Things to see and do for families in Mottistone Gardens

Family walking through the gardens at Mottistone Manor and Gardens | © Paul Harris

Mottistone Gardens are a magical place for little ones to explore, with plenty of ways to keep them entertained. In the sheltered valley, mini explorers can discover the wonders of nature and burn off some energy as they try to find Red the squirrel and her 8 friends. We've ever-changing trails too, that mean visiting in any season brings something new to discover.

Easter Egg Hunt at Mottistone Gardens

2nd - 6th April 2026

Join us to enjoy the magic of spring at Mottistone Gardens’ traditional Easter fayre, where a host of charming wildlife characters are ready to guide you on an unforgettable adventure! Take part in Harry the Hare’s Hoopla, enjoy Sneak the Egg with Cookie the Cuckoo and help Bertie the Badger get his sett tidy for spring.

This year, some activities will also give visitors the chance to explore the Mottistone Estate beyond the gardens – a perfect way to discover hidden nooks, winding paths and even the ancient Longstone.

So pop on your bunny ears, grab your activity sheet to guide the way, and follow the trail around Mottistone's grounds to discover the 10 awesome activity stations. At the finish line, a yummy Easter egg (choose dairy chocolate, or vegan and Free From*) is waiting for you.

The full trail costs £3.50 per person.

*Vegan and Free From egg suitable for people with milk, egg, gluten, peanut and tree nut allergies

Harry's Hoopla activity at Mottistone Gardens Easter Adventures - Isle of Wight | © Laura McConnell

Planning your family visit

There is a free car park located next to the gardens. From here there is a short, 2 minute walk to Visitor Reception along a gravel path and down a few steps.
Baby changing facilities are available in the accessible toilet which is located by the entrance barn.
When tummies start to rumble, the tea garden makes a good pit stop. Here you’ll find sandwiches, soups, cakes and tasty treats.
Highchairs are available in the tea garden.
In the tea garden there is water to help-yourself to and child-friendly glasses.
There are lots of great spots for picnics around the gardens – the grassy lawns of the orchard are a favourite, and toddlers can run around here too, or there are plenty of benches and deckchairs dotted high and low around the grounds.
Pushchairs are welcome but there are some gravel paths and steps.
Dogs on leads are welcome throughout the gardens and there are water bowls for four-legged friends outside the shop and in the tea garden

Family-friendly things to do in the gardens

The grass lawns of the orchard provide a safe and secure environment for little ones to run around in. Here they can fly a kite, roll down the hill or kick off their shoes and feel the grass tickle their toes.

Just outside The Shack by the tea garden, little hands and minds can get creative with our architecture-building game, designing their own miniature structures while you relax with a cup of tea.

Follow Red the squirrel on her trail around the gardens and see if you can find all 8 of her friends. If you get stuck don't hesitate to ask a member of staff.