Summer of Play 2025
Join us for a festival of play in the garden this summer.
- Booking not needed
- Free event (admission applies)
The gardens are transforming into a playground this summer with three themed play zones for all to enjoy.
Join us from 3 July and come back week on week as more zones get added around the grounds with endless fun to be had.
Challenge friends and family to lawn games on Green Court from 3 July, Knock down pins in a game of skittles, try your hand at giant dominoes, get competitive with snakes and ladders or get in some target practice with archery and much much more.
Step on stage and become a star in the performance zone from 10 July and let your imagination run wild and soak up the magic of the enchanted garden in the River Garden from 17 July.
Come back on 24 July to enjoy all the zones in one fun-filled day out with the addition of a labyrinth on the parkland. Who will find their way to the middle first?
Summer of play is sponsored by Starling Bank and supported by Sport England.
Times
Prices
Event ticket prices
This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.
Check admission pricesThe basics
- Suitability
Children welcome
- What to bring and wear
The terrain is steep and uneven in places. Please wear suitable footwear as the paths can get muddy.
- Accessibility
The terrain is steep and uneven in places. There is a courtesy vehicle that can take visitors from the car park to the castle. We have two trampers available to hire in a morning or afternoon slot. Please give us a call on 01643821314 to book.
Upcoming events
Victorian Kitchen Tours
Go behind the scenes and into the past with one of the knowledgeable volunteer guides.
Summer of Play | Bat Trail
Discover the garden and learn more about these fascinating creatures whilst soaking up the sunshine.
Summer of Play | Forest School Drop In
Enjoy drop-in crafting sessions in the River Garden with Forest Catkins.