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."

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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.