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.
Autumn Highlights
Beginners Kayak/Canoe Sessions at The Argory
Ever wanted to learn to kayak or thought that canoeing looked fun? Now is your chance to join these beginner-friendly sessions and explore the River Blackwater and see The Argory from a new perspective. Sessions are open to adults and children over the age of 8. All children will need to be accompanied in a tandem canoe with a guardian.
Beginners kayak/canoe sessions at The Argory | National Trust
Autumn Book Fair at The Argory
Get ready for a fun and friendly afternoon at our Autumn Book Fair! As the leaves turn and the nights get darker, it’s the perfect time to snuggle up with a good book. Come along and discover your next favourite story!
Autumn Book Fair at The Argory | National Trust
Woodland Play Sessions for Preschools and Foundation Stage with EGAP
Join us at The Argory for woodland play sessions for Preschools and Foundation Stage groups with Education Group Access Passes.
Woodland Play Sessions for Preschools and Foundation Stage with EGAP | National Trust
Family Volunteering Days at The Argory
Relaxed Saturday morning volunteering sessions for families, couples and individuals. Activities will include seed collecting and preparation, some outdoor conservation work and creation of Autumnal displays for the visitor areas.
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.
Discover the garden this autumn
Your walks at The Argory will become far more colourful as you wander under the golden and amber tree canopies. Look out for the varied and often striking fungi along the pathways, but always remember these should be admired but not touched.
Follow the Lime Tree walk down to the bottom of the front lawns and finish your day out on the carpet of conkers and over hanging golden branches.
Colourful River Walks
Autumn walks along the Blackwater River are a sensory delight, offering a rich tapestry of sights, sounds, and smells. As you stroll under the vibrant canopy of golds, oranges, and reds, keep an eye out for wildlife preparing for winter—squirrels gathering acorns and the occasional flash of a kingfisher by the water’s edge. Breath in the crisp air, scent of fallen leaves and damp moss, with the sound of the river flowing gently alongside. Listen for birdsong and the rustling of leaves underfoot, making each step a connection to nature’s autumnal beauty.
Things to Do on an Autumn Walk
1. Collect Colorful Leaves – Gather fallen leaves in vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow.
2. Birdwatch – Bring binoculars to spot migratory birds or local species preparing for winter.
3. Forage for Nuts and Berries – Look for acorns, conkers, blackberries, or wild mushrooms (if you're experienced).
4. Take Nature Photos – Capture the stunning autumn colors and textures of the season.
5. Listen to the Sounds of Nature – Enjoy the rustling leaves, bird calls, and the crunch of the ground beneath your feet.
6. Look for Wildlife– Keep an eye out for squirrels, deer, and other animals getting ready for winter.
7. Breathe in the Fresh Air– Take a moment to inhale the crisp, earthy autumn scents.
8. Sketch or Journal– Bring along a notebook to document the beauty around you through sketches or thoughts.
9. Explore Hidden Paths – Venture off the beaten path and discover less-traveled trails.
10. 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
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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 this autumn with a day out at the places in our care. Enjoy crisp, colourful woodland walks that spark curiosity and natural play areas perfect for burning off energy. As the vibrant autumn leaves fall, family adventures await around every corner. If the weather turns chilly or damp, take shelter in our cosy, family-friendly cafés and indulge in some seasonal treats. Be sure to check property websites for up-to-date opening times and special autumn 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’.
