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.
Family fun at Buckland Abbey
Write your own fairytale trail
15 February - 30 March, 10-4
Pick up a trail booklet and a pencil from visitor welcome and get creative. Follow the map to find all the writing spots and see what inspires your story along the way.
Normal admission applies, no need to book.
Children's Collage Workshop - Wild and Wonderful Gardens
17 February, 10am and 11.30am
Join local artist Grace Coombes from Linnet Workshops and create wonderfully colourful and creative collages inspired by the beautiful Buckland Abbey Estate.
Suitable for ages 4-16. Booking essential. £9 per child.
What's great for...
Toddlers and preschoolers:
Grab those wellies and splash in some puddles, or see if you can spot some springtime flowers in the garden. How many colours can you see?
Primary aged kids:
Join in with a creative collage workshop and make your own magical garden landscape using various materials and methods. We can't wait to see what you create!
Older children:
Enjoy a walk out in the grounds - do you feel inspired to write a story on the fairytale trail?
Play area closure
Please note that due to significant damage caused by Storm Darragh, the red and blue walks including access to the play area are currently closed for safety. Thank you for understanding.
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 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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