The Big Sheep – A Fantastic Family Day Out!
Abbotsham, Bideford, EX39 5AP. | 01237 472366
A North Devon Favourite for All Ages
If you’re staying in Lynton & Lynmouth and looking for a family-friendly adventure, The Big Sheep is one of North Devon’s most entertaining attractions. Set just 40 minutes away near Bideford, it offers the perfect mix of laughter, learning, and high-energy fun – all surrounded by the countryside charm of a former working farm.
Whether you’re wrangling toddlers on a rainy day or entertaining teens in the school holidays, The Big Sheep delivers a memorable experience year-round.
What is The Big Sheep?
The Big Sheep is a hybrid attraction: part heritage farm, part amusement park, and all geared toward families. Originally a sheep farm, it has grown into a North Devon institution, drawing thousands of families annually with its unique mix of live shows, play zones, and rides.
What sets it apart is its dedication to local farming traditions blended with crowd-pleasing fun – from tractor rides and animal feeding to roller coasters and duck trials.
Rampage Roller Coaster
– North Devon’s largest family coaster, with twisting loops and countryside views.
Sheep Racing Arena
– A hilarious spectacle where real sheep (with pun-filled names) race for glory.
EWEtopia Indoor Playground
– A vast soft-play zone with slides, ball pits, and a sensory area for babies.
Animal Barn & Pets’ Corner
– Hands-on fun feeding lambs, cuddling bunnies, and meeting donkeys, goats, and alpacas.
Tractor Safari & Swan Pedalos
– Gentle, scenic rides perfect for younger children.
Live Shows & Seasonal Events
– Daily sheep shearing demos, duck trials, and big events like Toddler Fest, Halloween Frights, and Christmas Markets.
Why It’s Worth the Trip from Lynton & Lynmouth
Families staying in Lynton & Lynmouth often seek a mix of coastal beauty and inland experiences. The Big Sheep offers exactly that balance. It’s a weatherproof option (thanks to extensive indoor areas), has plenty of parking, and allows children to let loose while adults relax with fresh local food from the cafés.
Best of all, it makes an excellent contrast to the wilder landscapes of Exmoor – giving kids the chance to burn energy and learn about animals in a safe, engaging setting.
Plan Your Day from the Coast to the Countryside
Start your morning with a hearty breakfast in Lynton & Lynmouth, then take the scenic route toward Bideford. Combine your Big Sheep visit with nearby sights like Clovelly or Appledore for a full day of Devon adventures.
Whether you’re planning for a rainy day or just want to give the kids a break from beaches and hills, The Big Sheep offers unbeatable variety, warmth, and family fun.
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