Ilam Park: Highlighted Event: Summer of Play
Summer of play is back! Join in the festival feeling and explore the many exciting play opportunities for all ages, from tiny tots, to not so grown ups all for free!
- Booking not needed
- Free event
Get ready for a summer bursting with colour, creativity and play in the beautiful countryside as Ilam Park marks the 200 year anniversary of Ilam Hall. Spot fluttering flags and colourful bunting as the whole family enjoys the park, and gets into the festival feeling of Summer of Play 2026. Expect the return of much loved favourites such as our Frisbee Golf down by the river, the wonderfully messy Mud Kitchen in the Hidden Play Garden, and the rainbow ribbon Maze that’s out on the ! Alongside these classics, we’re introducing new games and activities for you to enjoy created especially for this anniversary year, adding fresh surprises to every visit. Throughout the holidays, there will also be drop in activities to enjoy in the Tea Room Garden. These will change week by week, check the Ilam Park events page for the latest details and timings. Whether you’re racing across the lawn, getting gloriously muddy, or simply soaking up the festival atmosphere, Summer of Play 2026 promises to be a joyful celebration of Ilam’s past, present and future.
Times
The basics
- Booking number
Call 01335 350503
- Accessibility
We are proud to offer a circular accessible path (1 mile), a changing place, an accessible path, and step free access to our Coach House Kiosk and Stables Bookshop.
- Meeting point
Meet us at the Welcome Hut to collect a map.
- Suitability for children
All families welcome!
- What to bring and wear
Dress for the weather, that might mean sunhats and sun cream or wellies and umbrellas. Let's embrace the British weather and enjoy it whatever it throws at us.
- Other
Ilam Park is open to everyone and there is no admission charge. There is only a charge for car parking £6 for 4 hours and £8 all day, National Trust members and blue badge holders park for free. The Manifold Tearoom (upstairs) and Coach House Kiosk (downstairs) are open throughout the summer holidays, serving a range of delicious food, drinks and all important ice creams! Please note we do not allow BBQs, fires or cooking of any kind on site. We do welcome picnics but ask that you take all your litter home with you or use the bins provided.
Upcoming events
Ilam Park: Free Regular Relaxed Ramble
Join us for a free gentle walk in the countryside, enjoy a gentle pace and all the benefits of getting outside in nature. Coffee and tea included at the end of the walk.
Ilam Park: Little Explorers Club
Step into the countryside with your little one at Ilam Park’s free monthly preschool nature club. Each session is set in the Coach House, with gentle adventures into nature, hands‑on seasonal crafts, and cosy story time.
Ilam Park: 2026 Guided Walks: Map Reading for Beginners
Join us for the day and learn a skill that has been used to travel the world for thousands of years!
Dovedale Big Litter Pick
Join us for a few hours at Dovedale and get your steps in, picking litter along the valley so the National Nature Reserve remains a great place for nature and people alike.