North Cotswolds: Farm Experiences at The Vodka Farm

Key Points

• Unique farm experience in the North Cotswolds exploring the origins of BLACKLION vodka
• Meet the farm’s friendly sheep and watch the milking process in the dairy parlour
• Enjoy a tasting of award-winning BLACKLION vodka plus a signature cocktail prepared by a resident mixologist
• Mini farm tour for children includes encounters with other animals and a mocktail or milkshake
• Tour duration of 1.5 hours with flexible Saturday to Monday scheduling
• Suitable for private groups, accessible for wheelchairs, with clear directions to The Shepherd’s Hut Cafe

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Discovering the BLACKLION Farm in the North Cotswolds

The BLACKLION Vodka farm experience offers an engaging 1.5-hour private tour that takes visitors behind the scenes of a working farm in the heart of the North Cotswolds. Starting at The Shepherd’s Hut Cafe, the tour provides a closer look at how the farm’s Blacklion sheep contribute to the production of their award-winning vodka. The tour emphasizes local craftsmanship, farm life, and the artistry of spirit-making.

This experience is perfect for those looking for a blend of farm life and distillery secrets, all within a peaceful countryside setting. The tour is scheduled for Saturday, Sunday, and Monday at 11:00 am or 2:30 pm, making it flexible to fit into a variety of travel plans. It’s especially suitable for private groups, wheelchair users, and those wanting a manageable 90-minute activity.

Meeting Point at The Shepherd’s Hut Cafe

Participants gather at The Shepherd’s Hut Cafe, located in the main car park at the coordinates 52.0152931, -1.7546726. The meeting location is easy to find, and ample parking is available. The cafe provides a cozy starting point, where guides brief visitors before the farm tour begins.

Travelers should arrive prepared with comfortable shoes for walking on farm pathways and weather-appropriate clothing, as the tour includes outdoor elements and close-up farm encounters. The meeting point is a convenient spot for those arriving by car, and the group size remains private, ensuring a personalized experience.

Exploring the Sheep and the Dairy Parlour

A core part of the tour involves meeting the farm’s sheep and observing the milking process in the dairy parlour. The Blacklion sheep are known for their friendly nature, and visitors get a close-up view of the flock as they participate in active demonstrations.

The milking of the ewes offers a rare glimpse into a typical farm operation, illustrating how the milk is collected and used. This process highlights the farm’s sustainable approach, since the whey from the sheep’s milk is critical in creating the farm’s award-winning BLACKLION vodka. Observing this daily routine adds an authentic touch that enriches the overall experience.

How BLACKLION Vodka Is Made

The tour’s highlight is learning about the vodka-making process. Guides share insights into the history of the farm and explain how the whey from sheep’s milk is transformed into a smooth and flavorful spirit. The distillation process and unique recipes are part of the secrets revealed during the tour, making it an educational experience for spirits enthusiasts.

Visitors gain a better understanding of the craftsmanship behind BLACKLION vodka, appreciating its creamy texture and distinctive taste. The farm emphasizes local ingredients and traditional methods, which contribute to the spirit’s award-winning status.

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Vodka and Cocktail Tastings with a Resident Mixologist

The tasting session is a key moment in the tour, where guests sample BLACKLION vodka in its pure form. The vodka is celebrated for its smoothness and unique flavor profile.

Plus, resident mixologist Pete Simpson uses the vodka to prepare a signature cocktail. He demonstrates how to make it, sharing tips and secrets behind the recipe. For guests not drinking or driving, non-alcoholic options are also available. This hands-on cocktail experience adds a fun and interactive element to the visit.

Farm Animals and Mini Tours for Children

Children get their own mini farm tour, which includes meeting other farm animals beyond the sheep. Kids can interact with friendly farm animals and enjoy a mocktail or milkshake provided by the farm.

This part of the experience is designed to be entertaining and educational for younger visitors, making it an appealing family activity. The farm’s environment is described as peaceful and well-maintained, ensuring a safe and pleasant atmosphere for all ages.

Accessibility and Flexibility of the Tour

The tour is wheelchair accessible, ensuring that visitors with mobility needs can enjoy the experience comfortably. The private group setting allows for a more personalized visit, with guides sharing interesting insights tailored to the group.

Booking is flexible, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Travelers can reserve now and pay later, making it easy to adjust plans as needed. The tour’s duration of 90 minutes strikes a good balance between engagement and relaxation, without feeling rushed.

Practical Tips for Visitors

Participants are advised to bring comfortable shoes and dress according to the weather. The tour is held outdoors and in farm buildings, so layers and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended.

While samples of vodka are provided for tasting, those not drinking or driving need not worry, as non-alcoholic drinks and mocktails are also available. The experience is best suited for adults and children over 5 years old, with the exception of very young children.

What Makes This Experience Stand Out

This farm visit uniquely combines sheep farming, dairy processing, and spirit production into one engaging tour. The opportunity to see the milking process and learn about vodka creation from farm to glass** sets it apart from typical farm or distillery visits.

The personalized guidance by knowledgeable staff and interactive tasting make it a memorable outing. The peaceful North Cotswolds setting adds to the charm, making it a relaxing yet educational experience suitable for families, couples, and private groups.

Who Will Most Appreciate This Tour

This experience is ideal for those interested in local food and drink, especially vodka lovers curious about production methods. Visitors seeking a family-friendly activity that combines animal encounters and farm life will also find it appealing.

The tour’s private group format and accessible design make it suitable for small parties, families with children over 5, and guests with mobility considerations. It’s a great way to combine rural charm with a taste of craftsmanship in the Cotswolds.

Final Thoughts on the BLACKLION Farm Experience

The North Cotswolds farm tour at The Vodka Farm offers a distinctive look at how farm life and vodka craftsmanship come together. Visitors enjoy the chance to meet the sheep, witness milking, and sample a variety of spirits and cocktails in just 90 minutes.

While the experience is focused and well-organized, it also delivers authentic insights into sustainable farm practices and artisanal distilling. The friendly guides and hands-on tastings make it a memorable activity for adults and children over 5 seeking a relaxed, educational outing in the scenic Cotswolds countryside.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts 1.5 hours (90 minutes), scheduled for Saturday, Sunday, and Monday at 11:00 am or 2:30 pm.

Where does the tour meet?
Guests meet at The Shepherd’s Hut Cafe in the main car park, located at coordinates 52.0152931, -1.7546726.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children over 5 years old can participate in the mini farm tour, with special mocktails or milkshakes included.

Is the experience accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

What should I bring?
Participants should wear comfortable shoes and bring weather-appropriate clothing for outdoor elements.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

Can I reserve now and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot without payment and pay later, offering flexible planning.

Are samples provided during the tour?
Yes, guests receive vodka samples and non-alcoholic drinks depending on preferences.

What makes this farm tour special?
The combination of sheep milking, farm animals, and vodka tasting makes this experience both educational and enjoyable.

Is this tour available all year round?
The tour runs on weekends and Mondays, but specific availability should be checked in advance.

What is the overall rating?
The experience holds a perfect 5 out of 5 stars based on one review, highlighting its charm and uniqueness.

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