Discover more at Wallington
Find out when Wallington is open, how to get here, the things to see and do and more.
Family activities at Wallington
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 or one of our kiosks?
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 12pm-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!
October half term at Wallington
A half term visit to Wallington will 'leaf' you full of the joys of autumn and feeling 'spooktacular' with activities to enjoy the whole week long. The incredibly popular Little Leaf Collectors is back so pick your wheelbarrow and rake, and get cracking by helping clear the courtyard of all the fallen leaves. They just keep on falling! There's also some autumnal and Halloween crafts in the yurt on three days and you can set off to explore the East woods, where once again, 13 witches have left their broomsticks behind! Be sure to look high and low. We wonder how long it'll take them realise?!
For more information about what's on at half term, check out our Events page.
Let off some steam in the play areas
Choose one of the four play areas and let your imagination run wild.
Play Fort
Defend your territory in the play fort, cross the rope bridge, slide down the firefighter's pole and scale the mini climbing walls to escape capture.
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Cycle the Dragon trail
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
Opening hours
Weekends and every day in the local school holidays from 10am to 4.30pm (last hire at 3.30pm).
Prices
For 2 hours hire:
Adult sized bikes £10
Child sized bikes £7
Bike & trailer * £16
Bike & dog trailer £16
Ice Trike £10
Trike ** £7
Electric bikes*** £12 per hour
Electric bike & trailer £15 per hour
* age, height and weight restrictions apply
** suitable for use on green trail only
*** age restrictions apply
Helmets & balance bikes are free
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. The House is open 7 days a week, from, 11.30am until 3.30pm until November.
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.
'50 things to do before you're 11¾'
How many '50 things' activities can you complete during your visit to Wallington? Here are a few suggestions to get you started:
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Christmas at Wallington
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.
Outdoor activities at Wallington
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.
Visiting Wallington with your dog
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.
Things to see and do in the house at Wallington
Step inside the house to uncover the fascinating stories of those who lived here, told through their collection of artworks, books, ceramics and curiosities.
Things to see and do in the garden at Wallington
Discover the colourful, fragrant plants in the Walled Garden, take in the different spaces and areas and look out for the peaceful Mary Pool.
Family-friendly places to visit
Looking for a family day out that'll keep everyone entertained? Find things to do with the kids at the places we care for near you.
Adventure awaits: family fun in the North East
Embrace the magic of autumn with unforgettable family adventures across the North East—come rain, shine, or golden leaves. From crisp woodland walks and conker hunts to cosy indoor trails and historic houses steeped in seasonal charm, there’s something for every kind of day. Whether you're crunching through leaves or sheltering from a drizzle, discover playful ways to explore, learn, and make lasting memories together.
‘50 things to do before you're 11¾’
Plan fresh-air activities, discover facts about nature and wildlife or learn a new skill with our suggestions for ‘50 things to do before you’re 11¾’.
