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, take a look at our events page for more information on our pop-up activities.
Here's a sneak peek of what to look out for:
• Free family yoga sessions with Kalma Life UK
• Free outdoor sports
• Free puppet show
• SEND sports and games with Smile Through Sport *booking required
• Axe Throwing with B Outdoors *booking required
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
- 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.
- Meeting point
Please ask at the admissions desk on the day to find the Summer of Play activities.
- Suitability for children
Suitable for children of all ages. Must be accompanied by an adult.
- What to bring and wear
We recommend weather appropriate clothing and shoes. Please be aware, the ground might be muddy.
Upcoming events
Crook Hall Gardens tour: history and literary links
Step into Crook Hall Gardens' past on a guided tour.
Crook Hall Gardens tour: horticulture
Join our gardening guru volunteers for a horticultural tour of Crook Hall Gardens.
History of Durham city walk
A guided walk from Crook Hall Gardens delving into the history of Durham.
Dahlia Flower Arranging Workshop with The Northern Flower Garden
Join florist Debbie from The Northern Flower Garden to celebrate the beauty of late summer by arranging flowers together.