Bristol: A retired double-decker bus has been given a new lease of life as a mobile farm designed to educate people about where their food comes from.
The initiative, called the Pony Farm Bus, is the result of a collaboration between The Pony restaurant in Chew Magna and food distributor Arthur David. Together, they have transformed the vehicle, donated by First Bus, into a unique classroom on wheels that will visit schools and community groups across the region.
The bus is equipped with a range of features aimed at making food education both interactive and engaging. Inside, it houses a greenhouse and a hydroponics system to demonstrate modern growing techniques. There is also a kitchen, dining space, and a demonstration area where participants can take part in workshops on food and cooking.
Josh Eggleton, owner of The Pony restaurant and one of the project’s driving forces, said the goal was to connect people with food in an enjoyable and memorable way.
“We want to create learning opportunities – but the main thing is to incite a sense of fun and purpose,” Eggleton explained.
The idea comes at a time when many families and schools are seeking ways to inspire healthier eating habits and increase awareness of sustainability. Organizers believe that by showing children and adults how food is grown and prepared, the Pony Farm Bus can help bridge the gap between farm and fork.
Community groups and schools will be able to book visits from the bus, where students can take part in practical lessons on growing vegetables, cooking simple meals, and understanding the journey of ingredients from soil to plate.
Representatives from Arthur David, who provide fresh produce to businesses across the region, said the project reflects their long-term commitment to education and sustainability. “This is about giving people a chance to engage with food in a way that feels tangible and exciting,” a spokesperson noted.
The use of hydroponics on the bus is expected to be a highlight for young learners, showing how plants can thrive without soil using only water and nutrients. Combined with cooking workshops, the program offers a holistic approach to food education that blends science, nutrition, and creativity.
For Eggleton and his team, the transformation of an everyday bus into a rolling farm and classroom represents more than just innovation – it is about fostering curiosity. “If a child steps onto this bus and leaves with a spark of interest in growing or cooking, then we’ve succeeded,” he said.
The Pony Farm Bus is expected to begin touring schools and community centers later this year, bringing its mobile mix of farming, cooking, and fun to audiences of all ages.
