For the second year running, Standalone Farm has been named a finalist for the Sustainability Award at the National Farm Attractions Network (NFAN) Awards.

The recognition highlights the farm's sustained commitment to environmental innovation, educational outreach and community-based green work.

Located just outside Hitchin, the working farm attraction has increasingly blended traditional family-friendly farm activities with a strong eco-agenda.

Among the many initiatives to feature this year are the development of the outdoor water-play area, more animals and enhanced interactive animal-handling opportunities, alongside a packed events programme.  

A clear ambition to become a leading educational hub. In particular, the farm is participating in the Defra-funded "ResilienTogether" project (led by Central Bedfordshire Council) to raise awareness about local flooding risks and water-cycle dynamics through the site's new Riverside Ramble, water-play zone and water-quality monitoring pilot in the nearby Pix Brook.  

The installation of habitat-enhancing infrastructure such as BioScapes® rain-water planters (combining sustainable drainage systems with biodiversity net-gain), and the rebuilt bird-hide accessible from the farm and the Garden City Greenway, offering visitors a direct link to local wildlife and the reservoir.  

A spokesperson for the farm commented:

"We're absolutely thrilled to be recognised as a finalist again. Our whole team works hard to make sure the farm not only offers a great day out, but also protects the local environment and supports our community for the future."

The NFAN Awards ceremony will unveil the winners early next year.

Standalone Farm's continued short-listing speaks to its growing reputation not just as a place for family fun, but as a centre for education, sustainability and nature conservation in the North Herts area.