Family fun at Kingston Lacy

There is always lots going on at Kingston Lacy to help you spend time together as a family. Take your bike for a spin along the Woodland Trail, let imaginations run wild in our woodland play area and have a go at some '50 things’ challenges in the garden and parkland.

This summer

This summer we are encouraging you to get closer to nature. Follow the Woodland Walk to embark upon a self-led family nature trail and see if you can ‘spot a nature rainbow’ or ‘brave it barefoot’. Don’t forget to stop at our Woodland Play Area to test your balance and climbing skills.

Family activities for outdoor adventures

We've got lots of fun activities to try on your next family adventure. Discover wildlife at the places in our care using our handy spotter guides or have a go at activities inspired by the colours and sounds of nature.

'50 things' at Kingston Lacy

From wild art to cloud watching there are heaps of activities on the '50 things' to do before you're 11¾' list to keep you busy at Kingston Lacy all year round. Visit the shepherds hut at the start of the Woodland Walk to pick up your ‘50 things’ booklet. The challenges listed below are some of our favourites - why not have a go when you next visit?

Two young boys looking up, stood inside a tree

No 1. Get to know a tree

The acres of wooded parkland at Kingston Lacy make it perfect for getting to know more about trees. Explore trees throughout the seasons, from buds on branches to falling leaves in autumn. Some trees have hollows so big that you can climb inside, others have smaller holes that are just as good for exploring. Touch the bark, look up through the branches and listen to the wind rustling the leaves.

Children riding their bicycles in the park at Kingston Lacy, Dorset

No 11. Explore on wheels

Feel the wind in your hair on a family bike ride along the Woodland Trail, which is a relatively flat, circular cycle route. You will see some stunning views of the house and discover previously inaccessible parts of the parkland.

Cloud watching at Kingston Lacy in Dorset

No 33. Go cloud watching

With imagination you can create whole worlds from the shapes you see in the sky. You can do this anywhere at Kingston Lacy but top spots include the South Lawn and the specially designed leaning posts along the Woodland Walk.

No 44. Watch a bird

Head out along the Woodland Walk to find the bird hides and feeders. To be a successful bird watcher, you'll need to be as quiet as a mouse while you keep a look out for our feathered friends. What will you spot?

New to 50 Things?

If you're new to the 50 things challenge or want to find some inspiration for more places to visit, take a look at the full list and open the door to a world of family fun.

Cycling

Woodland Trail

Venture off the beaten track on the 3 mile Woodland Trail at Kingston Lacy. You can walk the route or take your bike for a spin. The trail is dog friendly (on a short lead) and suitable for buggies and adapted wheelchairs so the whole family can join in. For little legs there is a shorter route of 1.5 miles (30mins – 1 hour). Why not stop for a picnic and see how much wildlife you can spot along the way?

Download the route

Family friendly checklist

Free entry for under 5s.
Baby-changing facilities in access friendly toilets.
Buggy friendly route around the Woodland Trail.
Play area on the Woodland Trail
Children’s menu available from the Stables Café.
Pocket money gifts and children's books available in the shop.

A herbaceous border at Kingston Lacy in Dorset — The herbaceous borders at Kingston Lacy explode with colour in the summer months

Kingston Lacy Dorset

The garden at Kingston Lacy

Summer in the garden at Kingston Lacy means an abundance of life, colour and produce. Enjoy taking in the sights, sounds and scents of this wonderful season when you next visit.

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