Family days out at Emmetts Garden

A woman and a child enjoy looking at daffodils in springtime. — Come on a nature-friendly visit with your family | © National Trust Images / Paul Harris

Enjoy the ever-changing beauty of the gardens, fresh air and wide-open views at Emmetts Garden. Check out the Wild play area for some imaginative outdoor fun and head to the Old Stables Tearoom for a drink or something to eat.

May half term

Geology Treasure Hunt

Saturday 25 May – Sunday 2 June 2024, 10 am – 4:30 pm

Join us as we celebrate 60 years since geologist Charles Boise entrusted Emmetts Garden to the National Trust with a prehistoric treasure hunt around our enchanting gardens. Discover the secrets of fossils, dinosaurs, and geology as you dig them up and follow the footprints left by mysterious dinosaurs. Trail costs £3 and includes a prize. Normal admission applies. Purchase at the Visitor Centre.

Geology Treasure Hunt: May Half Term Trail | National Trust

Outdoor Theatre: Persuasion by This is My Theatre

Saturday 1 June 2024, 7pm (doors from 6pm) to 8.30pm approx.

Bring chairs, blankets and picnics for this family-friendly, open air performance of Jane Austen's much-loved classic.

Anne Elliott is persuaded to reject Frederick Wentworth by her family and friends but when the Elliott's circumstances alter and Wentworth returns 8 years later, as a commended naval officer no less, old sparks are rekindled… But can either be convinced to give love a second chance? Older children will enjoy this truly unique adaptation!

Check prices and availability here

Family facilities

There are baby-changing facilities at the entrance to the site, next to the Visitor Centre, as well as at the Old Stables Tearoom. Please note that bikes and scooters are not suitable for the pathways at Emmetts Garden.

Wild play area

Get stuck into energetic adventures in the wild play area located just past the Old Stables Tearoom. Can you walk across the balance beams without falling off? Why not challenge each other to see who can build the biggest den? You might have spotted some exciting additions to the wild play area at Emmetts. Kids will love the new climbing frame, play net, mud kitchen and fairy ring of toadstools.

Picnics

The meadow makes the perfect spot for a picnic with glorious views over Ide Hill. Bring a blanket, or sit at one of the picnic tables, and relax with delicious food under sunny skies.