Children like seeing animals, but they enjoy feeding, stroking and cuddling them even more. And they can spend all day doing just that at Cruckley.

We took our neighbour's six-year-old daughter, Dorothy Duklas, along to accompany our daughter, and they both loved it. Their favourite attraction was the hatchery, where they could see chicks emerge from their eggs, and could pick up slightly older, cheepy and fluffy ones. The second biggest hit of the day was feeding time for some orphaned lambs. Dorothy and other youngsters were given bottles of milk to indulge the creature's huge appetites. They also had a go at milking an artificial cow, and patted inquisitive goats and some very tame, friendly and woolly sheep. The farm also has a serious side, helping to prevent the extinction of some of Britain's rare breeds, for which it has won the approval of the Rare Breeds Survival Trust.

Refreshments? There's a caf selling drinks, ice creams and snacks, with toilets nearby.

Family friendly? It's hard to think of a more family friendly attraction. Judging by the "oohs" and "aahhs" of youngsters when I was there, it's a guaranteed hit for children from toddler age up to early teens. A good day out for grandparents wanting to amuse their grandchildren.

Opening times? Open: Daily, 10.30pm to 5.30pm.

How much? Adult £3.75, OAP £3.25, children £3, twos and under free. Excellent value - particularly if you have little children or grandchildren.

Parking? Ample free parking is available on site

Directions? Situated just off the B1249 Driffield to Beeford Road at Foston-on-the-Wolds. To get there: take the A166 to Driffield, and then look for signs

Further information: 01262 488337, or visit www.cruckley.co. uk

Updated: 10:16 Saturday, April 29, 2006