Johnsons of Old Hurst

Johnsons of Old Hurst: farm, zoo and dining in Cambridgeshire

Johnsons of Old Hurst is a working farm and zoo with tropical gardens located on Church Street, Old Hurst, in Huntingdon (Cambridgeshire). The site brings together several activities in one place: farm, zoo, butcher's shop, farm shop, tea room, steakhouse and museum. The business presents itself as a place for a family day out, open six days a week.

The farm and its production model

The business states that it has been farming using traditional methods for over a century. Its stated aim is to offer local produce with the highest quality in flavour, variety and freshness, and to do so sustainably. Johnsons of Old Hurst describes itself as one of the few farm shops offering a wide variety of home-produced meats, an offering that, it says, grows year on year.

The business invites customers to learn how it rears its animals through access to the farm and the zoo, which includes crocodiles, so they can see for themselves what sets the establishment apart.

The zoo and school visits

The zoo has an animal gallery, a tropical house and animal experiences. The offering includes school visits, conservation programmes, birthdays and an annual pass. General admission tickets can be purchased at the zoo gate, with payment by cash or card, and do not require pre-booking. The site notes that it has never had to turn customers away due to capacity and recommends wearing wellies in the winter months.

Farm shop, butcher's shop and tea room

The farm shop and butcher's shop is open Tuesday to Friday from 9:00 to 18:00, Saturdays from 9:00 to 16:00 and Sundays from 10:00 to 16:00. The tea room is open Tuesday to Saturday from 9:00 to 16:30 and Sundays from 10:00 to 16:00. The zoo and tropical house are open Tuesday to Saturday from 10:00 to 17:30 and Sundays from 10:00 to 16:30.

Steakhouse and events

The steakhouse is open Wednesday to Saturday from 12:00 to 20:30, with the bar open all day, and Sundays from 12:00 to 16:00. The business organises events throughout the year: a barn dance on 23 October, which is listed as sold out with a waiting list by phone; Halloween activities from 28 to 31 October; and a Christmas market on 28 and 29 November. The site offers a newsletter to receive news and promotions.

Other services on site

The complex also includes a museum, gift cards, suppliers and the Johnson's Spirit Company brand. The business warns that the entire site is covered by CCTV cameras, so visitors are filmed during their visit.

Location and contact

Church Farm, Church Street, Old Hurst, Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire, PE28 3AF · Phone: 01487 824658 · Email: sales@johnsonsofoldhurst.co.uk