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Family-friendly things to do at Buckland Abbey

A child dressed in a crown and rainbow wings in the foreground watches another child and an adult run around
Family fun whatever the weather at Buckland Abbey | © National Trust Images/Sophie Bolesworth

Whether it's a woodland adventure, an amazing story of life on the high seas or a tasty treat from the cafe, there's something for all the family to enjoy at Buckland Abbey this autumn.

Your visit at a glance

A girl in a pink coat looks happy as she throws fallen leaves into the air
Autumn fun at Buckland Abbey | © Barry Mitchell

What's on for families

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A child stands on wooden balance beams in the play area
Fun for all the family at Buckland's natural play area | © Steven De'Ath

The Natural Play Area

The play area at the start of the red walk on Buckland's estate is a fantastic place for little adventurers to explore and let off steam.

Complete with stepping stones, balance beams, climbing logs and much more, all of the timber used in creating this playground was reclaimed from fallen trees on the estate, and crafted by the Ranger staff and volunteers.

Why not bring a picnic too?

The area can be used by children of all ages, although little ones might need a bit of help with some of the equipment and we would ask that children are never left unsupervised.

It's a bit tricky getting a buggy to the play area, so you might prefer to bring a baby carrier if you're planning to head up there on your visit, and please be aware that the nearest facilities are back at the main property. 

50 things to do before you're 11 3/4

Here are some of the activities you might be able to complete at Buckland Abbey. Have you ticked any more off the list?

A father lifts up their small child so they can reach fruit growing on a tree. The background is hazy with mist on an autumnal day.
Admiring apple trees | © National Trust Images/Arnhel de Serra

No.1 Get to know a tree

There are thousands of trees on the estate, including some awesome oaks, beautiful beeches and fabulous firs. Can you guess how old some of them might be, and imagine what stories they could tell?

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The exterior of Abbot's tower at Buckland Abbey in the evening light

Discover more at Buckland Abbey

Find out when Buckland Abbey is open, how to get here, the things to see and do and more.

Plan your visit

You might also be interested in

Visiting Buckland Abbey and Great Barn 

Explore the abbey which is part museum, part house, and filled with treasures. Step inside the medieval Great Barn: a tithe barn unchanged since it was built centuries ago.

View of Buckland Abbey with a green lawn in front and trees, with one tree turning red and brown in autumn, Devon

Buckland Abbey's estate 

Discover Buckland's ancient woodland on one of three colour coded routes. With abundant wildlife and far reaching views, it's a peaceful and fascinating place to enjoy.

Avenue of autumn trees in evening light at Buckland Abbey, Devon

Visiting Buckland Abbey with your dog 

Buckland Abbey is a two pawprint rated place. There are plenty of dog-friendly walks through the woodland and countryside to explore and dogs are welcome to relax in the Ox Yard Café.

Two large dogs on leads held by two people on a path at Lanhydrock, Cornwall, with grass and fallen autumn leaves beyond

Buckland Abbey's gardens 

From beautiful blooms to bountiful harvests, the gardens at Buckland Abbey are full of colour and seasonal interest. Soak up the history of this special place as you admire the planting, or simply enjoy the peace and tranquillity as you sit a while on one of the benches.

Swathe of yellow Rudbeckia in the foreground in the kitchen garden with fruit trees at Buckland Abbey, Devon

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