This weekend, Harlow Council’s Pets’ Corner celebrated its 60th anniversary with a packed programme of activities across two fantastic days.
Since officially opening on 17 May 1966, Pets’ Corner in the Town Park has grown into one of Harlow’s most treasured attractions. Generations of families have visited the site, which has evolved over the decades from a small collection of animals into a well-loved community farm offering educational experiences, conservation work and close encounters with a wide range of animals.
Over the years, Pets’ Corner has been home to many much-loved animals that have become local favourites from friendly goats and curious meerkats to donkeys, llamas and rabbits that generations of children have grown up visiting. For many residents, these animals form part of their childhood memories, making Pets’ Corner a truly special place at the heart of the community.
The anniversary celebrations gave residents the chance to share those fond memories, talk about their favourite animals, and reflect on everything Pets’ Corner means to them. It was also an opportunity to recognise the dedication and hard work of council staff, volunteers, and everyone who has contributed to the success of Pets’ Corner over the last six decades.
Commenting on how much Pets’ Corner means to Harlow, Councillor Danielle Brown, Cabinet Member for Culture and Community, said:
“Pets’ Corner is much more than a visitor attraction – it is part of Harlow’s identity.
“For 60 years it has brought joy to families, provided learning opportunities for young people, and created lasting memories for generations of residents. As a council, we are proud to invest in places like Pets’ Corner, which play such an important role in our community and in enhancing quality of life.
“Pets’ Corner continues to go from strength to strength thanks to its dedicated staff, volunteers and supporters, and we will keep it free to enter so everyone in Harlow can continue to enjoy it.
“As we continue our mission to transform the council and build Harlow’s future, protecting and improving valued facilities like Pets’ Corner is extremely important. It shows our ongoing commitment to maintaining the things that matter most to families, while looking ahead to the next generation of residents and the next 60 years.”
Pets’ Corner is free to enter and is open seven days a week from 11am to 4pm.
Pets' Corner through the years
