What's coming up at Kingston Lacy
There's always plenty to do at Kingston Lacy. As we come into summer the garden's borders fill with colour and the parkland turns into an orchid- and ox-eye daisy-filled meadow. There's a show-stopping ivory-inlaid cabinet to admire, guided garden tours and outdoor theatre.
Making a day of it
We're moving into the summer and Kingston Lacy is the perfect place to while away a whole day. From glorious garden to amazing art to treats in the cafe, you can find plenty to fill your time.
Get out and about
We've got a variety of walks planned this year. Every month sees a sociable group meet for a stroll of around 3-4 miles that normally ends in the cafe – you'll discover a different bit of the parkland every time. There are also guided walks going further afield, taking you around some of the most interesting areas of the estate from Badbury Rings to Holt Heath to discover the history and nature on this beautiful bit of Dorset.
Rani Lacy: revealing an Indian treasure
One of the National Trust's treasures has come back to Kingston Lacy after conservation. We're exploring the craftsmanship and creativity surrounding the Viskhapatnam cabinet in an exhibition that explains the secrets discovered during conservation, displays related items from other National Trust properties and includes specially commissioned installations.
Discover more 1 June-23 October.
Pokémon TCG Mega Evolution Trail
Calling Pokémon fans new and old! Get active outdoors on our Pokémon Trading Card Game Mega Evolution Trail. Team up as a family to search the gardens for each Mega Evolution Pokémon, discover their powers and complete your own challenges.
Are you ready for a mega adventure?
Book now for summer theatre
Pack a picnic and a rug, and prepare to be moved and enthralled by three very different performances this summer. We welcoming back three outstanding theatrical companies, each bringing a new show to Kingston Lacy.
First up is The Duke's Theatre Company, which invites you to rediscover Shakespeare's star-crossed lovers in the timeless love story that is Romeo & Juliet (24 June). Then join The Lord Chamberlain's Men for one of the most captivating and thrilling plays ever written: Shakespeare's Othello (16 and 17 July).
And finally one for all the family: Illyria is back with a retelling of the classic story of Pinocchio, the wooden puppet hoping to become a real boy (7 August).
Creative workshops in 2026
We've got a whole line up of workshops and one-day courses for you to try, but be quick – these workshops sell out fast.
Indian block printing workshop, 20 Sep and 10 Oct (sold out)
Discover the rhythmic craft of Indian block printing at this afternoon workshop that will teach you how to build pattern, layer colour, and create your own hand-printed textiles. Booking essential, tickets £45
Smartphone photography workshop, 11 Jul (sold out) and 26 Sep
Learn how to get the most out of your smartphone camera. From lighting and depth of field to composition and editing, you'll pick up all kinds of tips and tricks with lots of fun along the way. The July workshop is sold out, but there are still a few spaces for September. Booking essential, tickets £25
Introduction to Reduction Linocut, 3 Oct
Missed out on the May workshop? You've got another chance to book in October. It's perfect for both beginners and those looking to enhance existing skills. Booking essential, tickets £85
Take a guided garden tour
Interested in finding out more about the history, maintenance and development of this little slice of heaven? There are a variety of guided walk-and-talks on different aspects of the garden – you don't need to book and there's no charge, so have a look and see which one takes your fancy...
Discover flower-filled meadows
...or just head out for a stroll to drink in the colour and beauty all around. There's plenty of shade under Kingston Lacy's magnificent trees or in the Fernery, while the Japanese Garden and parkland are filled with wild flowers. Take home a little bit of inspiration from the herbaceous borders in the Kitchen Garden.
Looking ahead to an inspiring summer
Down in the Kitchen Garden from mid July to September there'll be a field full of play equipment, activities and adventures ready and waiting every day. Build your own fort with the giant blue blocks, invent a drama and perform it at the puppet theatre or pick out a bouncy strawberry and challenge your friends to a race.
There are also lots of pop up events from circus skills to bubble play and craft activities to dance parties. Grab a hat and book a play date with your favourite people. With the permanent play area and a kiosk selling hot and cold drinks and light refreshments as well as space to spread out a rug for your own picnic, it's a great day out.
Make this a summer to remember for all the family – check out Upcoming events for more information.
You may also be interested in
Discover the garden at Kingston Lacy
Relax and wander the gardens to enjoy seasonal interest at any time of year, with plenty of space for children to run, skip and play, and spaces to stop along the way.
Family-friendly things to do at Kingston Lacy
Discover all the things to do on a family day out at Kingston Lacy.
Eating and shopping at Kingston Lacy
Sample the delicious menu at the Stables Café or visit the National Trust shop to browse a wide range of gifts, souvenirs and local produce. There's also a second-hand book store stocking a huge selection of titles, old and new.
