Get ready for a hay-cation as Cogges Manor Farm is summer-ready! Witney’s heritage farm is open every day, and a wonderful place for all the family to relax and enjoy the outdoors at this beautiful time of year.
There really is something for everyone – explore the manor house and gardens, the home of Downton Abbey’s Yew Tree Farm. Meet the animals, look out for children's craft activities and go wild with adventure play and 17 acres of meadows; or just kick back in the sunshine, play croquet on the lawn, and picnic in the orchard with a latte! See lambs and sheep, Shetland ponies, goats, turkeys and free roaming hens and ducks – ‘Meet the animals’ sessions run at weekends and Bank Holidays 11am and 2pm.
General Manager, Guy Reed, said: “Cogges is such a special place to me and to so many; it’s a small gem that harks back to bygone days and simple pleasures, being with friends and family, within a wonderful natural setting. There will be lot’s going on over the summer, with outdoor activities and a new nature walk in the meadow where children can follow a trail of wild animals. We’re creating paths and making the meadow much more accessible, introducing new habitats for wild birds and insects, and looking to increase the diversity of the flora and fauna. We’re also aiming to reintroduce some livestock – it’s a big project but one we hope will benefit everyone. As a visitor said to me recently, “who knew that this fantastic, idyllic green space existed in Witney and on our doorstep?” I personally feel it’s just a wonderful place to spend time, and the team and I are delighted that so many visitors agree with us. Visit, share your experience of Cogges with friends and family and help us protect this amazing space for generations to come.”
Look out for Cogges’ new artist-in-residence, Alex James Long, who may be out and about with his easel capturing the beautiful gardens at Cogges; or you might see baking on the range in the kitchen. Pop into the shop for gifts, farm eggs and produce and stop off at Cogges Kitchen café for lunch, a cream tea or a glass of bubbly! (Open to all, no ticket required).
As Cogges is steeped in 1000 years of stories, it is the perfect location to experience living history. ’The Marquess of Winchester Regiment’ has been re-enacting battles from the English Civil War for about 40 years and they will be at Cogges on 30 June and 4 August from 11am until 3pm. Considered one of the premier formations in English Civil War re-enactment with Pikemen, Musketeers, Officers, sergeants and drummers, this promises to be a memorable day and something different for Witney! For further information visit cogges.org.uk/Event/marquess-winchesters-regiment.
Enjoy an evening of Shakespeare on the Manor Lawn and book now for Romeo & Juliet from Truth Told Theatre (July 17-19). Hailed as The Bard’s greatest tragedy, this tale of ‘star-crossed lovers’ from two feuding families still resonates today. Covering the themes of love, hate, grief, remorse and more, audiences are promised an action-packed show. Truth Told Theatre is a new venture for Louise Taney, who has directed and acted in many productions locally, having trained at The Oxford School of Drama. Her passion for Shakespeare is the driving force for her theatre company where she has a mission for everyone to enjoy his plays! You will find further information in our article ‘Truth Told Theatre brings Summer Shakespeare to Cogges’ in this magazine, however, book your tickets via cogges.org.uk/Event/truth-told-theatre-presents.
Cogges' legendary Beer and Cider Festival is back on 10 August, 12pm to 10pm. Join in the celebrations in the Barns with a huge choice of different craft beers and ciders, accompanied by live music to get the crowd dancing, a BBQ and Summer Bar (cogges.org.uk/Event/cogges-beer-cider-festival).
The summer fun continues into September. Cogges is the new Venice, as award-winning outdoor theatre company Illyria is set to return on 5th September with an exciting production of Gilbert and Sullivan’s The Gondoliers. The performance starts at 6.30pm with a 2 hour 20 minute running time, including a 20 minute interval. Please bring a low-back chair or blanket to site on and dress for the weather. Bar, snacks and ice-cream are available. The production is suitable for all ages. To book your ticket visit cogges.org.uk/Event/the-gondoliers.
What better way to celebrate the produce of summer than being part of the Cogges Harvest Fayre on Saturday 7 September, from 11am until 4pm. Enter your home-grown super-sized or (much-anticipated) novelty veg, fabulous floral displays and hand-crafted creations; Dazzle with your tasty home-bakes, jams and chutneys in the Home Economics category! There’s also a chance for children to join in. Family fun, games, face-painting, flower-crowns, crafts and activities. Enjoy delicious food at the BBQ and refresh your palate at the Harvest Bar.
Standard Farm admission and opening times. Free to Season/12 month pass holders. Selected activities may have additional costs (e.g. tokens for games). Book online at cogges.org.uk/Event/cogges-harvest or pay on entry.
Cogges Heritage Trust is a charity and thank you for your support. To follow what’s on please visit cogges.org.uk.
