Discover more at Buckland Abbey
Find out when Buckland Abbey is open, how to get here, the things to see and do and more.
Family-friendly things to do at Buckland Abbey
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.
Your visit at a glance
-Free entry for under 5s
-Baby changing facilities
-Step free routes around the garden - please be aware that most paths are gravelled or slightly uneven with slopes
-Pocket money gifts in the shop
-Children's lunches available in the cafe
-High chairs available in the cafe
-Some parts of the yellow estate route are suitable for robust pushchairs
We welcome breastfeeding everywhere at Buckland Abbey. If there is anything you need such as a quiet space or hot water for bottle warming, please speak to a member of staff.
Spring into 2024
Blossom week
20 - 28 April, 10-5 daily
This spring, why not celebrate the beauty of blossom in Buckland's gardens? From a multi sensory display of crafted blossom in the Great Barn to Haiku writing, blossom bathing to a spotter trail, there's something for all ages to enjoy.
There's no extra charge for the activities, but normal admission will apply. The blossom displays are all over the gardens, so we'd recommend suitable footwear for outdoors. Most paths are accessible for pushchairs, just ask at Visitor Welcome for the best route to take.
Treelore trail
4 - 31 May, 10-5 daily
Enjoy a stroll, stomp or saunter on the yellow walk and learn about folklore, old remedies and hints and tips related to the trees on the estate.
The trail is about a mile long and you'll need sturdy footwear. Some sections can be accessed with pushchairs but the ground is very uneven in places so you may prefer to use a baby carrier if you have little ones with you.
Pick up a trail sheet from Visitor Welcome to take part. The trail is free but normal admission applies
To check opening times, please click here and scroll down to admissions.
What's great for...
Toddlers and preschoolers:
There's nothing better than a run around in the spring sunshine, so come and enjoy the colourful blossoms and some lovely fresh air!
Primary aged kids:
Can you use all of your senses on your visit to the blossom displays? Have a go at the spotter trail too and see what you can find in the garden this spring.
Older children:
Why not have a go at creating your own blossom Haiku, or learn more about the folklore surrounding Buckland's trees?
The Natural Play Area
Newly reopened for summer 2023, 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 and enjoy the views across the Tavy Valley while you eat 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 at Buckland Abbey
With hundreds of acres of woodland to explore, there are so many activities to try out at Buckland. Here are a few of our favourite ideas:
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?
No.6 Go welly wandering
Raining? No problem. Grab your wellies and splash through some puddles, or listen to the raindrops on the leaves overhead.
No.34 Discover wild animal clues
The woodland at Buckland is home to all kinds of wonderful wildlife. Can you look for footprints and listen for calls? Maybe if you are very lucky you'll even spot some of the beautiful animals and birds yourself.
No.48 Keep a nature diary
Now you've had an adventure, why not record your discoveries in a special notebook? You could draw what you have seen and heard, maybe even find a special leaf or stick to remind yourself of your amazing day?
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