Closing Our Gates — A Message from the Ball Family
Blog post description.
3/12/20261 min read
It is with great sadness that we announce Rutland Farm Park will be permanently closing on Sunday 12th April at 5:00pm.
After much deliberation, the time has come for Julie and Clive to retire, and we feel the moment calls for honesty: this is not a decision we have taken lightly. The farm has been at the heart of our family for generations, and reopening its gates nearly ten years ago was one of the proudest chapters of our lives.
Over the past decade, we have watched thousands of children meet their first animals, families return year after year, and a truly special community grow up around this place. We have laughed together, weathered two lockdowns side by side, and shared so many moments we will carry with us always. None of that would have been possible without you.
To our wonderful staff and volunteers — your dedication has meant everything. To the students who have learned and grown here, the visitors who made every single day worthwhile, and the local community who embraced us so warmly: thank you, from the bottom of our hearts.
Until 12th April, we very much look forward to welcoming you to the farm one last time. Come and say hello to the animals, walk the familiar paths, and help us celebrate everything this special place has been.
With love and gratitude, The Ball Family
