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Summer of Play at Smallhythe Place

Grab your magnifying glasses and channel your inner archaeologist at Smallhythe Place this summer.

  • Booking not needed
  • Free event (admission applies)

Get stuck in, dig, and more, as you channel your inner Indiana Jones at Smallhythe this summer.

Explore the garden and see what you can find hidden at different stations around the grounds.

Become a ship builder of ye-olde Smallhythe and discover the battle ships made here centuries ago.

But the fun doesn't stop there. Play a variety of lawn games, with skittles, hoopla and croquet on offer.

Summer of Play is sponsored by Starling Bank.

Times

Prices

Event ticket prices

This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.

Check admission prices

The basics

Meeting point

Go to Visitor Reception upon arrival to scan your membership cards, pay for entry and find our more about our Summer of Play offer

What to bring and wear

All activities are outdoors so please dress appropriately for the weather

Accessibility

All outdoor activities have step free access, but please note the terrain around the garden is uneven and can be slippery in wet weather.

Upcoming events

Event

'Dressing Lady Macbeth': An Exhibition (26 February - 2 November) 

Rediscover gems of the 1888 Lyceum Theatre production of 'Macbeth' in an intimate exhibition - a final chance to see Ellen Terry's Beetlewing dress before it is put away for conservation 'rest'.

Event summary

on
2 May to 2 Nov 2025
at
11:00 to 17:00
+ 135 other dates or times
Event

The Art of Scene Painting 

A display in our 17th century barn theatre celebrating the art of the scene painter. Wednesday - Sunday until 28 May 2025.

Event summary

on
2 May to 28 May 2025
at
11:00 to 17:00
+ 20 other dates or times
Event

The Most Perilous Comedie of Elizabeth I 

Experience the return of outdoor theatre at Smallhythe this May with The Three Inch Fools.

Event summary

on
24 May to 25 May 2025
at
19:00 to 21:00
+ 1 other date or time
Event

Little Women 

After last year’s successful tour of ‘Pride and Prejudice’, Smallhythe Place welcomes Hotbuckle back to perform the latest unique adaptation of classic novels.

Event summary

on
5 Jun to 6 Jun 2025
at
19:30 to 22:00
+ 1 other date or time