Educational visits to Gibside
Whether you’re looking to spark creativity, build confidence, encourage problem-solving skills or fill your lungs with fresh air, Gibside has everything you need for a group visit immersed in nature.
Activities we offer
The team at Gibside has developed a programme where groups of children and young people can explore freely, reconnect with nature, learn new skills and revive their love of learning. You can choose from a variety of self-led and volunteer-led activities or request to use the woodlands for your own activities.
Take a look at our activity offer and price guide.
We welcome all formal groups of young people to Gibside, including schools, universities, Brownies and Scouts. Our activities complement children's learning through different key stages, and for college and university students we offer outdoor space for team building and a place to expand their studies.
Seasonal information
- Autumn/winter terms Book to visit between September to March, for every student to receive a free, one-off family pass to Gibside.
- Spring/summer terms As the weather gets warmer group spaces become limited, it's recommended you book your trip by March to secure a place between April to July.
How to book
Email gibsideCYP@nationaltrust.org.uk
Booking is essential for all group visits as we have limited coach parking, lunch room facilities and equipment for groups.
Improving nature connectedness with Starling Bank
Starling Bank is working with National Trust to fund nature workshops for school children who otherwise struggle to access outdoor spaces. These workshops will provide opportunities for the children to experience nature first-hand and learn about how we can protect the environment and wildlife for future generations.
We’re passionate about giving children the opportunity to explore nature, by investing in a programme to bring nature to children from inner city schools who otherwise struggle to access it.
Education Group Access Pass
Why not make your school visit more affordable and take advantage of the Education Group Access Pass? Schools or education groups can benefit from an Education Group Access Pass, which gives the whole group free admission and parking at most of the places in our care for a year.
Frequently Asked Questions
When can we visit?
School visits take place during term-time Monday to Friday during opening hours. We provide half day and full day offers.
Do you provide lunch?
No, we recommend everyone brings a packed lunch for a full day visit.
How many students can we bring?
If your class has over 30 children we recommend splitting into two groups and joining a different activity in the morning, then swapping in the afternoon.
Do teachers need to take part in the activity sessions?
All activities are led by our staff and volunteers who can’t wait to work with your group. Please note, however, that the behaviour of the students remains your responsibility at all times.
You might also be interested in
How we're improving access to nature with Starling Bank
We've partnered with Starling Bank to improve access to nature for more than 1 million people and fund vital peatland conservation projects. Find out all the ways we're working with them through our three-year partnership.
Education Group Access Pass
If you’re planning educational group visits to National Trust places, then you could benefit from an Education Group Access Pass, which gives you free admission for a year.
Schools and Youth Groups
Discover formal and informal opportunities for education and learning for children and young people at Seaton Delaval Hall. There are cross-curricular opportunities to learn inside and out, for all ages all, with a fun day out too!
History of Gibside
The wealthiest heiress in Georgian times, horseback abductions, divorces and illegitimate children are just a part of Gibside’s incredible story.
Things to see and do at Gibside
Discover a much-celebrated Palladian church at Gibside, take a history tour, explore the estate and enjoy outdoor play for families.
Activities for children and families at Gibside
From exploring the nature playscape, to being king or queen of Strawberry Castle play area, there are plenty of ways for kids (and big kids) to stay entertained all day at Gibside.