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Family-friendly things to do at Newark Park

A family playing jump rope in a woodland setting
Enjoy fun family days out at Newark Park | © Sarah Davis

There's plenty for families to enjoy every season at Newark Park. Explore the woodlands, let off steam in the play area, say hello to our resident peacocks, or take part in one of our family-friendly activities.

'We're Going on a Bear Hunt' Family Trail now opening Saturday 5 September

Due to unforeseen circumstances, we have had to delay the launch of the 'We're Going on a Bear Hunt' family trail at Newark Park. It will now open on Saturday 5 September, NOT Friday 4 September as originally planned. We apologise for any disappointment or inconvenience this delay causes.

    'We're Going on a Bear Hunt' family trail

    Saturday 5 September - Sunday 15 November

    We're Going on a Bear Hunt is coming to Newark Park this autumn. The award-winning animation, based on the much-loved picture book, will be brought to life through a series of interactive installations. Get ready to swish, splash and squelch your way through this new sensory trail as you search for the bear.

    For more information visit We're Going On A Bear Hunt at Newark Park

    We're Going On A Bear Hunt © Bear Hunt Films Ltd 2026. Licensed by Walker Productions Ltd on behalf of Bear Hunt Films Ltd.​

    An illustration of a family and dog walking across a field
    Will you find the bear? | © We’re Going On a Bear Hunt © Bear Hunt Films Ltd 2026​

    Sculpture exhibition: 'New Work at Newark'

    Daily until 1 November

    Families with older children may enjoy exploring the work of five local artists in this engaging sculpture exhibition. Inspired by the people, history and landscape of Newark Park, the artworks include tactile carved wooden heads, ceramic birds suspended in mid-flight, a series of illustrated terracotta tiles, a multi-media installation, and a collection of Tudor-inspired characters representing "peacocking".

    The sculptures offer plenty of opportunities for discussion, discovery and inspiration, encouraging families to share ideas and ask questions.

    For more information, visit Discover 'New Work at Newark Park'

    Family-friendly things to do in the garden

    Play field

    Courageous adventurers can take on the challenges of the folly play area, cross the crinkle-crankle steps, and peek behind the fairy doors. Or enjoy the wide open space to play family favourites like Grandmother's Footsteps and What's theTime, Mr Wolf? 

    Traditional garden games

    In the warmer months, try your hand at traditional lawn games like croquet and boules. You'll find these by the tea pavilion.

    Perfect picnic spots

    Take your pick! There are so many beautiful spots to spread a blanket and enjoy the sights and sounds of Newark. 

    Springo-bingo activity cards

    Collect your bingo card from Visitor Reception and step into the garden and try our senses bingo. Wander at your own pace. Listen for hidden sounds. Follow unexpected smells. Notice small details you might usually pass by. Each square on your bingo card offers a new way to explore. See how many you can spot. 

    '50 things to do before you're 11¾'

    Here are some of our favourite '50 things' you can do at Newark: 

    Family-friendly things to do in the house 

    Dressing-up

    In the Buff Bedroom on the first floor of Newark House you’ll find dressing up where you can style yourself as a Tudor lord or lady. Find out about the diet of a Tudor and what foods they did or didn't recommend and have a go at creating your own Tudor menu. 

    Animal Spotter trail

    Animals have played a big part in Newark's history, from its roots as an ancient deer park to Bob Parson's pet Great Danes. Pick up a free leaflet from the entrance hall and see if you can spot all the animals inside the house.  

      A small child sitting on the grass and playing with ribboned hoops
      Enjoy Summer of Play at Newark Park | © Sarah Davis

      Planning a visit? Good to know

      • Accessible WC with baby change facilities at main car park; additional WC in  the house
      • Hard surface paths - level around house but sloped in the garden
      • Tea pavilion serving hot and cold drinks and snacks
      • Plenty of space for picnics
      • There is no gift shop at Newark but there are two second-hand book shops, one with a reading corner
      • Only registered assistance dogs are allowed in the house
      • Pushchairs are not allowed inside the house
      • There are peacocks around the grounds
      2 walkers and a dog in the estate with wild garlic at Newark Park, Gloucestershire

      Discover more at Newark Park

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

      Plan your visit

      You might also be interested in

      We're Going on a Bear Hunt at Newark Park 

      'We’re Going on a Bear Hunt' is coming to Newark Park this autumn. Get ready to swish, splash and squelch your way through the new family trail to find the bear.

      An illustration of a family and dog walking across a field

      Visiting Newark Park with your dog 

      Newark Park is a two pawprint rated place. Find out all you need to know to enjoy Newark Park’s garden and countryside with your dog.

      2 walkers and a dog in the estate with wild garlic at Newark Park, Gloucestershire

      Things to do in Newark Park's garden and estate 

      The garden and parkland are an ideal place to get outdoors in nature. The area also provides the diverse habitat for a variety of creatures and birdlife.

      A flower border in late summer with a bench and brick garden wall at Newark Park

      Eating and shopping at Newark Park 

      Find out where to grab some refreshments and shop for second-hand books during your visit to Newark Park.

      Groups of people enjoying drinks outside the tea room at Newark Park

      Family-friendly places to visit 

      Looking for a family day out that'll keep everyone entertained? Find things to do with the kids at the places we care for near you.

      A family plays near the sun sculpture in the centre of the parkland, Lacock Abbey. It is summer, the sun is shining and the children smile towards the camera.

      ‘50 things to do before you're 11¾’ 

      Plan fresh-air activities, discover facts about nature and wildlife or learn a new skill with our suggestions for ‘50 things to do before you’re 11¾’.

      Children bug hunting amongst coastal grass.

      Family-friendly places in Gloucestershire and the Cotswolds 

      Gardens, family trails and winding walks await in Gloucestershire and the Cotswolds. Plan your day out for a memorable visit that the whole family will enjoy.

      Visitors playing with a giant outdoor game at Wimpole Estate, Cambridgeshire on a lawn with trees and a building in the background

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