Wellbeing Experiences with Goats at Bishop’s Court Farm

Unwind and Unplug

Are you looking for a unique way to hit the ‘pause’ button? Forget the yoga mat for a moment and step into the paddock. We’re inviting you to experience the farm in a whole new way -through the eyes of our resident goats.

In collaboration with Kat Bjurstedt, founder of Goatopia, Bishop’s Court Farm is delighted to host these Well-being Experiences with Goats.

Designed as a gentle escape from the hustle and rush of our every-day lives, these small-group experiences offer you the chance to slow down, breathe in the fresh Oxfordshire air, and connect with some of our most charming inhabitants.

Meet the Herd

Under Kat’s facilitation, you’ll be introduced to the distinct personalities that make our herd so special. Among them you’ll find:

Goldie: Our resident explorer, always the first to say hello.

Teasel: A little bit feisty, a lot of fun, and guaranteed to make you smile.

Dorothy: The “gentle dame” of the group, who perfectly embodies the calm we hope you’ll find here.

What to Expect

These sessions aren’t just about observation; they’re about interaction. You’ll learn a little about the history and quirky behaviours of these intelligent, curious animals while engaging in some gentle, hands-on time with them. Part of the session will involve encouraging the goats to climb on the structures in the enclosure, using feed as an enticement. This can get a little more boisterous!

Do wear clothing that doesn’t mind being visited by goats’ feet!

Don’t worry, the goats are mainly pygmies, no bigger than a medium-sized dog. Dorothy is a larger breed, but she is too elderly and dignified to get overly excited even when there’s food on offer.

Goats live entirely in the moment, and their playful energy is infectious. Kat will guide you to notice your own feelings and responses during the session—perhaps finding that their simple curiosity helps your own worries to drift away. We’ll wrap up the session with a short, quiet moment of reflection to help you carry that sense of farmyard peace back home with you.

What happens if it rains 

British weather can be unpredictable, and the experience will be less than enjoyable for all if it rains. Goats don’t have waterproof coats and dislike rain with a passion! They will simply retreat to their shelter and refuse to come out to play. Unfortunately, in such cases we’ll need to cancel the session. Don’t worry though, we’ve got you covered! You can choose to receive a refund, or you can reschedule to another date, subject to availability.

If the session is interrupted by rain up to 30 minutes in, you will receive a full refund.

Every effort is made to notify participants at least 12 hours in advance, but we may cancel up to one hour before the start of the session.

How long does it last?

A session lasts between 75 minutes – 1.5 hours. We’ll spend part of the session seated on the ground (waterproof sit mats are provided). If sitting on the ground is an issue for you, a chair can be provided. Please check the weather forecast before the session and dress appropriately.

Join Us

Whether you’re a lifelong animal lover or just someone in need of a little “me-time,” our goats are ready to welcome you. Come for the fun, stay for the relaxation, and leave with a lighter heart.

Children

The minimum age to participate is 10. Children under 15 must be accompanied by a responsible paying adult.

Cancellation policy

You can change or cancel your booking free of charge up to 48 hours before the start of the session. Cancellations with less than 48 hours notice are not refundable.

Contact

For more information or any questions please contact Kat by email.

Ready to find your farmyard zen? Check our latest schedule and book your spot

SOUS CHEF  – THE FLEUR DE LYS

The Fleur De Lys is situated in the lovely, picturesque village of Dorchester- on-Thames and has recently come under new ownership. It’s currently undergoing refurbishment and we are keen to get our kitchen team established ready for the grand reopening. We are aiming for a traditional pub menu with twists on the British classic’s. As well as a bar snack menu to run alongside this. Pure and simply is the aim.

This really will be a great venture for a chef with the vision and determination to deliver quality food, whilst overseeing the day to day running of the kitchen.

The ideal candidate must have at least 3 years’ experience in a professional environment, an excellent aptitude for delivering high quality food, a keen eye for detail, whilst confidently capable of running an efficient service. Must also be familiar with designing new menus in collaboration with the Head Chef.

We offer fair working hours in an environment that will enable the ideal candidate the opportunity to achieve a desirable work/life balance. An ideal situation for a chef who wants a life outside of work as well.

PACKAGE
Salary: £24,000 - £26,000 per year | 40 hr week over 2 splits - 3 days | 2 Consecutive days off

BENEFITS
Subsidised meals | Employee discount | Onsite parking | Flexible working hours | 28 days holiday including bank holidays | Pension scheme after probation period

COMMIS CHEF  – THE FLEUR DE LYS

The Fleur De Lys is situated in the lovely, picturesque village of Dorchester- on-Thames and has recently come under new ownership. It’s currently undergoing refurbishment and we are keen to get our kitchen team established ready for the grand reopening. We are aiming for a traditional pub menu with twists on the British classic’s. As well as a bar snack menu to run alongside this. This is an exciting opportunity for a chef who not only has the vision but the determination to deliver good quality food.

The ideal candidate must have at least 1 year experience in a professional kitchen with an excellent attitude for providing good quality food with a keen eye for detail. We offer fair working hours, allowing for a great work/life balance. The ideal situation for a chef who wants a life outside of work as well. For the ideal candidate, there is the chance for progression within the company.

PACKAGE
Salary: £20,000-£22,000 per year | Work shifts: 40 hr week | 2 split shifts, 3 days | 2 consecutive days off

BENEFITS
Subsidised meals | Employee discount | Onsite parking | Flexible working hours | 28 days holiday including bank holidays