Discover more at Barrington Court
Find out when Barrington Court is open, how to get here, the things to see and do and more.
Family-friendly things to do at Barrington Court
Lots of activities and space for family fun and learning at Barrington Court. See what's new to help plan your next visit.
What's coming up at Barrington Court
Let the imagination run wild with our volunteer-led Monday morning storytelling sessions for little ones. They take place every Monday during term time at 11am and 12noon in the 1920s farm buildings.
Summer lawn games and family fun
Families visiting Barrington Court can enjoy a lively programme of relaxed summer activities on the South Lawn, with space for informal races and traditional lawn games, plus plenty of opportunities for children to run, play and explore at their own pace. These easy, drop‑in activities make it simple to dip in and out of the fun throughout the day.
Festival of Archaeology and Heritage Explorer Challenge
For those keen to discover more about the estate, the Festival of Archaeology (18 July to 2 August) brings hands‑on experiences and opportunities to explore Barrington Court’s past. Families can take part in the self‑led Heritage Explorer Challenge, following clues across the grounds to uncover hidden features and stories that span from Roman times to the present day. It’s an engaging way to combine outdoor adventure with a bit of history, all at a pace that suits your visit.
Falconry displays
Adding a sense of spectacle to the summer programme, live falconry displays on 5 August on the South Lawn offer the chance to see birds of prey in flight. Led by professional falconers, these sessions give visitors the opportunity to learn more about these impressive animals and see them up close between displays, creating a memorable highlight for families exploring the gardens, orchards and wider estate.
Soft archery
For something a little different, families can have a go at soft archery during dedicated drop‑in sessions in August. Suitable for all ages, these relaxed sessions offer the chance to test your aim and see if you can hit the bull’s-eye, with friendly guidance on hand and no booking required—making it an easy activity to slot into your visit.
The Barrington Court adventure booklet
Pick up a booklet in Visitor Reception and uncover secret objects, spot secret bugs and find wild beast. The booklet is available in term time (including weekends).
When it rains
The book barn is always a good place to head if it's drizzling outside. The main Book Barn is currently being renovated, but you can still find a small, temporary Book Barn in the Farm Buildings.
The ground floor of Strode House reopened in June 2024 and here you can explore the historical timeline of Barrington Estate. Whilst wandering around the Lyles’ family home, take a moment to sit and sketch, or dance to some 1920s music. There is also the mystery of the missing parrot–will you be able to find Polly?
Beagles Café has indoor seating and a variety of options for refuelling before your next adventure.
Sensory backpacks to support families on self-led visits
Sensory backpacks are now available on loan and can be signed in and out at our visitor reception. The content of the backpacks has been designed to enhance the experience of the visitors especially those with autism and sensory processing disorder. Each standard pack has noise cancelling headphones (child size), sunglasses (child size), apple fidget toy, cuddly hand puppet, now/next/later board, and a crunch ball. There is also a selection of other pick ‘n’ mix items so that bags can be customised to suit individual needs.
Family-friendly things to do in the garden
Fun on the South Lawn
When you see the huge stretch of green grass that reaches out from the house to the boundary of the ha-ha, you’ve found the South Lawn. It’s great place with space to enjoy, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the changing seasons in the garden and countryside.
Bringing your wheels to Barrington Court
If you love riding your scooters, tricycles and bikes, then head to the Avenue. The garden paths and lawns are fragile and narrow in places and you can help us conserve them by keeping wheels away. If in doubt, please check with a member of staff where you can ride.
Family-friendly things to do in the parkland
The cricket field offers a great spot for family frolics. Bring whatever games you fancy – whether you’ve got a frisbee, skipping rope, rounders set or, of course, a cricket bat and ball.
There are some lovely spots for picnics too, and don’t forget to follow the winding paths in the little copse for a woodland adventure.
'50 things to do before you're 11¾’
The parkland is also a great place to do some of the ‘50 things to do before you're 11¾’ activities. Here are some ideas:
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Things to see and do in the garden at Barrington Court
Explore the garden of Barrington Court throughout the seasons. See the fruit and produce growing in the Kitchen Garden or enjoy the tranquillity and beautiful borders of formal, walled garden areas.
Eating and shopping at Barrington Court
Fuel up at Barrington Court’s café, find a souvenir at the shop, browse pre-loved page turners at the Book Barn, and discover local artists at the craft studios.
‘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’.
Family-friendly places to visit
Looking for a family day out that'll keep everyone entertained? Find things to do with the kids at the places we care for near you.
Family-friendly places in Somerset
There's all sorts for families to do around Somerset, from visiting a natural pier to running across the grass. Start planning your day out for the family to enjoy.
