Charnwood Forest Alpacas

Description

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to go for a stroll with an alpaca amongst the rolling green landscapes of the United Kingdom, Charnwood Forest Alpacas should be near the top of your itinerary. Tucked away in the south Derbyshire district close to the lively market town of Ashby, this is more than your average British farm—it’s honestly a bit of a sanctuary. I vividly remember my first visit: the laughter of families, the soft hum of country air, and the gentle, curious faces of the alpacas. There’s a sort of calm in their presence you just don’t find in your daily life. Anyone looking to trade pavement for pasture, or simply experience something uniquely heartwarming, will find it right here.

Charnwood Forest Alpacas offers a blend of animal encounters and countryside relaxation that makes the farm an irresistible draw. You’ll get the chance to meet and walk with the herd, learn about different alpaca personalities (yes, they have them in spades), and soak up some proper English rural character. The farm has built a reputation for welcoming visitors of all backgrounds—families, animal lovers, romantics, and those in search of a memorable gift experience (alpaca walks are a big hit for birthdays, if you ask me).

With on-site services, a friendly café, and even a farm shop loaded with local produce, it’s genuinely easy to while away a half-day or more here. There’s on-site parking and dog-friendly areas, making it a cinch to bring along your four-legged pals. Accessibility is clearly more than an afterthought too; folks with wheelchairs or mobility needs are catered to, so nobody has to miss out on the fun. And, perhaps most importantly, you can tell the animals are looked after with affection and high standards, something that can’t be said for every attraction.

Of course, like any real working farm, it isn’t perfect. Not every review will be glowing. You might find an odd hiccup with food service on a busy weekend, or a muddy day spoiling those white sneakers. But here’s the thing: it feels authentic and real, and the highs definitely outweigh the lows. That’s countryside life for you—sometimes a little messy, but massively rewarding if you’re open to it.

Key Features

• Guided alpaca walks through scenic fields and woodland edges—the main event, and rightfully so.
• On-site café offering hot drinks, cakes, and light bites; it’s an ideal spot for a pick-me-up after your walk (I’m a sucker for their homemade traybakes).
• Farm shop stocked with local produce and alpaca wool products – perfect for those quirky gifts or souvenirs.
• Fully wheelchair accessible entrance, parking area, and key facilities. Mobility issues won’t stop you here.
• LGBTQ+ friendly atmosphere and staff—everyone feels welcome, and not just as a slogan.
• Dog-friendly, including indoor spaces on most days—so the whole squad (fur and all) can join.
• On-site parking, plenty of space, and easy to find even if your sense of direction isn’t the best.
• Regular events and activities, including private parties, educational sessions, and special themed days (watch for Christmas and summer spectaculars).
• Stunning countryside views, with walking routes that skirt the edge of the National Forest for a real taste of the region.
• Knowledgeable, approachable staff who truly want to make your experience memorable—ask any random question about alpacas, and you’ll get a friendly, detailed answer.

The sense of community and warmth you get here actually reminds me of the local country fairs I used to visit as a kid. It’s not commercialized or soulless—it’s more like a big, collective backyard where you’re always invited. Bit rare, that.

Best Time to Visit

Honestly, there isn’t a single “wrong” time to experience Charnwood Forest Alpacas, but a few months stand out. Late spring to early autumn (think May through September) hits the sweet spot, weather-wise. The countryside bursts into life, the meadows are lush, and those unpredictable British showers are a bit less, well, unpredictable. Alpaca walks during this stretch are a treat—sunshine makes everything brighter, and both the animals and people are extra lively. I’ve visited in June when the world is in full bloom, and again in October for the crisp air and fewer crowds—both visits were brilliant in their own way.

That said, winter can be charming in a completely different way. Fewer people mean more one-on-one time with the animals, and you get to see the farm’s softer, quieter side. The farm’s café offers hot chocolate that makes the cold a lot more bearable. Some experiences may be weather-dependent, so check ahead if you plan to drop by during the rainier months. And don’t rule out the off-season entirely—there are special holiday events and themed walks that bring the farm to life year-round.

My humble advice: check the forecast a couple of days before your visit, pack some water-resistant shoes just in case, and be ready for a bit of mud. It’s good, honest fun, rain or shine!

How to Get There

Finding Charnwood Forest Alpacas is half the adventure. If you’re coming from the south Derbyshire district or anywhere in the Midlands, you’re in luck—it’s incredibly accessible by car. The farm is well signposted along main routes, and sat nav will take you just about to the main gate. There’s proper on-site parking, so none of that “space-tetris” you might expect at busier UK attractions.

If you’re coming by train, Ashby and Swadlincote both serve as useful landmarks. Both are a reasonable taxi ride away from the farm. Bus options exist, though they can be a bit sporadic (typical rural public transport life). If you’re planning a visit without your own wheels, it’s worth arranging a taxi in advance. Cyclists can also use well-maintained country lanes, and personally, I’ve always loved an excuse for a bit of a pedal through the National Forest on a bright day.

Don’t be put off if you’re not from the immediate area. The farm’s location close to major Midlands roads means it’s an easy day out from Derby, Leicester, Nottingham, or even Birmingham—especially with kids or grandparents in tow. Just factor in a little extra travel time on bank holiday weekends or event days, when local roads can get a tad busier.

Tips for Visiting

• Book ahead: Alpaca walks are the main attraction and they fill up quickly, especially during weekends and holidays. Nothing worse than arriving to find every slot full.
• Dress the part: You’ll be walking fields and woodland tracks, so sturdy shoes or boots and a weather-proof jacket are a must. British weather does love a surprise!
• Bring the dog: Unlike most animal attractions, leashed dogs are allowed both outdoors and in the café—just check any restrictions on event days.
• Chat with a handler: The staff know the alpacas as individuals and are always happy to share fun tidbits—like which alpaca is the group’s diva, or stories from the herd’s arrival in the area. It’s small interactions like this that make the day stick in your memory.
• Don’t skip the farm shop: You’ll find unique gifts from locally spun alpaca wool, delicious regional produce, and even items for fellow animal lovers back home. Our house now has an alpaca fridge magnet that’s oddly become a talking point.
• Allow time for food: Weekends can get busy and the café may have small delays. Consider an early or late lunch if you’re not a fan of waiting with hungry kids (or impatient grownups).
• Accessibility matters: If you or someone in your group has specific access needs, give the staff a quick call—they’re genuinely helpful and know which areas are smooth going for wheelchairs or buggies.
• Capture the moment: Bring your camera or phone—alpacas are expressive and photogenic, and the English countryside backdrop can be jaw-dropping at sunset.
• Stay curious: Ask questions, learn about the farm’s eco-friendly efforts, or discover the role alpacas play in sustainable local agriculture. There’s always more to the story if you’re looking for it!
• Keep an open mind: Every farm visit is unique and sometimes unpredictable—maybe you’ll see a baby alpaca’s first steps, or your group will bond instantly with the shy guy at the back of the herd. Just go with it.

The experience at Charnwood Forest Alpacas really is more than just walking an animal—it’s a pause for breath in a busy world, a way to make real memories, and a bit of countryside magic you’ll want to tell your friends about. There aren’t that many places where you can say, “Today, I met a woolly therapist on four legs.” Give it a go—you never know what way the day (or the alpacas) might wander.