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Summer of Play

Bring the whole family to enjoy the summer holidays with our range of fun activities for our Summer of Play, included with admission. Until 31 August, children get free admission to the house and grounds at Waddesdon!

  • Booking advisable
  • Free event (admission applies)

Each week we introduce a new theme with fun activities to get stuck into.

From Wednesday 25 until Sunday 26 July, it's Animal Week.

Get involved in the Big Butterfly Count and see how many different species of butterflies you can spot. Berkshire Birds of Prey will be here from Thursday to Sunday with

From Wednesday 29 July until Sunday 2 August, take part in Get Active Week,

Have a go at archery, axe throwing or the climbing wall all week or have a game of mini golf from Wednesday to Sunday.

Next up is By the Seaside Week from Wednesday 5 until Sunday 9 August.

Enjoy mermaid and pirate themed painting from Wednesday to Friday and don't miss the giant whale that washes ashore on Sunday!

Circus Week takes place from Wednesday 12 until Sunday 19 August with spectacular shows and the chance to try your hand at different circus skills.

Times

Prices

Event ticket prices

This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.

Check admission prices

The basics

Suitability

Suitable for children

Meeting point

Visitor Information

What to bring and wear

Weather appropriate clothing and footwear

Upcoming events

Four Seasons 

An exhibition of light works exploring time and place, and the influence of nature, landscape and the environment by Bruce and Tink Munro.

Event summary

on
6 May to 1 Jul 2026
at 10:00 to 17:00+ 40 other dates or times

The Tree Listening Project 

The Tree Listening Project is a groundbreaking environmental educational installation, which reveals the inner workings of a tree.

Event summary

on
6 May to 31 May 2026
at 10:00 to 17:00+ 19 other dates or times

Saved for the Nation 

Celebrating the transfer of two of Sir Joshua Reynolds' greatest masterpieces to the National Trust.

Event summary

on
6 May to 29 Nov 2026
at 12:00 to 16:00+ 149 other dates or times

The Rothschild Story 

New for 2026, discover The Rothschild Story – a display bringing the family's complex history and family tree to life.

Event summary

on
6 May to 29 Nov 2026
at 12:00 to 16:00+ 149 other dates or times