Farmers produce more than half of all the food we eat, and this weekend is the time to celebrate all that they do.

Open Farm Sunday is the chance for your family to enjoy the sights, sounds and smells of the farmyard and meet some four-legged friends. There will also be activities like sheep shearing, machinery displays and even cookery demonstrations at participating farms across the county.

From producing milk, cheese, meat, fruit and vegetables, to cupboard staples such as breakfast cereals, flour, rapeseed oil and eggs, farmers also spend hours every week caring for the countryside.

David Gough of organisers LEAF (Linking Environment and Farming) said: “Open Farm Sunday is a chance for visitors to meet farmers and discover for themselves the story behind their food.

“It offers an enjoyable day out for everyone. Each farm plans their own unique event and many will include a host of activities from nature walks to farm tours.”

five taking part...

Just some of the many farms taking part in different Kent districts include:

Monkshill Farm at Waterham, near Faversham, from 11am to 4pm: Meet all the usual farm animals plus alpacas, enjoy self-guided walks and games in the children’s play area. Call 01227 752049.

Old Rides Farm at Eastchurch, Sheppey, from 10am to 4pm: There will be machine demonstrations, farm animals on show, tractor, trailer and horse and cart rides, and refreshments including a hog roast and barbecue. Call 01795 880224.

Princess Christian’s Farm in Hildenborough, near Tonbridge, from 10am to 3pm: The day includes farm tours, sheep shearing, tractor driving, milk-a-cow, children’s games and interactive sessions plus the farm shop, a tearoom and burger van specialising in locally produced meat. Call 01732 838408.

Karoben Park Farm at Smarden, near Ashford, from 10am to 5pm. Attractions include farm trails, arts and crafts, donkey rides, cuddly corner, potting-up class, and meet the animals with a special feeding session scheduled for 3.30pm. Call 01233 771999.

Warren Farm, Shorne, near Gravesend from 11am to 4pm: Meet the friendly piglets, lambs, goats, sheep and even try and charm the llamas. Bring a picnic to enjoy in the grounds. Call 01474 823030.

To find a participating venue during Open Farm Sunday, and for time and price details, visit www.farmsunday.org