Setting a New Standard for Rabbit Welfare: Our Project at Bucklebury Farm

Last year, we were commissioned to design and build a series of outdoor rabbit enclosures. What began as an exciting project quickly became something far more meaningful when we discovered the client was Bucklebury Farm—an established visitor attraction dedicated to animal welfare and education.

Bucklebury Farm was in the process of upgrading its rabbit housing to meet the latest recommendations set out by the Rabbit Welfare Association & Fund (RWAF). Their goal was not only to improve the living conditions for their own rabbits, but also to set an example for visitors and rabbit owners alike.

Designed with Welfare at the Core We were tasked with building three bespoke rabbit housing units, each carefully designed to meet strict welfare specifications. Every detail was chosen with safety, durability, and rabbit wellbeing in mind:

Stainless steel mesh for enhanced safety and longevity, offering a more secure alternative to traditional galvanised mesh
13mm x 13mm mesh spacing to effectively prevent vermin from entering the enclosures
16-gauge wire to provide robust protection against predators
Generous 3m x 2m footprints, aligning with RSPCA welfare standards and allowing rabbits the space they need to move, explore, and behave naturally

These enclosures go far beyond the small hutches commonly found in large pet stores. Instead, they reflect a growing understanding that rabbits require significantly more space and enrichment to live healthy, happy lives.

Supporting a Wider Welfare Campaign

The builds formed part of a broader campaign at Bucklebury Farm to raise awareness about proper rabbit care. A key initiative introduced alongside the new enclosures was the “Don’t Bug Bunnies” policy. This approach encourages respectful interaction, helping to prevent stress, fear, and potential injury in rabbits—issues that are often overlooked in public settings. By combining improved housing with education, the farm is actively challenging outdated perceptions and promoting higher standards of care.

A Milestone for Our Team

Bucklebury Farm is part-owned by Pippa Middleton, and being selected for this project was a proud moment for our team. More importantly, it marked the beginning of an ongoing relationship with the RWAF. As a result of this work, we are now proud to be recognised as RWAF-approved suppliers of rabbit housing—a reflection of our commitment to quality, safety, and animal welfare.

Looking Ahead

This project represents more than just three enclosures—it’s part of a larger shift in how rabbits are cared for and understood. We’re proud to have contributed to a project that not only improves the lives of animals but also helps educate the public on what responsible rabbit ownership truly looks like. If this project has one takeaway, it’s this: rabbits deserve space, safety, and respect—and with the right approach, we can help make that the standard, not the exception.