What's On at Rufford Old Hall
Throughout 2026, Rufford Old Hall will host a programme of free to experience activities and events for all the family, included in the price of admission.
- Booking not needed
- Free event (admission applies)
House Tours: Daily, 10.45. Talks each day, times on admission.
Garden Talks: Mondays at 13.30 and Fridays at 11.30.
Meet the Gardener Talks: 1st Tuesday of each month, 11.30.
Forget-Me-Not Dementia Café: Mar - Oct: Last Tuesday of the month, 9.30. Nov-Feb Second Friday of the month, 10.00. See events page for more info.
Lute Playing in Great Hall: Each Tuesday and Sunday throughout the day.
Traditional Yarn Spinning Demos inside House: 30 August, 19 and 20 September, throughout the day.
Summer of Play sports and games: 17 July – 1 September, throughout the day. See event page for more information.
Fencing Drop In Sessions: 7, 18, 24 and 25 August, in the Orchard Paddock. 11.30-16.00. See events page for more information.
Small Worlds: Treasures of Victorian Play exhibition: 17 July – 1 September, throughout the day. See event page for more information.
Red Rose Woodturners demonstrations and market: 19-20 September.
Scarecrow Festival 2026: "Rufford Rocks: Pop stars and music legends", 23 October - 8 November. Across site, 10.30-16.00
Stranger Folk App exploration: Throughout October
Christmas at Rufford: 27 November - 20 December. Enjoy Rufford dressed for the festive season throughout the house and grounds. Look out for ticketed events on sale on the website July 2026.
Times and dates are subject to change, please check website and social media regularly for additions to the programme.
Times
Prices
Event ticket prices
This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.
Check admission pricesThe basics
- Accessibility
These events are in accessible, step-free locations with the exception of Traditional Spinning Demonstrations, which are typically held on the 1st floor of the house. For a full accessibility statement, please see our website.
- Meeting point
Visit our Second Hand Bookshop to scan your membership card or pay for admission. Our Welcome Team will point you in the direction of any events and activities.
- Suitability for children
Fun for all the family
- What to bring and wear
Weather appropriate clothing for the season and activity.
Upcoming events
Heritage Open Day 2026
Enjoy free entry for all to Rufford Old Hall on Sunday 20 September 2026.
Forget-Me-Not – Dementia Friendly Café at Rufford Old Hall
Join us at Rufford Old Hall for our monthly Dementia Café, a warm and welcoming space for people living with dementia and those who support them.
Stranger Folk
Go on a quest with the Stranger Folk app this October and explore Rufford Old Hall through folk tales and interactive games.
Scarecrow Festival 2026
This October get involved and create your very own scarecrow for display here in Rufford's grounds during our annual scarecrow festival. This year's theme is 'Rufford Rocks: pop stars and music legends'!