The Sheldon Country Park Ranger Service is based at Old Rectory Farm, a 17th Century dairy farm, which is situated on the main entrance to the park. The farm has historic importance, having been the home of Sheldon's most celebrated son, Thomas Bray, from 1690 to 1721.

In recent years Old Rectory Farm has been fully restored and now operates as a demonstration farm, showing city dwellers traditional methods of agriculture. The farm animals include Jersey cattle, pigs, goats, ponies, ducks, chickens and geese. The farm is open to the public and facilities include a children's playground and picnic areas. Old Rectory Farm has a unique charm, as most of the farm staff has some form of disability. The staff are very welcoming to all visitors, from all parts of the community. The farm is open to visitors every day throughout the year and admission and parking are free.

The ground is relatively flat and broad paths have been cut throughout the park to improve accessibility and to encourage visitors to explore. The site has a substantial car park. Less-able walkers and wheelchair users can access a hard-surfaced nature trail directly from the main car park. The farm site is fully accessible and has one unisex disabled toilet with a radar lock. Disabled drivers are welcome to park in the farmyard. Staff are always available to give assistance.

Events

The Rangers hold a variety of events throughout the year, such as guided tours of the farm, monthly rambles and crafts, for example how to build a bird box.

Health

There are many informal areas which are conservation managed, with desire line walks and some formal pathways. Community Health has identified a 2km Walking Route on site and the new East Birmingham Cycle Route will form part of its pathway through the park, entering at both Marston Green Railway Station and at Bell Lane. The site also has three football pitches.

Trees

The Sheldon Ward Millennium Woodland is planted on this site, which includes the Khalsa Woodland and a Memorial Planting by the Council of Sikh Gurdwara, that can be found on the Coventry Road frontage, where five Ash Trees were planted in the year 2000.The Westley Brook that runs through the park is canalised and fenced.

If you would like more information please Tel: 0121 742 0226 or email: sheldon.country.park@birmingham.gov.uk