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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

Easter Egg Hunt at Ickworth Estate 

This spring, treat the whole family to a world of adventure at Ickworth Estate on an Easter trail.

Event summary

on
5 Apr to 12 Apr 2026
at 10:00 to 15:30+ 7 other dates or times

An Introduction to Ickworth Tour 

Join the team caring for Ickworth's treasures to discover more about the Hervey family and their collection.

Event summary

on
5 Apr to 1 Nov 2026
at 10:45 to 11:30+ 120 other dates or times

The Bridge-Builder: Ickworth’s Irish Connection 

Based on brand-new research, this exhibition explores the Earl-Bishop’s life in Ireland in the 18th-century. Littered with turmoil and tension, this chapter left the Earl-Bishop with a surprisingly positive legacy in Ireland. Join us to find out why…

Event summary

on
5 Apr to 13 Jul 2026
at 11:00 to 15:00+ 99 other dates or times

A Life Below Stairs Tour 

Hear the stories of the servants who lived and worked at Ickworth as you discover the hustle and bustle that went on below stairs.

Event summary

on
6 Apr to 30 Oct 2026
at 10:45 to 11:30+ 59 other dates or times