There's lots to keep the family entertained at Wallington, whatever the season. Look out for wildlife on the River Walk, zoom along the Dragon cycle trail or go wild in one of the play areas (play train closed until spring 2026). Don't forget our impressive selection of splashy puddles on soggy days; we've got the mud if you've got the wellies! For rumbling tummies, why not make a stop at the Clocktower Café, pizza trailer or Dragon kiosk?
Planning your family visit
Here's the information you need at a glance to make the most of your family day out at Wallington:
Toilets and baby-changing facilities are available in the courtyard and in the café
The fun-packed play areas; the play fort, adventure playground and the Little Acorns nature play space are all open everyday (weather permitting). The play train and station platform are closed for repairs until spring 2026.
There is ramped access to the house, but please leave buggies outside
Drinks, snacks and ice cream are available at the Clocktower Café (open everyday) and the Dragon kiosk (open weekends in term time and every day in the school holidays from 11am to 3pm).
The Wood fired pizza van is open 11am to 3pm every day in the school holidays and on weekends in West Wood, next to the Play Fort.
Don't forget our impressive selection of splashy puddles on soggy days; we've got the mud if you've got the wellies!
Let off some steam in the play areas
Choose one of the four play areas and let your imagination run wild.
Play Train (closed until spring 2026 for repair work)
Take a journey on the play train or wave off your friends from the platform.
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Christmas
There's plenty of festive magic and sparkle both indoors and out at Wallington this Christmas. The House will be dressed in its seasonal splendour, with the sound of live music filling the air. Mrs Christmas is back for storytelling and you can meet the man of the moment, Father Christmas. The courtyard will be sparkling with its thousands of twinkling lights and the huge Christmas tree. 'Magnificence' the reindeer pulling the Wallington sleigh will once again take centre stage at the front of the House.
Cycling is a fantastic way to explore the wider estate at Wallington and there are two family-friendly routes to choose from, an easy 1.5km green route that's perfect for little legs, or a more challenging but still family-friendly 4.5km blue route. Go as fast or as slow as you’d like – you can even stop for a picnic along the way.
Cycle hire
Cycle hire is now closed for the season and will reopen in spring 2026.
Family-friendly things to do in the house
There is lots for families to discover and enjoy inside Wallington so whether it is sunny or raining outdoors, the house is a great place to explore.
Take a seat in the reading room, complete with children’s book nook, and get lost in an adventure of the fictional kind.
Head to the kitchen and imagine all the hustle and bustle there must have been preparing for parties back in the day.
Meet the teeny-tiny residents of the many grand houses on display and see the hundreds of toy soldiers all lined up ready for action. We bet you can't count how many there are!
Wildlife trails
Keep an eye out for wildlife as you pedal or walk around the estate, you might see a roe deer or one of several species of birds. Stop at the wildlife hide to get a closer look.
The river walk will take you alongside the banks of the river Wansbeck through the woods. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife – birds, otters and native white-clawed crayfish all call the Wansbeck valley home. You can meet some captive crayfish in the visitor welcome building too and find out more about this fascinating species.
How many '50 things' activities can you complete during your visit to Wallington? Here are a few suggestions to get you started:
From the iconic nookta cypress in front of the house to the impressive giant sequoia in the East Wood, Wallington is home to some splendid trees. Look out for colours and textures changing with every season. You might even spot some of the wildlife that makes its home in the branches.
There are plenty of building materials for your den in the West Wood. Just make sure it’s not living before you take it.
Stop on the bridge on the River Walk for a game of Pooh sticks. Pick up your stick on the way – will yours be the fastest?
Enjoy a stroll along the Farm Walk or River Walk, looking out for some of Wallington’s resident wildlife as you go. Deer, buzzards and a variety of birds can all be found here. Who will you spot on your welly wander?
No. 44 Go birdwatching
The Little Acorns nature play space and the family-friendly wildlife hide in the West Wood are great places to try birdwatching. With lots of tempting feeders, it won't be long before you spy a chaffinch, blue tit or even a woodpecker.
Discover more at Wallington
Find out when Wallington is open, how to get here, the things to see and do and more.
Thousands of twinkling lights and the sparkly Courtyard Christmas tree will provide a warm festive welcome to Wallington. The House will once again be dressed to impress in all its finery, with the dazzling 20ft Christmas tree standing proud in the Central Hall. Father Christmas will be popping in to say a merry hello too, with Mrs Christmas returning for storytelling. We hope you, your family and friends all enjoy a fun-packed festive visit here this year.
Reconnect with nature at Wallington and explore miles of footpaths along rivers and through woodland, bring your bikes and try the cycling trail and spot wildlife including red squirrels and otters.
Wallington is a two pawprint rated place. Find out where you can walk your dog at Wallington, from the miles of parkland and woodland trails to the historic walled garden.
Step inside the house to uncover the fascinating stories of those who lived here, told through their collection of artworks, books, ceramics and curiosities.
Embrace the wonder of winter with unforgettable family adventures across the North East - come frost, flurries, or festive sparkle. From brisk woodland strolls and frosty treasure hunts to snug indoor trails and historic houses glowing with seasonal warmth, there’s something for every kind of day. Whether you're crunching through snow or warming up after a chilly breeze, discover playful ways to explore, learn, and make lasting memories together.
