Summer of Play 2025

Join us from 12 July to 25 August for a 'Choose your own Adventure' Summer of Play, sponsored by Starling Bank.

You’ll find five themed zones filled with imaginative, creative and energetic activities — all designed for children (and their grown-ups) to enjoy.

Whether it’s stepping into costume and putting on a show, getting hands-on with art, planting your own mini garden, or simply relaxing with gentle sensory play, each zone offers a different way to connect, explore and have fun.

Everything is set around the front lawns, with plenty of space to roam and room to relax. It’s the perfect spot to spend the whole day, with picnic areas, the café, shop, and the house itself all close by and easy to reach.

New activities will pop up in different zones throughout the week, with brilliant sessions led by our Children and Young People’s Team and some fantastic local partners — so no two visits need be the same.

Tuesdays @ The Nature Station

Drama Sessions with Stephen Beggs * (Except on Tuesday 29th July)

11am – 11.45am 12pm – 12.45pm 1pm – 1.45pm 2pm - 2.45pm 3pm – 3.45pm

Please arrive on time to your chosen session * No need to book in – but sessions start at a set time

Thursdays @ The Creation Station

Splat Messy Play

Messy Play Drop in Sessions

11am – 3pm

Fridays @ The Relaxation Station

Nina’s Notes

Interactive, Sensory, Musical Instruments & Movement Play

11am – 2pm

There is also a Quiet Zone set up in the Exhibition Space