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Family-friendly things to do at Lyveden

Published:
22 May 2024
Visitors collecting apples in the orchard at Nunnington Hall, North Yorkshire
Family fun at Lyveden, Northamptonshire | © ©National Trust Images/Annapurna Mellor

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.

Clay Café at Lyveden

18 September, 16 October, 13 November and 11 December, 1pm - 2.30pm, £7 per person. Pre-booking essential. 

Clay Conversations practitioner, Ruth guides a relaxed session using clay to support creativity and wellbeing. The focus is on enjoying the material and process, rather than the end product.

Direction and advice is provided, with a theme for each session; September's session will be themed on leaf bowls and hedgerow treasures.

Plotober half term family trail

24 October - 8 November, 10am-4pm (check the event listing for exact times). Normal admission applies.

Be transported back to 1605 with a trail that explores the Gunpowder Plot. Try your hand at fun-filled games that place you in the shoes of the plotters, including an obstacle course and bean bag throw challenge. Free for National Trust members and under 5s, or included in your admission ticket.

Coming up for Christmas

Festive bauble workshop

28 November, 11am-1pm. £40 per person with all materials and admission included. Pre-booking essential

Join botanical artist and illustrator Imogen for a nature-inspired, festive bauble workshop. Enjoy a mince pie from the café and relax!

Christmas in the Manor: Merriment and mischief, the Lord of Misrule takes over

28 November - 3 January, 10am-3pm. Normal admission applies.

Join us for a season of fun and festive cheer with the manor decorated for Christmas

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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Visiting Lyveden with your dog 

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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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