Visiting The Argory with Family

Children playing in the woods at Hardy's Cottage, Dorset — Enjoy the great outdoors with family at The Argory | © National Trust Images/Arnhel de Serra

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 newly refurbished 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.

A family huddle together on the lawn at The Argory, three small children are on balance bikes — Training wheels and family fun at The Argory | © Steven Henry

Planning some family time with the kids this summer and not quite sure what to do? At The Argory we've got summer sorted - read on for our top things to do in June, July and August.

Join in with the Summer of Play

1 July - 31 August

Get your heart racing in nature this summer. Explore The Argory to find games to keep you active in the sun. Play tennis on the lawn, build a den near the Walled Garden, and brave the barefoot sensory walk. If you're still full of energy after that, you can make some music, stage a show, and walk the plank!

Games will be available everyday, and are included as part of standard admission.

Summer of Play is sponsored by Starling Bank:

Fitminds Keep your mind sharp with our engaging challenges!
Walk the Plank: Test your balance and bravery!
Brave the Barefoot Walk: Feel the textures of nature beneath your feet!
Hurl the Hula Hoopla: Show off your hula hoop skills!
Make Some Music: Create beautiful melodies and rhythms!
Stage a Show: Let your creativity shine in our performance area!
Build a Den: Construct the perfect hideaway!
Try Out Tennis: Serve, volley, and rally with friends!
Walk the Plank: A fun balance challenge for all ages!

There is no additional charge for this session. Normal admission charges to The Argory apply. Under 5’s and members FREE.

We wish to include as many kids as possible with this additional Rugby Tots activity so initially the maximum number of sessions per child is two.

Pack a Picnic

Why not give al fresco dinning a try this summer at The Argory. We have picnic benches across the ground and picnic blankets to borrow. And with the with and the Courtyard Café serving sandwiches, drinks and ice cream, you don't even need to worry about packing the cool bag, you just have to come along and we'll do the rest.

Want to bring your youth group, playgroup, or club for a fun-filled day?

For special group rates email argory@nationaltrust.org.uk. Reduced group rates available for minimum number of 15 kids.

When you come out and play at The Argory, you're helping us look after nature's playground.

Family visitors by the lake at Woodchester Park, Gloucestershire — Family on riverside | © National Trust Images/Chris Lacey

Playground

The playpark is located near the main visitor car park. Our aim was to create an interactive environment that feels like part of the landscape, allowing kids to enjoy adventures in nature while their imaginations run wild. We hope it encourages your little ones to look up and around, admire the views, engage with their senses and appreciate being 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

A child in red wellington boots jumps a creek — Child Jumping in red wellington boots. | © National Trust Images/Rob Coleman

Up Coming Events

Formal gardens the Argory, County Armagh, Northern Ireland

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Things to see and do at The Argory

Discover all The Argory has to offer, from exploring the house to seasonal highlights in the garden.

An outdoor table with a hot takeaway cup, a piece of cake, and a soft drink.

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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.

Two children peer through a summer play installation

Family-friendly places to visit

Find the best family-friendly places to visit and discover the fun-filled activities on offer as part of our Summer of Play, sponsored by Starling Bank.

Family-friendly places in Northern Ireland

Discover the best family-friendly places to visit in Northern Ireland this summer with a day out at the places in our care. Enjoy sunny outdoor trails that ignite inquisitive minds and natural play areas perfect for letting off steam. When the summer sun shines, family adventures are boundless. If a sudden summer shower appears, take refuge in our family-friendly cafés for some well-deserved treats. Remember to check property websites for specific opening times and events.