11 Acre Farm

Just a quick 30-minute drive from Perth, 11 Acre Farm in Forrestdale is one of those magical spots you’ll be so glad you discovered. It’s a wonderful mix of a working farm, a fantastic café, and a nature-based play space that’s designed with families at its core. The whole place has a relaxed, welcoming vibe, focused on connecting kids (and us parents!) with nature, animals, and where our food comes from. You can wander through the paddock-to-plate gardens, say hello to the friendly farm animals, and then relax with a coffee while the little ones explore. It’s more than just an animal farm; it's a whole experience built around sustainable, regenerative farming, which is a lovely lesson for the kids to absorb while they’re having fun.

Age Appropriateness

This is one of the farm's biggest strengths – it genuinely caters to a wide range of ages. Toddlers and preschoolers will be absolutely delighted by the animal encounters and the freedom to play in the open spaces. The "Cubby Cafe," a charming mini-town, is specifically designed to spark their imagination and creativity. For primary school-aged kids, the experience can be more educational. They can engage with the farm tours, learn about organic gardening and sustainability, and get involved in hands-on activities like feeding the animals. Even older kids and teens who appreciate nature and good food will enjoy the beautiful setting and the delicious, seasonal meals at the café. The farm also hosts various workshops, like sourdough baking or pasta making, which could be a great activity for a parent-child date.

The Highlights (Pros)

• More Than Just Animals: While meeting the goats and chickens is a huge draw, what sets this place apart is the combination of attractions. You have the animal farm, the gorgeous café (The Good Paddock & Cubby Cafe), and the imaginative mini-town play area all in one spot. It makes for a very complete and easy day out.
• Focus on Sustainability: Over 90% of the materials used for the buildings and play areas are upcycled, and they practice regenerative farming. It feels good to support a place with such a strong, positive ethos, and it’s a great conversation starter with the kids.
• Excellent Facilities: The farm is well-equipped for families. It’s wheelchair accessible, has clean restroom facilities, and offers plenty of space to relax. The café serves wholesome, seasonal food, so you don’t have to worry about packing a full picnic unless you want to.
• Imaginative Play: The "Cubby Cafe" mini-town is a fantastic, creative space for little ones. It encourages imaginative play beyond a standard playground and is a real highlight for younger children.

The Watch-Outs (Cons)

• Entry Fees Add Up: While not overly expensive, there is an entry fee for the animal experience ($5 for a single entry, $20 for a family of 5, and kids under 2 are free), plus extra for animal feed. When you add on coffee and food from the cafe, it can become a pricier outing than a trip to a local park.
• It’s a Real Farm: This is a pro, but also something to be aware of! Expect a bit of dirt and mud, especially after rain. It’s a genuine "paddock-to-plate" experience, which means boots can get muddy and little hands will definitely need a good wash.
• Popularity: Being such a lovely spot, it can get quite busy, particularly on weekends. If you’re hoping for a quieter experience, aiming for a weekday visit might be a good idea.

Practical Survival Tips for Parents

• Wear the Right Shoes: This is non-negotiable. It’s a working farm with uneven terrain. Gumboots or sturdy, closed-toe shoes are a must for the whole family to keep feet clean and safe.
• Check Opening Hours: The farm, animal enclosures, and café have slightly different operating hours and are generally open from Wednesday to Sunday. Always double-check their website or social media before you head out.
• Bring the Essentials: Pack sunscreen, hats, and a refillable water bottle, as you’ll be spending a lot of time outdoors. Wipes are also your best friend for cleaning up before and after snacks.
• Manage Expectations: Have a chat with the kids beforehand about the farm rules, like being gentle with the animals. A little prep can help make the interactions smooth and positive for everyone.
• Embrace the Pace: The beauty of 11 Acre Farm is its relaxed atmosphere. Don’t try to rush it. Allow plenty of time to wander, let the kids lead the way in the mini-town, and take a moment to just sit back and soak in the peaceful farm charm.