Introduction: Authentic Irish Farm Experience with a Personal Touch
If you’re looking for a genuine taste of Irish rural life, a guided tour at Murtagh’s Organic Farm in the heart of Westmeath offers just that. This isn’t a slick tourist trap; it’s a working farm that values authenticity, biodiversity, and family-friendly fun. Over two hours, you’ll get up close with friendly farm animals, learn about regenerative farming practices, and enjoy hearty local products—all in a warm, welcoming setting.
What I particularly love about this experience is how it balances educational value with hands-on activities. Kids and adults alike will get to plant seeds, feed animals, and walk scenic farm paths. Plus, the farm’s commitment to rescuing neglected animals adds an inspiring touch. On the flip side, the tour requires at least six participants to run, so if you’re a solo traveler or small group, you’ll need to coordinate with others or plan ahead.
Another highlight is the charming gift shop—full of local crafts, organic goodies, and farm souvenirs—that caps off the visit. And if you’re planning a special celebration, the farm hosts birthday parties with private guided activities. Just keep in mind that during weekends, the farm is open to the public, so it’s not a private experience then. Still, it offers a rare chance to see real Irish farm life in action—an experience that’s as educational as it is enjoyable.
Key points / Takeaways
- Authentic farm life: The farm is a genuine working operation focusing on organic and regenerative practices.
- Variety of animals: Meet pigs, goats, sheep, rabbits, chickens, and rescued animals, making it perfect for animal lovers.
- Educational focus: Learn about biodiversity, regenerative farming, and animal welfare from the passionate farm owners.
- Family-friendly activities: Kids can plant seeds, get creative in the coloring area, and interact safely with animals.
- Private tours available: Weekday guided group tours are tailored for schools, birthdays, or special groups.
- Great location: Just 15 minutes from Mullingar and Ballymahon, on the scenic Royal Canal and Greenway.
Here are more great tours and experiences we've reviewed in Westmeath County
Discovering Murtagh’s Organic Farm: An In-Depth Look
The Farm Itself: A True Working Organic Farm
Walking into Murtagh’s Organic Farm feels like stepping into a genuine Irish farm, not a staged attraction. The farm covers over 100 acres of lush farmland and forestry, which contributes to its focus on biodiversity and regenerative farming. The owners are committed to animal welfare and ecological health, ensuring the animals are kept in happy, natural environments.
One intriguing aspect is the farm’s rescue work—animals that were abandoned in the city or neglected find a second chance here. You might meet piri piri pigs, donkeys, and pet lambs, all living proof of the farm’s compassion and dedication. The authenticity of the farm means you’ll see real farming practices, not just a staged petting zoo.
Meeting the Animals: A Heartwarming Encounter
The highlight for many visitors is the chance to interact with and learn about the farm animals. Friendly pigs, including the distinctive piri piri pigs, run freely in designated areas, while goats and sheep eagerly approach visitors. Feedings are a highlight, and kids especially enjoy getting to pet rabbits and guinea pigs or see ducks waddling around. The farm’s approach is to keep the environment as natural as possible, which means the animals live in spacious, outdoor settings.
A review mentions how “the animals are well cared for and very friendly,” which is key for a family experience. The farm’s guided tours are led by knowledgeable hosts who love sharing stories about their rescue animals and farming practices.
Learning About Organic and Regenerative Farming
The educational part of the tour genuinely stands out. Guides like Murtagh himself or other staff provide fun and informative talks on topics like biodiversity and soil health. They explain how regenerative farming improves the land, making it more resilient and sustainable. This isn’t dry lecture material; it’s engaging, accessible, and tailored to all ages.
You’ll learn why the farm prioritizes biodiversity and how their care for the land benefits both the environment and the local community. It’s a valuable lesson that makes the experience meaningful beyond just petting animals.
The Scenic Farm Walks and Activities
The farm walk takes you through scenic paths along the Royal Canal and Greenway, offering lovely views and photo opportunities. Kids can get creative in the coloring area, and everyone can enjoy some downtime in outdoor seating, taking in the fresh Irish air.
Planting seeds is a fun, hands-on activity that connects visitors with the farm’s organic ethos. It’s simple but meaningful—giving kids a sense of responsibility and a tangible memory of their visit.
The Gift Shop and Café: Local Flavors and Crafts
Before leaving, most visitors stop by the gift shop, which is full of local crafts, organic products, and farm souvenirs. You can pick up some homemade jams, organic soaps, or handcrafted toys—perfect keepsakes or gifts.
The farm also offers freshly brewed coffee from friendly baristas, making it a cozy spot to unwind after the tour. The combination of good coffee and local treats adds a nice touch to the visit.
