Family events coming up this summer...

 

Summer of Play throughout the school holidays

19 July to 14 September

Summer of Play is back at Polesden Lacey from 19 July to 14 September. Spend long summer days enjoying games and activities in Crab Apple Orchard, inspired by the work carried out by the rangers and gardeners who look after Polesden Lacey's outside spaces. Ride on mini tractors in the Tiny Explorer toddler zone, play at the bean bag toss, try a game of ranger-versus-gardener Top Trumps and let off steam clambering over our hay bales - returning this year by popular demand. Booking not required and the games are free. Summer of Play is sponsored by Starling Bank.

We're Going on a Bear Hunt

6 September to 9 November

We're Going on a Bear Hunt is coming to Polesden Lacey this autumn. Get ready to swish, scramble and squelch your way through a fun family trail in the grounds, based on the much-loved children's book. Runs daily, free after normal admission has been paid. Licensed by Walker Productions Ltd. on behalf of Bear Hunt Films Ltd.

Croquet

Weekends and bank holidays until end September

The croquet lawns at Polesden Lacey are available for public hire at weekends and Bank Holiday until late September. £10 per court, per hour (includes mallets and balls). Book at visitor reception or by calling 01372 452048 or email polesdenlacey@nationaltrust.org.uk. Children's sized mallets available.

More summer events to enjoy

Find out what else is happening at Polesden Lacey over the summer and later in the year by taking a look at our events page: Events at Polesden Lacey

Kestrel Corner play area

Open daily

Kestrel Corner is a natural play area made using wood from the Polesden Lacey estate. Enjoy the slides, tunnels and giant nests as you embrace your inner animal and get closer to nature over the summer holidays. The play area is perfect for children to be active, with a rabbit’s warren, a giant bird’s nest and a buried fox den. It’s built from wood and other natural materials and provides all the inspiration a child needs to have a great time experiencing the outdoors. A place for imaginations to run wild.

Find out more

 

Family-friendly things to do in the gardens

The gardens are filled with striking seasonal views, with plenty of different plants and trees to spot as you explore. Look out for beautiful summer flowers coming out in bloom all over the gardens and grounds. How many can you identify?

Picnic benches are available in Crab Apple Orchard, or head over to South Lawn to enjoy some lunch outdoors or an ice cream during the summer holidays.

Small bikes and scooters are allowed in the pleasure grounds, as well as ball games and kite flying. Please make sure you're mindful of other visitors while playing games.

Visiting the house with children

Families are welcome to wander around the house - a great way to keep everyone entertained on rainy days. Most of the downstairs is as it was in Margaret Greville’s day, with sumptuous interiors from the stunning décor in the gold Saloon to the inviting library and intimate tea room. Margaret Greville's extensive collection of books, ceramics, objets d’art and paintings are beautifully displayed throughout.

Unfortunately, buggies are not allowed in the house, please park them outside while you visit. Hip carriers are available to borrow. If you ask a member of staff at the house doors, they will be happy to help. 

‘50 things to do before you're 11¾’ activities

No. 4 Build a den

There are lots of perfect den building spots to be discovered at Polesden Lacey. What will your den be? A meeting place for spies, a fairy castle or perhaps a bear’s den? 

No. 34 Discover wild animal clues

Badgers, squirrels, rabbits and more - there are lots of different things that you can search for when you're on the trail of an animal at Polesden Lacey. Look out for footprints, fur and poo, and you might find something sooner than you think.

No. 50 Take a friend on a nature adventure

Double your fun by sharing your next nature adventure with a friend. Explore your secret wildlife hideouts together and make the great outdoors your new playground.

No 33: Go cloud watching

Head to the sloping South Lawn, lie back and watch the clouds go by. Delve into your imagination to create whole worlds, and the tall tales that might take place there, from the shapes you see in the clouds.

Download all 50 things to do before you’re 11 ¾ here.