About Surrey Docks Farm
Surrey Docks Farm is a working city farm in the heart of London. It occupies a beautiful 2.2 acre site on the south bank of the river Thames in Rotherhithe.
At the farm
The Farm offers a perfect setting for environmental activities all year round, with something interesting to see in every season, no matter the weather.
We work closely with local communities and the people of Southwark to provide unique opportunities for learning about farming and food production, while also encouraging active involvement in the daily life of the Farm.
There are a variety of green and horticultural attractions at Surrey Docks Farm. We have an orchard, herb garden, dye garden, vegetable plots, and the wildlife area.
Our animals include goats, sheep, cows, pigs, ducks, geese, chickens, and a pony. All our herds and flocks are cared for with a strong focus on animal welfare at all times.
Site history
The Farm was first established in 1975 on a 1.5 acre site of derelict dockland between the entrance to Greenland Dock and the River Thames. Its initial purpose was to try and raise livestock and produce food from what was regarded as wasteland. In June 1986 the farm was re-located to its present site, a 2.2 acre site on the river Thames at South Wharf. This historic site has been the subject of a Heritage Lottery Fund project to explore its eventful history.
The Provident Society
The Farm is run by Surrey Docks Farm Provident Society Limited a community benefit society registered under the Co-operatives and Community Benefit Societies Act 2014, number 22829R. Recognised as charitable by HM Revenue & Customs number XN54265
Current patrons of the Society include the Bishop of Southwark and Sir Simon Hughes. The Society particularly encourages membership applications from local people to ensure they are at the forefront of what is essentially a local community project. Committee members of the Provident Society are elected at the Annual General Meeting.