Special Events and Private Tours: Tailored Experiences
For groups, especially schools or birthday parties, private guided tours are available on weekdays. These are tailored to suit the group’s interests, with a focus on biodiversity and regenerative farming. The farm often hosts birthday parties with outdoor activities, animal encounters, and dedicated dining areas, making for a memorable celebration.
Keep in mind that weekend visits are open to the public, so during those times, the experience is more communal and less private. Still, it’s a wonderful opportunity to see authentic farm life in action.
Practicalities: How to Make the Most of Your Visit
Since the tour lasts around two hours, it’s best to arrive with some flexibility in your schedule. The tours start at various times—check availability beforehand—and remember that a minimum of six participants is required for the tour to go ahead. If your group is smaller, you might need to coordinate with others or reschedule.
The farm is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for visitors with mobility needs. As transportation isn’t included, plan to drive or arrange local transport. Remember, food and drinks are not included—so bring snacks or plan to purchase local treats at the café.
Who Will Love This Experience?
This experience is ideal for families with children, animal lovers, and anyone interested in sustainable farming. It’s particularly suited for those who want a genuine, hands-on educational outing rather than a scripted tourist attraction. If you’re curious about Ireland’s organic farming movement or want to see rescue animals in a caring environment, this tour offers both.
It’s also a wonderful choice for school groups and special celebrations like birthdays, providing a meaningful outdoor activity that educates and entertains.
Price and Logistics: Value for the Experience
While there’s no mention of specific pricing here, considering the two-hour guided tour, hands-on activities, and access to the gift shop, it offers good value. Private guided tours especially allow for personalized attention and deeper learning, which can be quite enriching.
Since the tour requires advance booking and a minimum of six people, it’s best to plan ahead, especially for groups. The option to reserve now and pay later adds flexibility for travelers unsure about their schedule.
Keep in mind that transportation isn’t included, so your travel arrangements are up to you. The farm’s proximity—just 15 minutes from Mullingar and Ballymahon—makes it quite accessible as part of a wider Irish countryside itinerary.
Who Should Consider Visiting Murtagh’s Organic Farm?
This experience is perfect for families seeking a fun, educational day out in Ireland’s countryside. It suits animal enthusiasts and those interested in sustainable farming practices. The farm’s focus on animal rescue and biodiversity adds depth to the visit, making it meaningful for visitors wanting more than just a petting farm.
It’s ideal for school groups looking for a hands-on learning experience or special celebrations like birthdays. If you’re after a relaxed, authentic look at Irish farm life with a touch of local charm, this tour fits the bill.
FAQs: Practical Questions About Murtagh’s Organic Farm Guided Tour
Is there a minimum number of people needed for the tour?
Yes, the tour requires at least six people to proceed. If you don’t reach this number, you’ll be contacted 48 hours in advance to reschedule.
Are private guided tours available?
Yes, private guided group tours are available on weekdays by appointment. They include educational talks on biodiversity and regenerative farming.
Can I visit during the weekend?
Yes, the farm is open to the public every weekend, offering a shared experience with other visitors. During weekends, it’s not a private tour but still very authentic.
How long does the tour last?
The guided tour lasts approximately two hours, covering animal encounters, farm walks, and educational talks.
Is the farm wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the farm is wheelchair friendly, allowing visitors with mobility needs to enjoy the experience.
What’s included in the tour?
The tour includes a chance to meet farm animals, plant seeds, enjoy scenic walks, and browse the gift shop with local products and organic goodies.
Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included but can be purchased at the farm’s café.
How do I book?
You can reserve your spot via GetYourGuide, with options to book now and pay later. Just check availability for your preferred date.
What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activities, and perhaps some rain gear—Irish weather can be unpredictable!
Can I organize a birthday party here?
Yes, birthday parties with outdoor activities and animal encounters are available on weekends, complete with a private dining area (subject to availability).
The Sum Up: Who Will Get the Most Out of This Experience?
If you crave an authentic glimpse into Irish farm life combined with a focus on biodiversity and animal rescue, Murtagh’s Organic Farm offers a memorable and meaningful outing. It’s particularly well-suited for families with children, school groups, or anyone interested in learning about sustainable farming practices in a relaxed, friendly environment.
The farm’s passion for conservation, hands-on activities, and delicious local products make it more than just a farm visit—it’s an engaging day that educates and entertains. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a peaceful rural escape, this experience delivers genuine Irish charm.
Keep in mind the need for advance booking and a group minimum, but once you’re there, you’ll find it’s a well-spent two hours of authentic farm life and heartfelt care for the land and animals.
In short, Murtagh’s Organic Farm is a sincere, rewarding way to connect with Ireland’s countryside, perfect for those who value real experiences and thoughtful, sustainable practices.
Feel free to explore similar experiences:
The Celtic Tour Boyne Valley Full Day Tour from Dublin, Castlegaddery Murtagh’s Organic Farm Entry Ticket, or Moate Dun na Si Heritage Park Admission.