Family-friendly things to do at Ormesby Hall
Looking for a proper family day out here in Middlesbrough? Ormesby Hall is a grand historic house with beautifully kept gardens, but it’s also a relaxed place for kids to be kids. Come for a wander, let little legs burn off energy, and discover what’s on in the school holidays.
Planning your family visit
With great value admission (and always free for National Trust members), it’s an easy, affordable day out that mixes history, fresh air and family fun.
You’ll find lots of family-friendly essentials on site, including toilets and baby-changing facilities in the house and courtyard.
The café has indoor and outdoor seating, highchairs, and kids’ lunchboxes - and you’re welcome to bring a picnic too.
A few handy things to know:
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Pushchairs and prams aren’t allowed in the house, so please leave them at the designated undercover shelter (hip-carrying infant seats are available to borrow).
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Bikes and balls aren’t allowed onsite.
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There is a pond in the orchard, so little ones will need close supervision in that area.
Summer of Play at Ormesby Hall
Saturday 18 July - Sunday 30 August
Get ready for a summer full of family fun at Ormesby Hall.
Our Summer of Play activities run throughout the school holidays, with plenty of opportunities for children to play, explore, get creative and enjoy the outdoors. From games and challenges to crafts, nature-inspired activities and special themed days, there's something different to discover throughout the summer.
With acres of gardens and parkland to explore, a natural play area, family-friendly activities and the historic hall itself, Ormesby Hall is the perfect place to spend time together. Bring a picnic, enjoy an ice cream in the sunshine, spot wildlife around the estate or take a stroll along our accessible multi-user trail.
Summer of Play is included with normal admission, making it a great value family day out in Middlesbrough. Access to the house, gardens, play area, café, bookshop and wider estate are all included too. There’s no need to book.
Dates: Daily from Saturday 18 July - Sunday 30 August
Opening times: 10.30am - 4pm
Admission: £7 adult, £3.50 child, £17.50 family
Free entry: National Trust members and under-fives
Moving Mondays
Join us every Monday throughout the summer holidays for kids yoga!
Come and drop in with Kismet yoga for magical movement, calming breath work, and mindful fun designed just for little ones. The yoga sessions help children feel calm, confident, and connected – all while stretching, playing, and using their imaginations!
Children must be accompanied by an adult, who can take part or watch nearby. Normal admission applies to visit, no pre-booking required
Wildlife Wednesdays
Make Wednesdays part of your summer plans and discover more about the bugs and birds in the garden. A must-do for all explorers and nature enthusiasts.
Join us in the garden for some bug and bird spotting using magnifying glasses and binoculars. What mini-beasts might you find during your visit?
See all of our upcoming events here at Ormesby Hall.
Family-friendly things to do in the house
A surprise delight for lots of families is the model railway layouts, including an interactive layout for children of all ages. Then pop into the second-hand bookshop in the courtyard and take a breather together with a story.
Family-friendly things to do in the garden
There’s loads of space for kids to run off energy in the gardens. Head down to the natural play area where little ones can perform on the Willow Stage and challenge themselves on the rope walk, log stepping stones and balance see-saw.
Looking for a quieter nature moment? Visit the bird hide, see what you can spot, and stop by the bug hotels to see who’s checked in (do not disturb!).
Explore the multi-user trail (free to use)
If you’d like to add a gentle walk (or a quick loop before heading home), try the free multi-user trail - an accessible, all-weather loop around the estate that’s suitable for walkers, runners, pushchairs, wheelchair users and cyclists.
‘50 things to do before you’re 11¾’
No matter the season, Ormesby Hall is the perfect place to see how many activities you can tick off your '50 things' list. Head into the woods to get to know a tree (No. 1), discover wild animal clues (No. 34), head to the bird hide to watch a bird (No. 44) or pay a visit to the bug hotel to make friends with some creepy-crawlies (No. 31).
Follow the link to find out more about our activities at Ormesby Hall: What's on at Ormesby Hall