Visiting The Argory with Family
Find out everything you need to know about visiting The Argory with kids. From playing in the play areas to borrowing balance bikes and essential information on where you'll find baby-changing facilities, bringing a picnic and more.
The Argory has something special for kids of all ages. The playpark blends seamlessly with the landscape, allowing kids to have adventures in nature while their imaginations run wild. For indoor play, The Argory offers the interactive space 'The Light Box.' Kids can create their own neon art masterpiece, discover the journey of light at The Argory over the years, and enjoy interactive light and sensory games. Located in the courtyard, The Lightbox is a great indoor space for kids to enjoy, come rain or shine.
Winter Highlights
Christmas at The Argory is all about the excitement of reviving festive traditions and sharing precious moments with loved ones. Soak up the wonderful atmosphere and see the house decorated for Christmas. Unwrap a classic Christmas with festive experiences as you step back in time to a Yuletide of yesteryear.
Twilight Market
Our enchanting Twilight Market on 5th December invites you to enjoy the magic of Christmas with live music, food and craft stalls.
The Argory's Twilight Market | National Trust
The Christmas Fair
The Christmas Fair will return to The Argory on 6 and 7 December, bigger, better and more festive than ever before, with live music, food and craft stalls. Families will also have the chance to meet Santa and his elves in the grotto.
See life through the eyes of a child at Christmas in the Victorian era. Learn about the games and traditions of the festive period.
The Argory's Christmas Fair | National Trust
Winter walks at The Argory
Discover the beauty of The Argory, stripped bare by winter, full of life as busy woodland residents emerge to be spotted traversing the tangled network of branches with ease, gathering fodder for their winter feasts. Red robins with their feathers all fluffed up against the cold follow the gardener waiting for tasty treats to be unearthed as he works the soil. It’s the perfect time of year to see a kingfisher perched above the icy river blackwater warming himself up in a patch of winter sun.
Snowdrops at The Argory
Snowdrops are a striking bloom in winter months when little else is growing, a walk through a blanket of snowdrops is a seasonal pleasure for many.
The small, white, bell-shaped flowers are always a welcoming sight as winter draws to a close. Snowdrops, also known as galanthus nivalis, are brave little flowers and the colder the weather, the longer they will last, with some flowering into March.
Playground
The playpark is conveniently located near the main visitor car park. Our goal was to design an interactive space that seamlessly blends with the natural landscape, inviting children to embark on adventures in nature while sparking their imaginations. We hope it inspires your little ones to explore, take in the scenery, engage their senses, and fully enjoy the outdoors.
Things to Do on a Winter Walk
1. Birdwatch – Bring binoculars to spot migratory birds or local species preparing for winter.
2. Take Nature Photos – Capture the stunning colours and textures of the season.
3. Listen to the Sounds of Nature – Enjoy the bird calls, and the crunch of the ground beneath your feet.
4. Look for Wildlife– Keep an eye out for squirrels, deer, and other animals in winter.
5. Breathe in the Fresh Air– Take a moment to inhale the crisp, earthy winter air.
6. Sketch or Journal– Bring along a notebook to document the beauty around you through sketches or thoughts.
7. Explore Hidden Paths – Venture off the beaten path and discover less-traveled trails.
8. Enjoy a Hot Drink – Pack a thermos with hot chocolate or tea to sip while you walk.
50 things to do before you’re 11¾
Are you ready for your next wild adventure? The Argory is the perfect place to explore outdoors and tick some fun activities off the National Trust’s '50 things to do before you’re 11¾’ list.
Here are just some of the activities you can conquer with family and friends at The Argory. How many can you do on your next visit?
- No. 1 - Get to know a tree
- No. 4 - Build a den
- No. 5 - Skim a stone
- No. 8 - Spot a fish
- No. 18 - Create some wild art
- No. 34 - Discover wild animal clues
- No. 44 - Watch a bird
- No. 50 - Take a friend on a nature adventure
You might also be interested in
Explore The Outdoors at The Argory
Discover all The Argory has to offer, from exploring the house to the out houses and then to the seasonal highlights in the garden.
Eating and shopping at The Argory
A perfect day out with delicious food, unique crafts, and literary treasures
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.
Family-friendly places in Northern Ireland
Discover the best family-friendly places to visit in Northern Ireland with a day out at the places in our care. With outdoor trails for inquisitive minds and natural play areas to let off steam, family adventures await all year round. If rain descends on your outdoor playground, take shelter in our family-friendly cafés for some well-deserved treats. Check property websites for specific opening times and events.
‘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’.
