Project of the week

As the most westerly farm in Wales, Lower Treginnis offers magnificent panoramic horizon views of the land and ocean. Although a farmstead was first established on this picturesque site in 1284, the group of buildings that exist here today date back to the early 19th century. By the 20th century, most of the buildings on the farmstead were unused and almost all of them were dangerously dilapidated.

It was Farms for City Children who stepped in to turn the fortunes of this historic site around. Founded by children’s author Michael Morpurgo and his wife Clare in 1976, the charity offers five-day immersive farm residentials for children and young people between the ages of 8-19, particularly from underserved communities across England and Wales.

In 1986, following the success of its first farm in Nethercott House in Devon, Farms for City Children set out on a project to restore Lower Treginnis and its buildings for use as its second farm.

Today, Lower Treginnis is one of three farms now owned and run by Farms for City Children. As the most accessible one for those with disabilities, it can host up to 39 children and six adults. Whilst staying at Lower Treginnis, children and young people experience everything from coastal walks and beach visits to farm tasks, cooking and craft sessions.

“Treginnis Farm is, without doubt, the most powerful residential experience our children could ever have. It goes far beyond a week away. It immerses them in real work — caring for animals, growing food, cooking meals and understanding the rhythms of nature. No other residential has the same depth, impact, or authenticity.”

Rhian Milton, Headteacher at St Woolos Primary school