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Family-friendly things to do at The Children's Country House at Sudbury

Two children look at notecards as they take part in an activity inside Sudbury Hall
Children taking part in an activity in the Hall. | © National Trust Images/Annapurna Mellor

With children at the heart of The Children's Country House at Sudbury, there is always something to discover, explore and learn on your visit to this award winning property.

The Children’s Country House at Sudbury is designed especially for families, making it a great day out, whatever the weather. Explore the historic country home of the Vernon family in the hall, take a journey through childhood in the museum, or explore in the garden.

Planning your Visit

  • Planning your visit has never been easier, as there is no need to pre-book anymore - just arrive on the day.
  • Pushchair friendly paths from the car park to the property.
  • Baby changing facilities.
  • Buggystore for prams, pushchairs, bikes, scooters.
  • Free wheelchair accessible vehicle transfer from the property to the car park, and return.
  • The property is open during most school holidays, and Friday to Monday in term time (the hall is closed on Fridays in term time).

Escape into Autumn at The Children's Country House at Sudbury

Escape into Autumn at The Children's Country House at Sudbury from September to 4 November. Take part in garden trails, escape into the outdoors and crunch through fallen leaves in the Bluebell Wood. Throughout the Autumn, take a glimpse into Conversation in Action throughout the Hall and why not book an attics tour and explore spaces not usually open to the public?

A Spooktacular Halloween | 30 & 31 October 2024 | Free Event (general admission applies).

On 30 and 31 October 2024, join in with Halloween fun at The Children's Country House at Sudbury as our Victorian Schoolroom transforms into a Ghoul School with a series of lessons taking place throughout the day. The Children's Country House's team of skilled storytellers are also sharing a range of spooky stories in the Beer Cellar at 11:00am and 12:30pm on both days.

Visitors in the garden in front of the hall at Sudbury Hall and the National Trust Museum of Childhood, Derbyshire
Visitors in the garden at Sudbury Hall and the National Trust Museum of Childhood | © National Trust Images/Steve Franklin
Two children playing a game in the Long Gallery at The Children's Country House at Sudbury.
Children playing in the Long Gallery. | © National Trust Images/Annapurna Mellor

Explore the Hall

Inside the Hall you can explore the Hall of Wonder and The World Below. Partake in some dancing in the Saloon, have some quiet time with a book in the library or practice your deportment in the Long Gallery. Why not venture through the Bedroom Corridor, newly opened for 2024.

The Museum of Childhood

Wander freely through the Museum of Childhood, and learn of the challenges of childhood across the centuries. Our award-winning museum welcomes children and families to explore, seek and connect with history through our objects, activities, Victorian Classroom and popular chimney.

The Gardens

Picnic, play and connect with nature in Sudbury's gardens. Build dens in the Bluebell Wood, have a mindful moment and discover your inner-explorer in the play area.

Mystery Rooms

Available on a first come, first serve basis on the day of your visit*, take a leap back into World War 2 as a child evacuee in our Mystery Rooms experience. Designed for young minds, this experience is open to families and children, fostering teamwork and problem-solving.

*Subject to volunteer availability.

Fairytale Forest Café

The Fairytale Forest Café is open when the property is, serving a selection of hot and cold drinks, scrumptious snacks and light meals. Ideal for refuelling after a busy day. The café provides indoor and outdoor seating, with shelter and in the hotter months, we're pleased to provide snacks and drinks from our catering van in the Stableyard.

Ice Cream Parlour

New for 2024, we're pleased to provide an ice cream parlour for visitors. With an array of flavours from the local Bluebells Dairy, why not stop by and treat yourself to a scoop this summer?

South-west end of Sudbury Hall in autumn Derbyshire
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The Gardens at The Children's Country House 

Explore the Garden and explore, admire and connect with the beauty of nature.

Visitors in the garden in front of the hall at Sudbury Hall and the National Trust Museum of Childhood, Derbyshire
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Things to See and Do at The Children's Country House at Sudbury 

Enjoy a leisurely visit to The Children’s Country House at Sudbury. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a garden lover or seeking a retreat, there’s something special at this late 17th century house for everyone to enjoy.