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Summer of Play

Come out to play with your friends and family this summer. Between 26 July - 01 September embark on your next adventure in nature at Rufford Old Hall.

  • Booking not needed
  • Free event (admission applies)

Run wild in the natural play area, enjoy a picnic and outdoor games in one of the paddocks, try on suits of armour in the Great Hall and tuck into your favourite treats in the Victorian tea-room.

Every day during summer opening times (Fri-Tues) enjoy an abundance of garden games and self-led activities. Escape to the Orchard Paddock and take part in free sports activities including cricket, rounders, tennis, soft archery, croquet and more. From the Coach House you can collect a sports day kit box which includes instructions, skipping ropes, hula hoops, race markers, beanbags and more.

As part of Rufford’s usual offering don’t forget about the hugely popular balance bikes available to borrow, as well as nature backpacks, picture orienteering maps and binoculars which can be collected from the Coach House.

Summer of Play sponsored by Starling Bank. Normal admission charges apply.

Times

Prices

Event ticket prices

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

Check admission prices

Upcoming events

Event

Outside Talk - History & Geography of Rufford Old Hall 

Come for a free guided walk with volunteer Anne, as she shares her knowledge on the history and geography of Rufford Old Hall and the surrounding area.

Event summary

on
3 May to 17 May 2024
at
11:30 to 12:30
+ 5 other dates or times
Event

Outdoor Theatre - Little Women 

An uplifting and heartfelt tale of the March sisters’ journey into adulthood and all the trials and triumphs that come with it, Little Women features authentic costuming and a beautiful musical score.

Event summary

on
5 Jul 2024
at
19:00 to 21:00
Event

Outdoor Theatre - A Midsummer Night's Dream 

Let yourself be whisked away on an enchanting journey to the most magical of forests and meet bewitched lovers, playful fairies, and hilarious travelling players.

Event summary

on
9 Aug 2024
at
19:00 to 21:00
Event

Guided Bat Walk 

Join our friendly bat expert for an evening guided walk through the gardens and woodland here at Rufford to find out more about the different species of bat living here.

Event summary

on
16 Aug to 23 Aug 2024
at
19:30 to 21:00
+ 1 other date or time