The transition from tourism on farms to farm tourism

The term farm-based tourism (FBT) is used in recent research by Ilbery, Bowler, Clark, Crockett and Shaw (1998), being conceptualized as an alternative farm enterprise (AFE) and viewed as one of seven possible pathways of farm business development. This article reviews the nature of farm tourism according to the literature, drawing on international examples, and illustrates some of the ways in which the 'product' has been categorized. The transition from tourism on the farm to farm tourism is discussed with reference to the sources of funding and advice available before a commentary on pluriactivity and gender issues. Farm tourism needs to be seen in the wider context of rural tourism given that it forms a key component of both the accommodation supply and many of the day attractions available.