Long-term sponsor AHDB celebrates 20 years of LEAF Open Farm Sunday

Long-term sponsor AHDB celebrates 20 years of LEAF Open Farm Sunday

LEAF (Linking Environment and Food) Open Farm Sunday on 7 June 2026 marks two decades as the UK’s leading on-farm event.

Long-term sponsor AHDB (Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board) is encouraging farmers to play their part in connecting consumers with how their food is produced, showcasing farming with nature and inspiring people to make more informed, environmentally conscious food choices.

Since 2006, Open Farm Sunday has served as a reminder of the positive benefits of engaging with visitors. Last year saw a 20 per cent increase in the number of host farms, which welcomed over 200,000 people. As a result:

This year, AHDB has supported 10 new host farmers to undertake a bespoke CEVAS (Countryside Education Visits Accreditation Scheme) training course delivered by LEAF to help them prepare to welcome visitors to their farms. Elsa Healey, AHDB Senior Education Manager, said:

“Open Farm Sunday is more than an annual day out – it’s a chance to bring communities closer to farming. By supporting new host farmers, we’re helping them to feel confident opening their farm gates and having real conversations about how food is produced and where it comes from.”

Celia Smith, of Norton Court Farm in the Severn Valley, Gloucestershire, was one of those who undertook the AHDB-funded training. Celia said:

“It was inspiring for me to meet other farmers and hear their stories, and the practical training was invaluable. It provided a solid framework for our plans: the nuts and bolts of designing the schedule for the day, as well as how to promote it. I’m intending to develop our existing relationships with local primary schools, offering farm visits throughout the year – again, the training I received is invaluable. I recommend it!”

A mixed dairy, beef and arable farm, Norton Court’s primary focus is on low-input, regenerative farming that produces nutrient-dense food while supporting the surrounding ecosystem. The farm is offering activities from 6am to 4pm on Sunday 7 June, including:

There will also be tractor and trailer rides to the new community garden. Tea and cake will be on sale, and visitors are welcome to bring a picnic. Entry is free – there is a small charge for some of the activities, with proceeds going to the Curlew Action Charity.