Family-friendly things to do at Mottisfont

An adult taking a photo of three children sitting in a life-size model of an old car — Don't forget to get your photo taken in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang | © National Trust Images/Megan Taylor

There's plenty for the whole family to enjoy on a visit to Mottisfont. From vibrant family art exhibitions in the summer to fun-filled half-term activities during the school holidays, including our Wild Play area, there's something for everyone. With ample space to run, jump, and play, Mottisfont offers an ideal setting for family adventures at any time of year.

Chitty Chitty Bang Bang exhibition

Till Sunday 2 November

Head into a magical adventure in the house – we're inviting visitors to step into the pages of one of Britain’s most beloved children’s stories, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, in a playful exhibition celebrating its 60-year legacy. From the very first illustrations by John Burningham to brand new artworks by Steve Antony and Thomas Gilbert, visitors will discover how this magical car has been brought to life across generations. This imaginative exhibition takes you through colourful rooms bursting with artwork, interactive displays, and inventive fun.

A Chitty Chitty Bang Bang adventure

Family-friendly exhibition

The Chitty Chitty Bang Bang exhibition is designed with families in mind, offering a fun and welcoming space for all ages to enjoy together. Large-scale illustrations and artwork displayed at children’s eye level invite younger visitors to connect with the story visually. Cosy reading areas with books allow families to dive deeper into the tale. And don’t miss the chance to snap a photo in our custom-built, front end of a Chitty Chitty Bang Bang-inspired car – the perfect family-friendly selfie spot!

Two children in colourful romper suits collect autumn leaves and put them in a mini wheelbarrow — Children collecting leaves with mini wheelbarrows and rakes in the park at Mottisfont, Hampshire | © National Trust Images/Megan Taylor

Agent 11¾ Spy Family Trail

4 October-2 November

Step into the secret world of spies on Mottisfont’s exciting new trail, inspired by the most famous of all fictional spies, James Bond.

Ian Fleming, creator of the James Bond series, was a frequent visitor to Mottisfont. This October, children of all ages can join the secret service, with a trail inspired by the dashing intelligence officer.

There’ll be plenty of undercover challenges, from cracking codes to creating disguises, to fire the imagination and motivate the next generation to join His Majesty’s Secret Service.

No booking needed, free event (normal admission applies).

Thinking ahead to Christmas?

22 November-4 January

This Christmas, Mottisfont sets the stage for a festive pantomime twist on the classic tale of Cinderella as the house is transformed with theatrical flair and seasonal sparkle.

Join us for a magical day out, as this tale as old as time is brought to life in the glorious setting of Mottisfont. Book a day for all the family, including any fairy godmothers.

More family-friendly things to do in the gardens

Wild play

Our Wild Play area includes three large wooden structures built for climbing, balancing and exploring. Have fun ducking and diving through different entry and exit points. The play area gets very muddy during periods of wet weather, so come dressed for mess.

Den building

The den-building area from February half-term is staying up a little longer. Using the branches and leaves provided, families can build their own amazing den and create the perfect space. It could be a hidden fortress, a secret hideout or something entirely unique.

Playing in the gardens

Wooden bridges and a rushing river make Mottisfont one of the country's top destinations for playing Pooh sticks – challenge your family to a game when you visit. Ball games and frisbees are welcome on the paddock areas.

'50 things' activities

Why not try some of the '50 things to do before you're 11¾' challenges? From rolling down a hill to cloud watching, there's something for every young explorer.

Planning your family visit

Here's all the information you need at a glance, to make the most of your family day out at Mottisfont:

Baby-changing facilities in access-friendly toilets are located at the Welcome Centre, stables, lower corridor in the house and the kitchen garden
Pushchairs are welcome everywhere except inside the house. There are gently-sloping areas and wide pathways around much of the grounds. Pathways are uneven in some places so sturdy, all-terrain tyres are recommended
Drinks, snacks and light lunches with family-friendly options are available from the café and additional outlets, with indoor and outdoor seating areas and picnic benches around the grounds
Breastfeeding is welcome anywhere around the property.

There's no need to book, but Mottisfont may get very busy during school holidays and bank holidays. Mornings tend to be busier than afternoons. If you have the flexibility, a weekday visit is generally quieter than a weekend, even during school holidays. If you can only visit over the weekend, Saturdays are usually less busy than Sundays.

What do you need to know when visiting the garden?

Toddler push-along bikes operated by a parent/guardian are welcome, but please be aware that bikes, trikes and scooters are not allowed
There are areas of open water around the garden and grounds so close supervision is strongly advised
Please don't bring windbreakers, gazebos, pop-up tents, parasols or barbecues.