Hatton Adventure World is a fine example of a farm that has embraced the concept of farm diversification. It is part of a country estate owned by the Arkwright family who are direct descendants of Sir Richard Arkwright, a pioneer of the industrial revolution.
The Arkwright family acquired Hatton Estate in 1830, and was originally seven small farmsteads. Over the years the small buildings on the farms became redundant due to the modernisation of British farming. The current owners, Johnnie and Arabella Arkwright saw a different future for these buildings and in the early 1980?s created Hatton Country World.
Hatton Craft Centre was the first area of diversification in 1983, utilising these redundant farm buildings and transforming them into craft outlets. This attracted a blacksmith, saddler, wood turner and vintage car restorer amongst others.
In 1985 Hatton Craft Centre won the UK Rural Employment Award and in 1987 it was voted Craft Centre of the Year. The Craft Centre has now become Hatton Shopping Village, anchored by a Garden Centre, an Antiques Centre and 2 restaurants. Hatton Adventure World started as a Farm Park in 1991 with a rare breeds centre, pets corner and adventure play. The centre?s name was changed to Hatton Country World.