Ilam Park: Festival of Archaeology
Calling all young Archaeologists! come and get involved over the two weeks hunting for history and taking part in our craft events all for free as part of Summer of Play
- Booking not needed
- Free event
-Pick up a trail sheet to go history hunting across the parkland can you find all the pieces of the puzzle and solve of the mystery of Ilam Park's History? Pick up your sheet from the Welcome Hut any time over the 2 weeks.
-Get creative in the Stables Second Hand Bookshop and do your best colouring in any time over the 2 weeks.
-Make your own Roman Pot Drop into our riverside bell tent on Wednesday 23rd July to get your hands mucky a create some real pottery pieces inspired the Roman pottery we've found locally. Have a go at making a small hand pot with air drying clay, and learn about Roman Ilam Park and what the Roman artifacts have uncovered about life 2000 years ago! Free - Drop in 10:30 - 14:30pm
-Become a tree detective Drop into our riverside bell tent on Wednesday 30th July to learn all the wonder of trees and how to find out just how old some of these ancient giants are. Can you find a tree ring as old as you? Free - Drop in 10:30 - 14:30pm
This year's Summer of Play is proudly sponsored by Starling Bank, whose generous support has enabled Ilam Park to elevate this beloved event to new heights, ensuring an even more enriching and accessible experience for the entire community.
Times
The basics
- Booking details
Call 01335 350503
- Suitability
All families welcome.
- Meeting point
Activities will run from the riverside bell tent just off the accessible path by the bridge.
- What to bring and wear
Dress for the weather, that might mean sunhats or raincoats.
- Accessibility
The route to the Bell tent is fully accessible. 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.
- 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: Highlighted Event: Bruce Asbestos’s Mole Hole Installation
Ilam Park is thrilled to announce an exciting partnership with the acclaimed contemporary artist Bruce Asbestos, bringing a vibrant and imaginative new artwork inspired by our stunning landscape.
Ilam Park: Go on a Mole Mission
Go on a Mole Mission and explore Ilam Park and see where Pepperpot the Mole has been popping up. Uncover fun mole facts along the way—it’s free and full of surprises!
Ilam Park: Highlighted Event: Summer of Play
Bigger and better than ever, 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!
Annual Highlight: Summer at Ilam Park
Nestled in the rolling hills, next to the pristine river Manifold, come and enjoy the beautiful Ilam Park this summer. We’re excited to be pulling out all the stops and filling the calendar with a wide range of wonderful events all for free!