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Exhibition - Small Worlds: Treasures of Victorian Play

Discover the magical world of Victorian childhood in Small Worlds: Treasures of Victorian Play, a new object focused display, which will explore how children played and learned during the 19th century.

  • Booking not needed
  • Free event (admission applies)

From beautifully crafted dolls to intricate toy miniatures, this exhibition brings together a rich collection of objects that once filled Victorian nurseries and playrooms. Many of these toys have been carefully preserved in our collections store, and are rarely, if ever, seen by the public, making this a rare opportunity to encounter them on display. Visitors are invited to look closely, discover fine details, and uncover the stories hidden within these small but powerful objects.

Whether you’re fascinated by social history, design, or childhood pasts, Small Worlds: Treasures of Victorian Play offers a charming and thought-provoking journey into a world of imagination and play.

Join us this summer for a charming and revealing exhibition for all ages.

Normal admission charges apply. House opens at 11.00 and last entry to the house is 16.00.

Look out for more ways to enjoy Summer of Play at Rufford Old Hall on our events page.

Times

Prices

Event ticket prices

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

Check admission prices

The basics

Accessibility

For a full access statement please head to Rufford Old Hall's webpage. To see the AccessAble page, visit: https://www.accessable.co.uk/national-trust/rufford-old-hall-national-trust

Upcoming events

Blossom at Rufford Old Hall 

Every spring, blossom declares the arrival of brighter days to come. We invite you to enjoy blossom’s fleeting beauty and celebrate all the good it can do – for people and for nature.

Event summary

on
8 May to 31 May 2026
at 10:30 to 16:00+ 17 other dates or times

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.

Event summary

on
8 May to 22 Dec 2026
at 10:30 to 16:00+ 164 other dates or times

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.

Event summary

on
26 May to 27 Oct 2026
at 09:30 to 11:00+ 5 other dates or times

Tai Chi in the Gardens 

Escape to Rufford's peaceful garden for a morning session of Tai Chi.

Event summary

on
23 Jun to 14 Jul 2026
at 10:00 to 11:00+ 3 other dates or times