A family day out at Dunham Massey

Children enjoying the park in autumn at Dunham Massey, Cheshire — Children enjoying the park at Dunham Massey, Greater Manchester | © National Trust Images/ James Beck

From adventures outdoors, to history and wildlife, plan a family day out at Dunham Massey. A short drive from Manchester and on the edge of rural Cheshire, find out what's on for families all year round.

Planning your family visit

Arrive ready for the weather to enjoy a walk amongst fallow deer and ancient trees.
Find out about the fallow deer and medieval park before you arrive. Become a nature champion and help us keep our deer wild by not feeding them, and picnicking in the garden only.
The vast majority of the paths in Dunham Massey are flat and accessible for buggys and pushchairs.
Toilet and baby-changing facilities are available at the Stables and Visitor Centre. There is also a Space to Change facility in the Visitor Centre, which includes a ceiling track hoist, changing bench and wash & dry toilet. Accessible via the National Key Scheme 'RADAR' key or by asking one of our Welcome Team.
Bike riding is only for children aged under five inside the park. Older cyclists may want to take advantage of the bike park areas in the car park and by the North Park.
The café in the Visitor Centre and Stables Restaurant in the Stables building carry child-friendly meals and snacks, catering to a variety of dietary requirements. Check specifics via phone 0161 941 1025 or email dunhammassey@nationaltrust.org.uk.
Don't miss the Dunham Massey shop - one of the National Trust's largest with a great selection of children's books, toys and treats.
Look out for seasonal activities happening at Dunham Massey. There's always something to do with the kids. Ask at the visitor centre for more information.

A Trail of Tails: Christmas in the House

An artistic idea conceived and produced by Walk the Plank.

This Christmas, the circus has come to Dunham Massey, but the animals have escaped and are running wild through the house.

The tree has been disturbed, presents have disappeared, and there are mysterious clues to uncover. Follow the footprints, search the rooms and track down all the missing gifts to save Christmas on this adventure for the whole family.

This event is included in Whole Property admission (House, Park and Gardens ticket). Free for National Trust members.

No booking needed, last entry 3pm.

Please note a shorter route will be open especially for this new event. The rest of the house will be closed for specialist conservation and winter cleaning from 1 November. The core house route will reopen on Monday 15 February 2027.

Find out more

A Trail of Tails: Christmas in the House at Dunham Massey | © Illustration by Abby Hobbs

See all events at Dunham Massey

Visiting with younger children

Dunham is a young explorer’s dream. Waterbirds are often the first wildlife to welcome little ones as they approach the moat, the view of the house across the water is a highlight for parents and carers.

The Mini Park Loop is a great way to keep little legs active. Looping around a small section of the park, this pushchair-friendly walk will give you a flavour of all this nature haven has to offer. The route is circular so starts and ends at the same place.

A day out with teens

Dunham’s many miles of parkland paths weave through this special place, known for its precious deadwood ecology and mass of ancient trees. Most of these wooden giants grow happily, while others have fallen. Fallen trees and branches by the side of well-trodden paths are perfect for amateur climbers and aspiring den builders.

A walk around the parkland reveals mysterious buildings and structures, almost frozen in time. Challenge older kids to take on the pathway around the edge of the parkland and consider what these buildings may once have been?