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 at The Argory
Halloween Bug Hunt at The Argory
Bring your little monsters to The Argory this Halloween during half-term. Go on a bug hunt to find all the creepy crawlies who call The Argory their home. Read more
Trust10 at The Argory
Join us for a 10k family and adult run along the scenic trails of The Argory. Read more
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.
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.
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
Treat yourself to a delicious snack or lunch in the Courtyard Coffee Shop and browse the second-hand books at the Blackwater bookshop. Visit 'The Coach House Collective' artisan pop-up shop, supporting local artists at The Argory.
Family-friendly places to visit
Find the best family-friendly places to visit and discover the fun-filled activities on offer at the places in our care.
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’
Fancy running free in the fresh air, learning new skills and trying new things? Grab your gear and start your adventure.