Affordable February Half-Term Days Out on the Farm

Families across Lancashire are being invited to enjoy a February half-term that combines fun, learning and real impact, with a visit to Horses and Ponies Protection Association (HAPPA), where entry costs just £6 per adult and £1 per child. HAPPA Members and Sponsors enjoy free entry.

Set in the countryside at Shores Hey Farm in Briercliffe, Burnley, HAPPA offers visitors the chance to spend time with rescued horses and ponies, enjoy hands-on experiences, and relax with good food and shopping, all while directly supporting a local charity dedicated to giving vulnerable equines a Second Chance.

Half-Term Activities for Children

Throughout February half-term, children can take part in immersive Own a Pony Days on 19th and 21st February, experiencing what it’s truly like to care for a pony. Guided by HAPPA’s Education Team, the day focuses on grooming, understanding equine behaviour, building confidence and learning responsibility, creating memories that last far beyond the school holidays.

Gentle pony rides and pony grooming experiences, available on multiple dates throughout half-term, also offer calm and joyful introductions to horses for children and teenagers, making them ideal for beginners or those looking to grow in confidence around animals.

For parents looking for a structured, full-day option, HAPPA is also running a February Half-Term Holiday Club on 17th and 20th February, designed for children aged 6-12 years.

Running from 10am to 3pm, the Holiday Club is packed with games, creative activities, indoor and outdoor play, arts and crafts and team-building sessions, all aimed at boosting confidence, wellbeing and having fun in a safe, supportive environment. The club is delivered by experienced, DBS-checked staff, with children encouraged to bring a packed lunch, drink and snacks.

Activities for Adults and Evenings

Adults are also invited to enjoy something a little different this half term, with an Art & Wellbeing Workshop on 19th February, led by respected local artist Val Hughes. Designed to encourage creativity, calm and self-care, the workshop takes place in the peaceful surroundings of the Charity.

The week concludes with a Chinese New Year Evening Banquet at The HAPPA Café on 21st February, offering guests an evening of exceptional food, warm hospitality and festive atmosphere.

Beyond the events, visitors can enjoy:

• The HAPPA Café, serving freshly prepared meals, cakes and hot drinks from 9am – 3pm daily and until 8pm on Fridays and Saturday evenings.
• HAPPA Direct, an on-site shop selling gifts, toys, equestrian and pet accessories.
• Open access to meet some of the horses and ponies currently in the Charity’s care.

Importantly, every visit plays a vital role in supporting HAPPA’s work, helping to fund veterinary treatment, rehabilitation, education and lifelong care for abused, neglected and unwanted horses and ponies.

With family budgets under pressure, HAPPA hopes its low entry price and wide range of experiences will encourage local families to enjoy a half-term that feels both special and worthwhile.

Further details and booking information can be found at happa.org.uk/events.

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