Welcome to Flavour First, Donaghadee
Where the rhythm of the local seasons meets community, creativity, and memorable experiences.
About Flavour First:
Nestled in the heart of Donaghadee, Flavour First has grown from a traditional family-run farm into a vibrant hub of seasonal events and immersive rural experiences. While our roots remain firmly in the soil, our focus has blossomed beyond produce to celebrate the moments, memories, and magic that can only happen on a farm.
What’s New at Flavour First:
The landscape of our farm—and our business—is evolving, we’re embracing a new chapter: one centred around meaningful, nature-led events that bring people together.
🌻 Seasonal Signature Events:
Join us throughout the year for our headline events, from the golden glow of our Sunflower Fields in August, to the rustic charm of Pumpkins & Gourds in autumn, and exciting new additions like our Harvest Moon celebrations. These are the heartbeats of our calendar—and we can’t wait to share them with you.
🌸 Creative Collaborations:
We’ve welcomed The School Garden into one of our polytunnels, where they’re growing flowers and hosting whimsical events like Dress for Dahlias—a September celebration of blooms, bohemian style, and relaxed rural beauty.
🐮 Adopt a Highland Cow:
Our Highland herd are more than animals—they’re part of the family. And they can be part of yours too. Our Adopt a Highland Cow programme has become one of our most loved experiences, complete with meet-and-greets, updates from the fold, and plenty of hairy photo ops. By adopting, you’ll be joining a community that cares deeply for our four-legged stars.
🌲 The Farm as a Destination:
We’re also developing our site to include unique spaces like The Hoop House polytunnel and The Potting Shed—available soon for private hire. We’re creating beautiful, flexible spaces to bring your celebratory ideas to life.
🌿 Looking Ahead:
With new events, forest walks, family-friendly spaces and plenty of plans growing in the fields, Flavour First is becoming more than a farm—it’s a gathering place for memories to be made, season after season.
Stay connected:
Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for Highland cow updates, event announcements, and a behind-the-scenes peek at life on the farm.
Events and attractions
Step into the enchanting world of Flavour First, where the changing seasons bring forth a tapestry of captivating events. Our farm is a canvas for nature’s finest spectacles, including the breathtaking beauty of our sunflower field, a sight that transforms with the rhythm of the seasons. Picture yourself wandering through the golden sea of sunflowers, a sensory experience that is both visually stunning and deeply invigorating.
But the magic doesn’t stop there. Embrace the sweet joy of strawberry picking, where the warmth of the sun kisses each berry, enhancing its natural sweetness. These seasonal events at Flavour First are not just activities; they are immersive experiences that invite you to connect with nature, celebrate the bounty of each season, and create cherished memories with family and friends. Join us in revelling in the ever-changing wonders that our small family farm in Donaghadee has to offer.
Growing a Greener Tomorrow: Our Tree Planting Initiative of 2021
2021 marked a significant milestone in our sustainability journey as we dedicated our efforts to planting 1500 native trees on our land. This thoughtful initiative included a diverse selection of tree species such as willow, oak, birch, alder, Scots pine, Hawthorn, and beech. Our commitment to environmental stewardship and the well-being of our land is reflected in every tree planted, contributing to a healthier ecosystem and a greener future.
Here’s a closer look at the different tree species we carefully introduced:
Willow: Known for its flexibility and rapid growth, the willow is a versatile tree that not only adds aesthetic appeal but also plays a crucial role in stabilising soil along water bodies.
Oak: A symbol of strength and endurance, the oak tree is a cornerstone in many ecosystems. With its majestic presence, it provides habitat and sustenance for a wide array of wildlife.
Birch: Characterised by its slender form and distinctive bark, the birch tree brings a touch of elegance. It is valued for its adaptability and is often associated with renewal and new beginnings.
Alder: Thriving in wetter environments, the alder tree contributes to water purification and soil enrichment. Its nitrogen-fixing capabilities make it an ecological powerhouse.
Scots Pine: A hardy evergreen, the Scots pine is known for its straight trunk and tall stature. It serves as a habitat for various bird species and adds a timeless charm to the landscape.
Hawthorn: Admired for its dense and thorny branches, the hawthorn tree offers shelter and nesting sites for birds. Its blossoms and fruits contribute to the diversity of flora and fauna.
Beech: With its broad canopy and smooth bark, the beech tree is a shade provider and a symbol of tranquillity. It enhances biodiversity and contributes to the overall beauty of the landscape.
Each tree species planted in 2021 was chosen with careful consideration of its ecological impact and ability to enhance our land. This initiative not only enriches our surroundings but also underscores our dedication to fostering a thriving and sustainable environment.