs $19.20 per person.

How long does the farm tour last?
The experience takes approximately 1 hour.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Thyme Delicatessen, Errichel, Aberfeldy.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, it is especially ideal for families with young children.

What animals can I meet on the tour?
Visitors meet Large Black Pigs, Shetland Sheep, Highland Ponies, Shetland Cattle, ducks, and chickens.

Can I feed the animals?
Yes, feeding the animals is included in the experience.

What should I wear or bring?
Dress appropriately for outdoor conditions, as the tour is primarily outside. Good weather is helpful, but rain does not stop the tour.

Is there an opportunity to buy farm products?
Yes, the on-site deli offers fresh farm produce for purchase after the tour.

Is the tour refundable?
Yes, cancellations made 24 hours in advance are fully refundable.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted on the tour.