We are delighted to have the opportunity to host PAAWstival 2021 at Mudchute Park and Farm, a beautiful city farm set against the backdrop of Canary Wharf. Having lived on the Isle of Dogs we were regular visitors to the Farm, chatting with the animals (they rarely answered), and visiting the café. We love the charity and community aspect of Mudchute and can’t wait to meet lots of their friends and supporters at PAAWstival 2021. Gabby & Vinnie
About Mudchute Park and Farm
Located on the Isle of Dogs, set in 32 acres of countryside in the heart of East London, the Mudchute is a community charity, with a working farm, stables, a children’s nursery and a wide range of education facilities. The charity preserves the open space and makes it available for events, community groups or just a simple family picnic. Where else would you get to share your lunch with friendly fur and feathered creatures in the heart of London.
The charity has 6 key objectives
Preserve the natural environment of the Mudchute
Promote for local people the opportunity of recreation and leisure on the Mudchute, especially the young, the elderly and those of limited economic means
Advance the education of local people in countryside activities
Promote animal welfare through engagement with the Farm
Provide education and training for young people
Promote conservation both of the natural and the built environment
History
The Mudchute Park & Farm was established by the local Island community. Originally a piece of derelict land created during the last century from the spoil of construction from dredging Millwall Dock. For decades, this hidden natural wilderness of flora and fauna remained untouched. However, in 1974 the site was earmarked by the Greater London Council for the construction of a high-rise estate. The resulting public campaign against these plans reflected the affection that local people and those working on the Island felt for The Mudchute. Their success secured it as the "People's Park" for the area.
In 1977 the Mudchute Association was formed to preserve and develop the area. Farm animals and horses were introduced, trees and plants were planted by generous volunteers and corporate teams, and the educational benefits of the area were also recognised.
Community
Once established local schools were encouraged to use the project to study the natural world on their doorsteps. Since the establishment of the Association, The Mudchute has steadily built a reputation for providing a variety of educational and leisure activities on a London-wide basis. The Mudchute education project provides a unique resource for schools and local children.
The project works with local schools by providing structured activities and courses in Environmental Education, Science and Farming topics. These are linked to the needs of the National Curriculum and focus on a wide range of subjects, including Biology of Plants and Animals, Geography, Environmental Issues, Art, English and Maths.
Mudchute x PAAWstival 2021
The team at Mudchute are excited to welcome PAAWstival to the Farm later this year. We share lots of similar values; animal welfare, dog love, community, family, charity, education and above all and like the people at PAAW House we love a good party, one that benefits our charity is the icing on the cake.
For more information, to support or visit Mudchute Farm, check out their website City Farm London Mudchute Park and Farm Isle of Dogs