Summer of Play at Crook Hall Gardens 2026
Play your way around the gardens this summer, whether that’s by getting sporty or dressing up and playing make believe as you imagine the gardens to be your own.
- Booking not needed
- Free event (admission applies)
This year at Crook Hall Gardens Summer of Play is bigger than ever! When you visit choose to get involved with a led pop-up event or play in your own time with our self-led activities available every day from July to September.
There'll be different games you can pick up and play with dotted around the gardens including dress-up areas, nature-based creative activities or football, sack racing and more.
On top of all this, check back on our events page soon for our pop-up activities (dates TBC). As a sneak peek here's what to look out for:
• Free family yoga sessions with Kalma Life UK
• Free games of rounders and dodgeball
• Free nature crafts
• SEND sports and games with Smile Through Sport
• Axe Throwing with B Outdoors
With imaginations running wild and competitive fun happening throughout the gardens you'll head home tired yet refreshed from connecting with beautiful nature.
Times
Prices
Event ticket prices
This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.
Check admission pricesThe basics
- Suitability
Suitable for children of all ages. Must be accompanied by an adult.
- Meeting point
Please ask at the admissions desk on the day to find the Summer of Play activities.
- What to bring and wear
We recommend weather appropriate clothing and shoes. Please be aware, the ground might be muddy.
- Accessibility
Access to the gardens and hall is via slopes, some steps and uneven paths. For a full accessibility guide, please refer to the visitor information section of our website.
Upcoming events
North East Festival of Blossom 2026: Art and photography student exhibition
Encounter creative responses to Blossom around Crook Hall Gardens, designed by students from the University of Sunderland.
May half term: Pollinator trail
Explore the gardens on a self-led trail to discover buzzing bees and fluttering butterflies.
Crook Hall Gardens tour: horticulture
Join our gardening guru volunteers for a horticultural tour of Crook Hall Gardens.
Live music at Crook Hall Gardens
Local musicians make a visit extra special.