Two County Roscommon farms to open their gates to the public for unique experience
Andrew Chilton hosting an event on his farm for Inside the Gate 2025.
Two County Roscommon farms are set to open their gates to the public as part of Inside the Gate, a nationwide family-friendly open day organised by Farming For Nature.
Taking place on Sunday, August 30th, Inside the Gate gives visitors a unique opportunity to explore a working farm, meet the farmers and experience first-hand how food can be produced while supporting wildlife, healthy soils, clean water and biodiversity.
With guided walks, demonstrations and the chance to learn about a variety of farming systems, each participating farm offers its own unique insight into the practical ways farmers are working with nature while producing nutritious food.
The Roscommon farmers taking part in this year’s event include alpaca farmer Andrew Chilton of Knockvicar Alpaca Farm (Boyle) and beef farmer Tommy Earley of Mount Allen Farm in North Roscommon.
Two events will take place on Knockvicar Farm, the first at 10 a.m. and the second at 12 noon, with capacity for up to 40 people at each. A morning event will take place on Mount Allen Farm catering for up to 30 people.
Each farm will offer a different experience and perspective, and the farmers are excited to welcome the public to their farms to share their stories, experiences and insights first-hand with attendees.
Andrew Chilton said they were “incredibly excited for the Inside the Gate eventâ¯at Knockvicar Alpacas. It's a great opportunity to open our farm gates and share the progressive, biodynamic and biodiversity farming practices we're so passionate about." Adult tickets cost just €5, children go free and places are limited for each event, so early booking is recommended.
Brigid Barry, co-founder of Farming for Nature explained: "Inside the Gate is all about creating a connection between people and the farms that produce their food. For many people, especially those living in towns and cities, opportunities to visit a working farm are few and far between. This event gives visitors the chance to meet farmers, ask questions and see first-hand how farming and nature can thrive together.
"Every farm taking part has its own story, but they all share a commitment to caring for the land while producing food. We hope people leave inspired by what they've seen and with a greater appreciation of the role farmers play in protecting nature. Following the success of Inside the Gate 2025, we are excited to run this special event again this year."
Inside the Gate is a family-friendly event and welcomes visitors of all ages, whether you're interested in farming, food, wildlife or simply looking for a memorable day out. Every visit offers a chance to connect with the people behind the food and experience how nature-friendly farming is making a difference across Ireland.
For tickets and more information, visit www.farmingfornature.ie/inside-the-gate.
* Farming for Nature is supported by the National Parks and Wildlife Service and the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine.
