Fun for families at Rufford Old Hall

A family visiting the garden at Rufford Old Hall

There are plenty of things to do with the kids at Rufford Old Hall this spring. Explore the gardens to spot new blooms, become a nature detective or set your imaginations free in the woodland.

Walking in the garden at Rufford Old Hall

Visiting Rufford Old Hall: what you need to know 

The garden, grounds and tea room at Rufford Old Hall are open, Friday-Monday only. You will need to book your visit in advance. We've made a few changes, so please read this article carefully so that you know what to expect before booking your visit.

Top things for families to see and do
Children den building
Rufford Old Hall   Lancashire

Tick off your '50 things' list

Rufford is the perfect place to tick off your '50 things to do before you're 11¾' list, whether it's making mud pies (No.13), finding your way with a map (No.45) or making a home for bugs (No.36). Download the activity list and set off on your spring adventure.

See the activity list
Two young children looking through binoculars at Quarry Bank Mill, Cheshire

Become a nature detective

Spring is a fascinating time to go wildlife spotting in Rufford's garden and woodland. There are plenty of birds to see, including mallard ducks wandering around the garden, swallows looking for somewhere to nest, great spotted woodpeckers, and kingfishers on the canal. Look out for boxing hares in fields across the canal and speckled wood butterflies. Don't forget to pay a visit to our resident beehives, home to thousands of bees which are essential to keeping Rufford's garden healthy.

Girl running through daffodils in spring sunshine

Spot the signs of spring

Explore the changing seasons as spring bursts to life. Some of our favourite spring flowers to discover at Rufford include dazzling daffodils, beautiful bluebells and wonderful wisteria. Between April and May, make sure to venture into the orchard to marvel at the apple blossom. Why not bring a picnic or grab some takeaway treats from the Tea Room?