Discover more at Newark Park
Find out when Newark Park is open, how to get here, the things to see and do and more.
Family-friendly things to do at Newark Park
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 holiday activities.
Summer of Play: 21 July–3 September
Summer of Play is back this year for brilliant days out with the kids over the school holidays. Step back in time and explore how children played in Tudor, Georgian and Victorian times as well the 1970s and 1980s. With themed games and activities, older visitors can rediscover old favourites and find new ones to try for the first time. With games in both the garden and the house, rain definitely won't stop play!
More details about Summer of Play will be coming soon so check back regularly and keep an eye on our social channels for updates.
Outdoor Theatre
Come and join The PantaloonsTheatre Company for two fantastic outdoor theatre performances, set on the lawns at Newark Park with the historic house as the background.
'Sherlock Holmes and the Hound of the Baskervilles'
Saturday 1 August, 6.30-8.30pm
Can detective duo, Holmes and Watson discover the deadly secret of the Baskerville family curse before it strikes again? Or are they barking up the wrong tree? Find out in this delightfully-inventive show that will have you yelping with excitement and howling with laughter. Features live music, audience interaction and more mystery than you can shake a magnifying glass at.
To find out more and book your tickets visit 'Sherlock Holmes and the Hound of the Baskervilles' at Newark Park
Shakespeare's 'Twelfth Night'
Thursday 6 August, 6.30-8.30pm
"Some are born great, some achieve greatness, and some have greatness thrust upon them"! Get in a fight. Cross-dress. Throw on some yellow stockings. Love can make you do the funniest things! The Pantaloons Theatre Company present their own brand of Shakespearean mayhem in the Bard's comedy of fools, duels and dual identities. Family-friendly fun with live music and audience participation.
To find out more and book your tickets visit Shakespeare's 'Twelfth Night' at Newark Park
Bug hotel workshops
Wednesday 19 and Thursday 20 August
Using lovely bug-friendly natural materials like bark, bamboo, pine cones and twigs, build a bug hotel in this fun, hands-on wokshop. We'll provide everything you need, including the bug hotel structure, materials, chicken wire and gloves (though you’re welcome to bring your own) and we will guide you step-by-step to build your bug hotel. Each bug hotel takes around 15 minutes to create and booking in advance is required to secure your place, but as these are drop-in workshops you can come along any time between 11am and 2pm.
To find out more and book your tickets visit Make my own Bug Hotel
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.
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
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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.
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.
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.
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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.
‘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’.
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.
