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Visiting The Argory with family

Child Playing in Daffodil's
Enjoy the great outdoors with family at The Argory | © John Millar

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.

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

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 for a limited time, and are included as part of standard admission.

  • 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.

Pack a Picnic

Why not give al fresco dinning a try The Argory for an outdoor dining experience. 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. 

Child in the adventure playground at The Argory, County Armagh.
Child in the adventure playground at The Argory, County Armagh. | © National Trust Images/Arnhel de Serra

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 Summer 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.

The Argory Park
The Argory Park | © Catriona Corrigan

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
Hunting for bugs at Winkworth Arboretum, Surrey
Hunting for bugs | © National Trust Images/Trevor Ray Hart

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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.

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‘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’.

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