Family-friendly things to do at Hidcote

Mother and children kneeling by a lily pond at Hidcote, Gloucestershire — Enjoying nature together by the lily pond at Hidcote | © Trevor Hart

With winding paths, hidden garden rooms and space to run, Hidcote is a fantastic place for families to explore together. There’s lots to enjoy throughout the year, from trails and craft activities during school holidays to wildlife spotting and peaceful picnics in beautiful surroundings.

Seasonal trails and events

Discover themed trails and seasonal craft sessions, giving children plenty of ways to learn, play and get creative throughout the year.

Summer Holiday Trail: ‘A Place That Whispers: A Garden Adventure’

18 July to 2 September

Be transported to a world of magic, myth and fairy tale at Hidcote this summer with an activity trail inspired by Anderson and Low’s 'A Place That Whispers' exhibition.

Find out more about A Garden Adventure trail

See all events at Hidcote

Young children with croquet equipment on Great Lawn at Hidcote — Sunny summer days out at Hidcote | © Trevor Ray Hart

Outdoor games

In the summer, make the most of the garden lawns with a game of croquet, or head to the tennis court which is free to use.

(If you have any spare tennis rackets at home, we’d love to receive donations so more visitors can get involved.)

Sensory and explorer bags

Borrow our sensory and explorer bags from Visitor Reception to help bring the garden to life. Designed to encourage curiosity and discovery, they’re packed with fun, hands-on items to help children explore textures, colours, wildlife and the natural world in their own way.

Nature spotting

Hidcote is full of wildlife waiting to be discovered. Look out for frogs, toads and newts in the ponds, listen for red kites overhead, or see what you can spot in the orchards and Wilderness. You might even catch a glimpse of grass snakes or signs of badgers and squirrels.

Be sure to stop by the 'Insect Room' on your visit

You'll find this new area just off the Wilderness. Created by our Garden team, it’s designed to welcome more wildlife and give nature a helping hand. Discover different habitats, spark curiosity, pick up ideas for bringing nature into your own garden or outdoor space, and see what you can spot together.

Child blows into a blade of grass in their hands while an older adult looks on, standing outdoors in front of green foliage. — Make a grass trumpet together | © James Dobson

Family time together

Picnics and relaxing together

Bring a picnic and enjoy far-reaching views from the picnic area near the car park, or find a quiet corner in the garden to unwind together.

A place to slow down

There are plenty of quieter spots to pause and relax, including the Wilderness, orchards and Beech Allée. You will also also find a dedicated Silent Space in the Italian Shelter.

Local walks

If you’re feeling adventurous and you've energy to spare, why not explore one of our waymarked walks around the wider estate and nearby villages? Routes vary in length and difficulty - ask at Visitor Reception for details.

A toddler enjoying the summer at Hidcote, Gloucestershire — Exploring at Hidcote | © John Millar

Planning your family visit

Free entry for under 5s.
There are baby-changing facilities in the main toilet block near the café. Additional facillities are also available at the Plant Centre (when open).
Due to the nature of the paths and limited step-free areas, we recommend using baby carriers where possible, rather than prams and pushchairs.
Hip seats are available to borrow from Visitor Reception.
There is an accessible route covering around a third of the garden - just ask at Visitor Reception for a map.
Children's meals are available.
There’s no formal play area and we don't allow scooters, balls and bikes in the garden, but children will enjoy exploring and discovering nature across the site.
Dogs on short fixed leads are welcome at Hidcote.