Fifteen years ago, a little girl’s love for the films Charlotte’s Web and Babe sparked a family project that would go on to become one of Britain’s most celebrated ethical farm attractions.
This week, Kew Little Pigs Farm in Amersham, Buckinghamshire, marks its 15th anniversary, a milestone that its founder, Olivia Mikhail, describes as “beyond her wildest dreams.”
What began as a modest back garden venture in Kew, London, in 2010, when Olivia brought home a pair of pet pigs for her young daughter Eva, has since grown into a multi-award-winning visitor attraction and the UK’s leading ethical breeder of miniature pigs.
Today, Kew Little Pigs is home to dozens of happy, healthy pigs, all raised to the highest welfare standards and living out long, joyful lives as beloved pets or as part of the farm’s ambassador herd. The business is recognised nationally for promoting responsible pig ownership and championing animal welfare, while delighting tens of thousands of visitors each year with its hands-on educational experiences.
“When I first started Kew Little Pigs, I never imagined it would grow into something of this scale,” says Olivia, standing among her famously friendly herd at the farm’s Amersham site.
“It began because Eva fell in love with Charlotte’s Web and Babe. She was completely obsessed with pigs. I did some research and realised that, with the right approach and environment, pigs could make incredible companion animals. That’s how it all began, just one mum and her daughter with a shared dream and a couple of piglets in our back garden.”
That dream has since evolved into a thriving ethical enterprise employing a dedicated team of staff and welcoming visitors from all over the UK and beyond.
Kew Little Pigs has become a shining example of how animal-based attractions can thrive without compromising on welfare. Every aspect of the farm’s operation is underpinned by kindness, education, and ethical breeding.
Central to the farm’s philosophy is Olivia’s determination to set the highest standards in miniature pig breeding. Unlike many breeders, Kew Little Pigs operates on a welfare-first model. Pigs are not bred in large numbers for profit, and each piglet is socialised, health-checked, and carefully matched with responsible owners.
“Our pigs live long, full lives,” explains Olivia. “We never sell to anyone who isn’t ready for the commitment. These are intelligent, emotional animals, they deserve the same respect and consideration as any dog or cat.”
That ethos has earned the farm a loyal following and a string of accolades, from tourism awards to ethical business commendations. And the message is spreading further than ever before.
Earlier this year, Kew Little Pigs announced a new Brexit-busting European partnership with a like-minded ethical breeder in Ireland, the first of its kind since the UK’s departure from the EU.
The collaboration ensures best practice standards and welfare principles are shared across borders, helping to protect miniature pigs from irresponsible breeding and unregulated trade.
Beyond the farm gates, Kew Little Pigs’ educational outreach has transformed the way children connect with animals. Through its groundbreaking Pigs in Schools scheme, more than 100,000 schoolchildren across the UK have now had the chance to meet and care for pigs in person.
The programme helps schools set up their own small-scale “pig clubs”, supported by Kew Little Pigs, where pupils learn about animal care, empathy, and teamwork.
“The change you see in children after working with animals is incredible,” says Olivia. “It builds confidence, compassion, and responsibility. We’re so proud to be inspiring the next generation to care about animal welfare.”
Now, 15 years on, the business that started with Eva’s childhood fascination has come full circle as Eva, works alongside her mum helping to run the farm she inspired.
“It’s amazing to see how far we’ve come,” says Eva. “Growing up surrounded by pigs taught me so much about patience, empathy, and understanding animals. I feel really lucky to have been part of this journey, and I’m proud that we’ve stayed true to our values while growing so much.”
To mark its 15th anniversary, Kew Little Pigs is launching an innovative new mobile app, available now on all major app stores.
The app allows users to book experiences, learn about pig keeping, and even chat with ‘Pig Bot Blossom’, an AI-powered virtual pig who can answer everything from booking questions to fun facts about farm life.
“The app is another way of helping people connect with pigs, whether they’re planning a visit, learning about care, or just curious about these wonderful animals,” says Olivia. “Blossom the Pig Bot brings a bit of our farm’s fun, educational spirit straight into people’s hands.”
While Olivia admits the past 15 years have been a “rollercoaster,” she says the farm’s mission has never been clearer.
“Everything we do is rooted in kindness, to animals, to people, and to the planet. Ethical farming isn’t just a slogan; it’s a promise. I want Kew Little Pigs to stand as proof that when you put welfare first, success follows naturally.”
As for the future, Olivia hints at more community outreach, more international partnerships and the ‘sty’ really is the limit for Kew Little Pigs.
“Fifteen years ago, it was just me, Eva, and a couple of pigs,” she remembers. “Now it’s a family, a team, and a community of people who care deeply about animals. That’s what makes this anniversary so special, it’s not just our celebration, it’s everyone’s.”
Kew Little Pigs Farm is open year-round in Amersham, Buckinghamshire and to celebrate the anniversary the farm is offering 10% discount off a Pet and Play Session. Simply type in pigsdiscount24 at the online checkout when you book.
Visitors can meet the pigs, learn about ethical pig keeping, and book experiences via the new Kew Little Pigs app or at www.kewlittlepigs.com
“I joined the team in September of 2021 as a Farm Hand. This was my first proper job and the experience was very insightful as working with animals there is never a dull moment. I have always loved animals and have had many different animals growing up such as guinea pigs, rabbits, dogs and horses so I knew the animal industry was a career I would like to be involved in. Since joining Kew Little Pigs Farm I have had the opportunity to care for the animals and share my knowledge with all the customers that have visited the farm. I was promoted to Head Farm Hand in January 2023.
I look forward to my journey here at Kew Little Pigs Farm and hope to see you on the farm soon!”
