Discover more at Lyveden
Find out when Lyveden is open, how to get here, the things to see and do and more.
Family-friendly things to do at Lyveden
- Published:
- 21 May 2024
If you're looking for somewhere where the children can let off some steam, Lyveden is the perfect place for a family day out. From spotting birds and bugs by the moat to discovering what's growing in the wildflower meadows there's lots of fun to be had in the great outdoors.
Planning your family visit
Here's the information you need at a glance to make the most of your family day out at Lyveden:
- Baby-changing facilities are located in the accessible toilet in the Manor courtyard area.
- Snacks, hot food and drinks are available from the restaurant.
- Picnic benches are located by the car park as well as infront of the Manor.
- There are plenty of good spots to set down a picnic blanket if you bring one.
- Most of Lyveden is accessed via grass paths. Surfaces can be uneven and slippy if wet.
Summer at Lyveden
Join us for a jam-packed summer of fun and excitement. Camp Lyveden will keep you busy every day during the school holidays, whether you are enjoying Base Camp, The Outpost, our joining us for an activity or craft. Make sure to check the events page for up to date information on what's on.
Camp Lyveden
28 July - 30 August, 10:00 - 17:00
New for 2025, Camp Lyveden invites you to join in the fun and create your own adventures, inspired by tales of the outdoors and exploration. Explore Base Camp, filled with games and excitement. Discover The Outpost and build your own wild hideout. Enjoy quiet play, daydreams and relaxing in the Fort Blanket. Changing weekly themes will offer new activities to allow you to explore the site even more! With so much on offer, Lyveden is the perfect place to start your summer adventure.
Festival of Archaeology
28 July - 3 August
Learn all about Lyveden’s hidden past this year in the Festival of Archaeology. Take part in a Historical Treasure Hunt, solving clues and riddles to uncover Lyveden's past! On Tuesday, play at being an archaeologist in our mock dig (£2 each). On Wednesday, meet Georgina the Archaeologist, find out about her amazing job and get up clos with artefacts. On Thursday, create a cardboard shield to protect yourself on your adventures (£2 each).
Civil War Living History Weekend
2 – 3 August, 10:00-17:00
This is your chance to experience first hand, the thrill and excitement of regimental musket volleys, pike drill, with drums and colours and the full panoply of the 17th century. Civil War era soldiers and civilians will be on hand to answer your questions of life during this turbulent period of history.
The regiment will set up a 17th century Civil War living history camp at the manor as well as hold regimental drill displays at the Lodge.
The Secret Garden – Outdoor Theatre
Thursday 29 May 2025, 11:00 - 15:30
Join Mary, Colin and Dickon as they tell you the story of their favourite place in the world - The Secret Garden. Following their success in 2024, The Plandits are bringing their re-imagining of the classic Frances Hodgson Burnett book back for a second summer season. Suitable for anyone aged 6+ who loves literature and the great outdoors, audiences have described the show as ‘truly captivating’, ‘uplifting’, ‘totally charming and magical’. This heartfelt, energetic production is full of original music, puppetry, interaction and laughs. As the three characters discover the transforming power of being active, the magic of nature and the joy of play, we’re sure you’ll leave this performance with a renewed enthusiasm for the world around you!
'50 things to do before you're 11¾'
Are you ready to tick some activities off your list of '50 things to do before you're 11¾'? There are plenty of things to try at Lyveden, whatever the weather. Here are just a few to get you started:
- No. 4 Build a den: Check out the Spinney and make yourself a den - What will your den be? A meeting place for spies, a pirate hideout or maybe a fairy castle for the night?
- No. 7 Fly a kite: It doesn’t have to be blowing a gale – a simple box kite will take off in a breeze. Bring your own and run around the meadows and watch it fly
- No. 31 Make friends with a bug: Look in the grass, check tree bark and look under stones to see what bugs you can find
- No. 34 Discover wild animal clues: Can you see the tracks made by the deer and sheep? They make flattened grass paths to get to their favourite spots and you might see their hoof prints if it's muddy around the site
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Things to do at Lyveden manor
With a manor house to see, plan your visit here, with historical talks, information on the garden design and our temporary exhibition space there's plenty to see and do.
Visiting Lyveden with your dog
Lyveden is a three pawprint rated place. Dogs kept on short leads are welcome throughout the garden at Lyveden and on the ground floor of the Manor. Share your day with your dog as you explore woodland and the Northamptonshire countryside together.
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.
‘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’.
