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Summer of Play at Ickworth Estate

Endless possibilities to play await you at Ickworth Estate this summer. We're inviting you to transform the Walled Garden and reclaim it as a hub for families and friends to connect with nature and each other.

  • Booking not needed
  • Free event (admission applies)

We’re all about getting creative this year at Ickworth Estate, so head to our ‘Play’ Garden and you’ll be greeted with overflowing opportunities fill the long summer days. Explore a journey of play activities as you head to this area of the estate as you create, explore, move, wonder and make-believe. In the ‘Play’ Garden, lose track of time weaving through wild mazes, playing in mud kitchens, immersing yourself in the sensory garden, storytelling and performing on the Summer House stage. With many different activities, there’s plenty to excite all ages of children, and adults that are young at heart.

Times

Prices

Event ticket prices

This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.

Check admission prices

The basics

Suitability

Children are welcome

Meeting point

Self-led activities can be found on the path to the Walled Garden and inside the walls. Visit the Welcome Point on arrival for assistance on where to go on arrival.

What to bring and wear

Any activities will be outdoors, wear appropriate clothing and footwear.

Accessibility

Many of Ickworth Estate's footpaths are a mixture of loose and hard gravel, woodchip and grass and may be hard going with manual wheelchairs. The Multi-use trail to the Walled Garden is perfect for wheelchair users and pathways to the picnic areas the accessible.

Other

All activities are self-led on the journey to and inside the Walled Garden. Families can choose what they want to take part in on arrival.

Upcoming events

Behind the Shutters 

Explore the secrets of Ickworth's history and collections through a guided tour that takes you behind the scenes as winter conservation work takes over the Rotunda.

Event summary

on
30 Jan to 13 Feb 2026
at 11:15 to 12:00+ 54 other dates or times

Active Ickworth: Social Walk 

Join one of our new social walks and meet up with likeminded individuals as you enjoy a short walk around the beautiful grounds at Ickworth Estate.

Event summary

on
3 Feb to 23 Jun 2026
at 10:30 to 11:30+ 10 other dates or times

February Half Term: Indoor Adventure Golf 

Join us for a game of indoor crazy golf this February Half Term.

Event summary

on
14 Feb to 22 Feb 2026
at 10:00 to 10:30+ 80 other dates or times

Costumed Interpretation 

Immerse yourself in Ickworth's servants' quarters as our team of costumed volunteers bring the world of the 1930s life. Chat to them about the highs and lows of working in ‘the big house’ and enjoy whole-family fun.

Event summary

on
22 Feb to 15 Mar 2026
at 11:00 to 15:00+ 1 other date or time