About Heeley City Farm
Heeley City Farm is a vibrant urban farm in Sheffield, connecting people with nature, animals, and sustainable living since 1981. We offer hands-on education, inclusive community programmes, and a welcoming space where everyone can grow, learn, and flourish together.
"My daughter had the best 2 days at the farm at their play scheme. She said it is the best holiday club she's been to...ever! She can't wait to go again. 8-hour session, free snacks and all the activities (a lot with the farm animals) it has really been worthwhile. I'll definitely be saving up and booking it again. Just wanted to share as it's a great option on our doorstep. The staff were also brilliant and super helpful too 💚"
Sarah Baird
History of the Farm
Heeley was made up of many small holdings and small farms, self sustaining communities. But as the industrial revolution came to Sheffield more and more factories, workshops and little mesters moved out of the city centre towards Heeley. Heeley Common cottages and original housing lived. In 1960 terraced houses, shops and even a pub sat on these two roads, making this area a community in itself. The current Heeley City Farm sits in 4 acres over two roads, Alexandra Road and Richard’s Road.
1963
Bypass Plans Approved
Sheffield City Council approved plans for a bypass through Heeley to run parallel to London Road, below Anns Road. Heeley residents realised that this would be a “through-pass” not a by-pass, completely splitting the local community. There was massive local opposition.
1980
Heeley Relief Road
Heeley Relief Road was due to be made cutting up the community. This Heeley Bypass scheme was controversial and due to the community rallying around and protesting construction never started and the land was put to new use.
1981
Heeley City Farm is Founded
Heeley City Farm was founded to bring a much-needed green space to a inner suburban Sheffield. The Farm grew organically over the years from it’s early days with a shed and £25 in the bank, and soon became a well-loved part of the Heeley landscape providing beautiful green spaces and education, employment, and training opportunities. Supporting young people, adults with support needs and the local community to access education and wellbeing through activities like animal care and gardening.
1984
First courses for adults with learning disabilities started
Our short courses allowed our adults with learning disabilities to learn new skills and socialise, taking part in lantern festivals, growing, and building the farm.
1984-1985
Developing the Farm
After years of neglect the farm played a critical role in regenerating the community and building a new vision for the area. Some large farm projects included the Heeley City Farm sign on Richards road, dividing wall between the main toilet block and now playground, main garden paths, and the Farm Garden Centre opened.
1990
First large farm festival
The first festival was hosted at Heeley City Farm called the 'Summer Programme'. This tradition is what became the Heeley City Farm Festival we still host today.
1992
Heeley City Farm on Challenge Anneka
A famous show across the nation. Anneka Rice, visited the farm and had 3 days working day and night to transform parts of the farm, with Anneka running around all of South Yorkshire asking for help, donations and animals she helped raise awareness of the farm and improve some of the facilities that still stand today. With the Pig Sties, the stables, and the pond still major highlights of the farm. Watch the video
1993
Farm kitchen Opened!
The Cafe was being built during the Challenge Anneka episode in 1992. Opened in 1993 serving a similar menu as it does today; a variety of hot and cold meals, sandwiches, cakes, and drinks.
1995
Community Rebuilds after fire
The farm was badly damaged in an arson attack in the stables causing the death of our horse and donkey. Over 15,000 people attended the Heeley Festival in Solidarity to raise funds and rebuild.
2006
South Yorkshire Energy Centre Built
The terraced house at the bottom of Alexandra Road is made into the South Yorkshire Energy centre demonstrating and educating the public on renewable energy and sustainable building materials through courses and advice.
2012
New play area opened
The new playground included a large playhouse, slide, climbing wall, and swing which holds several children at the same time.
2020
Forest Schools started with primary provision
Forest Schools were started with primary provision.
2024
The cafe gets a new look
The farm cafe got a new look!
2025
Fully Accessible Nature Garden Opened
Fully Accessible Nature Garden Opened
Every Donation Helps Us Grow
As a registered charity, Heeley City Farm relies on donations to remain open. Even a small donation can make a big difference to our Farm.
Becoming a friend of the farm will help us look after our rare breed animals, young people and adults with support needs. It will also help us keep running free community events.