Washbrooks Family Farm has been family run for over 70 years.
After the second world war Peter Nelson became farm manager, then became farm tenant before buying it in the 1980’s. Peter and his wife Margaret had four children Andrew, Holly, Marcus and Alexandra.
At that time Washbrooks was a working farm and bringing the harvest in was a significant part of the farming calendar.
As well as being farmers, Mr and Mrs Nelson were an active part of church life and the village community. Mr Nelson was involved in the youth clubs and Mrs Nelson started a preschool in Hurstpierpoint in the Parish Room. This still exists today – Hurstpierpoint Pre-School, within the village centre on Trinity Road. Many of our visitors and their families still recall fond memories of Mr and Mrs Nelson’s connection with village.
In the 1980’s, their sons Andrew and Marcus helped Peter and Margaret run the farm.
Andrew had an idea to open a farm centre and in 1984 Washbrooks Farm Centre was opened to members of the public.
During this time Washbrooks commenced a fun learning experience offering an educational element for local schools and preschools. Visitors remember the tractor and trailer ride weaving in and out of the outdoor play area, and our wonderful shire horse rides championed by Prince.
In 2010, Jessica, Kate and Andrew’s daughter took over with her husband Peter – taking the day to day running into the third generation of the family. They live at Washbrooks with their two sons and niece.
The animal barn, play areas and tearoom were adapted and form the basis of the farm today. The brand values remain the same as they were from the start; good value for money, home cooked food, a friendly atmosphere and a place to relax and have fun with family and friends.
Our visitors often recall memories of different generations visiting, enjoy seeing those members of the team that have been with us for many years and meeting the new faces.
We pride ourselves on maintaining our brand values and look for ways to continue to improve.
Our proposition is a simple one “Fresh Air and Fun”.