The Big Sheep

The Big Sheep is an amusement park in Abbotsham featuring eight rides including a roller coaster, farm safari, and train attractions, plus an indoor play zone called EWEtopia with slides and climbing structures. The park sits on former farmland and combines ride areas with animal enclosures throughout its grounds.

The site was originally Barton Farm, owned by one family for six generations before Rick Turner transformed it into an entertainment destination in 1988. This conversion marked the shift from agricultural use to a contemporary family attraction.

The daily sheep races merge traditional farming practices with contemporary family entertainment, showing how the site honors its agricultural roots through active animal participation. Visitors witness the training and care of these animals up close, an unusual experience within a modern amusement setting.

The park operates daily from April through October and weekends only from November to March, with free parking available for all guests. Facilities are accessible and designed to accommodate all visitors comfortably.

In response to complaints from local residents during roller coaster installation, management posted signs prohibiting screaming on the rides. This unusual rule remains visible to visitors and reflects a compromise between the park and its neighboring community.

Location: Abbotsham

Address: Abbotsham Rd, Abbotsham, Bideford EX39 5AP, UK

Opening Hours: Monday-Tuesday 10:00-14:00; Friday 10:00-14:00; Saturday-Sunday 10:00-16:00

Phone: +441237472366

Website: http://thebigsheep.co.uk

GPS coordinates: 51.01570,-4.24402

Latest update: December 11, 2025 18:07