Kilkenny's Orchard part of ‘Inside the Gate’ open farm day

The public are being invited to step inside the farm gate on Sunday, August 30, as a local farm family opens their farm gates as part of Inside the Gate, a nationwide family-friendly open farm day organised by Farming For Nature.

Inside the Gate gives visitors a unique opportunity to explore a working farm, meet the farmers and experience first-hand how food can be produced while supporting wildlife, healthy soils, clean water and biodiversity.

With guided walks, demonstrations and the chance to learn about a variety of farming systems, each participating farm offers its own unique insight into the practical ways farmers are working with nature while producing nutritious food.

The Kilkenny farmers taking part in this year’s event are Rod and Julie Calder-Potts of Highbank Orchard in Cuffesgrange.

Highbank Farm will host an event from 10am to 1pm, with capacity for up to 30 people to tour the farm.

Visitors can board a train which goes through the farm, showcasing its organic orchards, ponds, woods, hedgerows and tillage fields.

Rod and Julie have built two lakes onsite, planted forestry and sown pollinator friendly flowers to encourage solitary bees amongst other insects. There is a diverse range of wildlife on the farm, as well as a wide range of insects and fungi.

Adult tickets cost just €5, children go free and places are limited for each event, so early booking is recommended.

Please read about the different events on offer to get an understanding of what you can expect on the day, as well as timings, ticket booking options and FAQs for all events nationwide. All info is available here: www.farmingfornature.ie/inside-the-gate.

Brigid Barry, co-founder of Farming for Nature, said: “Inside the Gate is all about creating a connection between people and the farms that produce their food.

“For many people, especially those living in towns and cities, opportunities to visit a working farm are few and far between. This event gives visitors the chance to meet farmers, ask questions and see first-hand how farming and nature can thrive together.“Every farm taking part has its own story, but they all share a commitment to caring for the land while producing food.

“We hope people leave inspired by what they've seen and with a greater appreciation of the role farmers play in protecting nature. Following the success of Inside the Gate 2025, we are excited to run this special event again this year.”

Inside the Gate is a family-friendly event and welcomes visitors of all ages, whether you’re interested in farming, food, wildlife or simply looking for a memorable day out. Every visit offers a chance to connect with the people behind our food and experience how nature-friendly farming is making a difference across Ireland.

For tickets and more information, visit www.farmingfornature.ie/inside-the-gate

Farming for Nature is supported by the National Parks and Wildlife Service and the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine.

Highbank Orchard has been a certified organic farm for more than 36 years as, adhering to methods that prioritise soil health, minimise environmental impact, and eliminate harmful chemicals.

A family business spanning five generations, Highbank’s legacy is also protected by meticulously maintaining and preserving the architectural integrity and cultural significance of the18th-century stone buildings on the property.

The orchard produces apple cider vinegar, balsamic vinegar, orchard syrup and treacle, apple rum, apple brandey, wine and cider. Cocktail and food recipes can also be found on the Highbank Orchard website: https://highbankorchards.com/