Family-friendly things to do at Glendurgan Garden

Family at Glendurgan Garden | © John Millar

Whether you're sketching in the Apple Shed or getting lost in the maze, there are plenty of activities to keep the whole family entertained and help you create great memories together. Find out what's on offer and the details you need to plan your visit.

Planning your family visit

If you're planning a day out with the family at Glendurgan here is some useful information

Family events at Glendurgan

Looking for something to do with the kids? Get closer to nature and discover Glendurgan in a new light with trails and activities for the whole family.

24 July - 2 September | 10.30am - 5pm

Play on repeat this summer. What will you do first?

From navigating the twists and turns of the historic maze to soaring through the air on the Giant’s Stride, there is adventure around every corner.

Little explorers can unleash their creativity with nature crafts in the apple orchard, take on playful challenges and enjoy storytelling beneath the trees.

With hands-on activities, beachside fun and plenty of space to play, Glendurgan’s Summer of Play is the perfect family day out with no booking needed and just your imagination required.

Plan your Summer of Play here

Sponsered by Starling Bank.

See all events at Glendurgan

Things to do with your family in the garden

Visitors enjoying activities in the apple shed | © National Trust Images/Hilary Daniel

Get back to nature in the Apple Shed

Visit the Apple Shed in the orchard for nature-inspired activities like leaf rubbing and sketching. Discover the rich history of orchards and fruit production at Glendurgan, all while enjoying the peaceful orchard surroundings. Watch the busy insects dart by, and even have a go at trying on a beekeeping suit!

Two visitors in a thatched hut in the centre of the maze at Glendurgan — Visitors explore the maze at Glendurgan | © National Trust Images/Chris Lacey

Attempt the maze

If you are feeling adventurous, head to the centre of the garden and see who can be first to find their way to the thatched summerhouse at the heart of the cherry laurel maze. Following a five-year restoration project in, the maze is now ready to welcome the many families who come to enjoy its winding paths each year.

Children playing on the rope swing in the garden at Glendurgan, Cornwall | © National Trust Images/John Millar

Take a Giant's Stride

A simple but joyful rotating rope swing, the Giant’s Stride is perfect for family fun. Grab a handle, run faster and faster around the central pole, and you’ll start to take bigger and bigger strides, just like a giant! The more people joining in, the more fun it becomes. Like the maze, the Giant’s Stride is just as entertaining to watch as it is to try. This corner of the garden often rings with laughter from visitors enjoying this classic piece of play equipment. Can you take strides the size of a giant? Come and give it a go.

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Holiday cottages on the beach near Glendurgan Garden, Cornwall — Holiday cottages on the beach near Glendurgan Garden | © National Trust Images/James Dobson

Things to do with your family on the beach

At the bottom of the valley you can access Durgan Beach, and look out for the old Fish Cellar where volunteers will be selling tasty ice creams to enjoy.

The beach is never short on options for family activities. Try skimming a stone, build a sandcastle, or enjoy your picnic on the sand with the sounds of the sea hitting the shore.

Find out more about how to skim a stone at the National Trust's ‘50 things to do before you're 11¾’ activity list.