How It All Began: The Story of Croft Farm Toys
We often get asked how Croft Farm Toys started, and the truth is, it wasn’t a grand business plan. It was a Christmas list.
As 4th generation dairy farmers here in Lancashire, our family’s life revolves around the farm. It’s in our blood, and we’re already seeing that same passion in our own children. And it was the next generation that unknowingly sparked this whole new adventure.
The “Butterfly Mower” Moment
It all started one Christmas when my eldest son wrote on his list: “a butterfly mower just like Grandad’s”.
Any farming parent will know that look of determination. He didn’t just want a toy mower; he wanted one that looked just like the real machine he sees his grandad using.
This started me thinking. I hunted everywhere and found it incredibly difficult to find him the perfect gift, so much so that I ended up having to import it. It made me wonder: just how many other farm-loving children would love to have their own toys and be “just like Grandad” or “just like Mummy and Daddy”?
And just like that, the dream of Croft Farm Toys was born.
A Name from the Heart
We needed a name, and we didn’t have to look far. We combined the name of our house, ‘Croft’, with the ‘Farm’ we live on and love. It felt right instantly—a name that rooted our new idea right here at home.
With the amazing support of my mum (Gill!) and the rest of the family, we decided to take the leap. We started our new business by stocking well-known, quality farm toy brands that we trusted, like Rolly and Britains.
From a Sketch to Our Very Own Toy
But there was always a secret passion in the background: I had always dreamed of designing toys.
One day, I sketched out a farmyard, with lots of help and guidance from my three expert consultants (my boys!). I nervously shared the drawing with a family friend, and in a moment we’ll never forget, they gave us the opportunity to turn that sketch into a reality.
It was a huge learning curve, but just 12 months later, the first product of our very own range of toys was here! Holding that first toy—something that started as an idea at our kitchen table—was an unbelievable feeling.
We’re not stopping there. We have more products on the way, and our mission is simple. We want to keep children’s love, interest, and passion for farming going for generations to come, and we believe the best way to do that is through playing!
Thank you for being part of our story.
— Jenny & the family at Croft Farm Toys