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Family-friendly things to do at Lyveden

Published:
22 May 2024
Young girl with her grandfather, leant over smelling wildflowers in a meadow.
Family fun at Lyveden, Northamptonshire | © ©National Trust Images/Paul Harris

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.

Family-friendly events this Spring

Bring the family along to Lyveden this Spring. As you explore the formal gardens, how many of Thomas Tresham's codes and symbols will you discover? Intrepid adventures can head up to the moat and take on the Labyrinth; will you make it to the end?

Clay Café at Lyveden

17 April, 15 May, and 12 June, 1.30pm - 3pm. Booking essential, £7 per person. 

Discover the calming, creative joy of working with clay in our cosy café. Clay Conversations practitioner, Ruth guides a relaxed session using clay to support creativity and wellbeing. Direction and advice is provided, with a theme for each session. However, you are also free to follow your own ideas and make whatever your hands want to!

May half term Lodge week

23 - 31 May, 10am - 4pm. No booking needed. Normal admission applies. 

The Lodge at Lyveden will be reopening and to celebrate, we have a week of Lodge themed activities. Whether you want to embark on a history tour on the bank holiday or get involved in games and crafts during the week, there's something for everyone. What will you discover?

As You Like It - Outdoor Theatre by Illyria

Friday 28 August, 6pm - 8.30pm. Pre-booking essential. Adult £19.51, Child £10.84 

International award-winning Illyria promises a memorable night of sparkling wit, laughter and romance under the stars in Shakespeare's iconic comedy. This is an outdoor performance, so pack up a picnic ready for entertanimnet unter the summer skies. 

A view of the Elizabethan lodge at Lyveden with the sun hitting the walls and blue sky above

Discover more at Lyveden

Find out when Lyveden is open, how to get here, the things to see and do and more.

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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.

Lyveden's manor house, nestled behind a grassy hill and surrounded by lush green trees in springtime.

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.

Small dog on a lead, looks towards the camera in a sunny orchard.

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.

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‘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’.

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