We were lucky enough to be the first to step inside the brand-new Greenmeadow Community Farm ahead of its grand reopening on Saturday 13 September, and families are in for a real treat.
The much-loved farm has been at the heart of the community for generations, and many will remember visiting as children. Thanks to a £3.7 million redevelopment, it has been transformed into a space that’s bigger, brighter and more family-friendly than ever before.
From the moment we walked in, it was clear this is more than a facelift, it’s a whole new chapter. We got an early look at some of the farm’s new features while the finishing touches were still being added, and it’s exciting to see what’s in store for visitors.
One of the biggest changes is the Haybarn. Once a traditional farm space, it has been completely redesigned to host everything from weddings and parties to community celebrations. With added conference facilities, it even offers a unique spot for businesses looking to mix work with play.
Children will love the brand-new indoor play barn, designed for all-weather fun. Paired with a new outdoor adventure play area, it means little ones can run, climb and slide whatever the forecast.
Animal lovers are also in for a treat. A purpose-built animal barn will make it easier for families to get up close with farmyard favourites, from goats and pigs to cows and ponies, in a way that’s interactive and educational.
The café extension is another standout. Designed to blend into its surroundings, it feels modern yet still keeps the farm’s rustic charm. Alongside it, the farm shop has been expanded, showcasing local produce and giving visitors the chance to take home a taste of Greenmeadow.
Outdoors, new landscaping has created woodland walks, winding trails and sensory paths for families to explore. Add to that improved entrances and accessibility, and the site feels ready to welcome everyone.
The farm’s history hasn’t been forgotten either. Much-loved Rex the dragon remains, but with a colourful facelift by street artist Tee2Sugars. Hidden heritage has also been uncovered, including old bread ovens in the main building for visitors to see.
Earlier this year, the farm secured a £1.56m grant for an eco-friendly heating system, supported by climate funding, making the redevelopment as sustainable as it is exciting.
General Manager Jac Griffiths explained how important it was to respect the farm’s heritage while creating a modern, accessible destination. The farm has been closed since Covid, but instead of selling the site, the decision was made to invest in its future, ensuring it remains a treasured community space for years to come.
Food is set to be a highlight too. At the Farmer’s Table café, catering manager Daryl has created a new menu featuring sharing boards of local cheeses, charcuterie, seafood, seasonal vegetables and fresh breads. There are also hand-stretched pizzas, with the buffalo mozzarella and basil proving a hit, plus sides like polenta chips and salt & pepper fries. Younger visitors are well catered for with a dedicated children’s menu.
Accessibility has been a key focus throughout. Along with new disability changing facilities, baby changing has been added to both male and female toilets. A park-and-ride service with Cwmbran Festive will also make visits simpler and stress-free.
Walking through the site, it’s clear families will be impressed. Children will love the play areas, parents will appreciate the thoughtful updates, and everyone will enjoy the food, not to mention the animals.
Greenmeadow has always been a place where the community comes together, and now it’s ready for the next generation of family memories.
The grand reopening takes place on Saturday 13 September, with more family fun planned for October half-term. If our sneak peek is anything to go by, it’s going to be worth the wait.
Tickets are now on sale: www.greenmeadowcommunityfarm.org.uk
