de Beestenboel

Kinderboerderij de Beestenboel is a volunteer-run children’s farm in Zuid-Scharwoude, the Netherlands, established in 1983. It gives visitors the opportunity to encounter a variety of animals, including goats, sheep, donkeys, pigs, cats, chickens, guinea fowl, turkeys, rabbits and guinea pigs. The farm emphasizes animal welfare and received a quality mark for animal-friendly children’s farms in September 2023, becoming the sixth farm in the Netherlands to earn this recognition.

Alongside its animal areas, De Beestenboel organizes activities and celebrations and offers a Kabouterpad, or gnome trail. The organization also maintains and improves its buildings, enclosures and grounds through volunteer work and financial support from donors and sponsors. Contributions help cover animal food and care as well as farm maintenance. Volunteers can assist with feeding, gardening and practical tasks. The farm welcomes the public on selected weekdays and weekends, with opening hours that vary by season. De Beestenboel serves its local community as a welcoming place to meet animals and enjoy outdoor activities.