Family-friendly things to do at Upton House and Gardens

Sense and explore in winter

10 January - 15 March, 10am - 5pm. Normal admission applies. 

Use all your senses in Upton's outdoors this winter season with this slow-looking resource for little explorers. Pick up a copy of the 'Sense and explore' winter resource from Visitor Reception with sensory activities to complete during and after your visit.

 

Easter egg hunt at Upton House and Gardens

28 March - 12 April, 10am - 4pm. Normal admission applies and £3.50 per child. No pre-booking needed. 

This spring, treat the whole family to a world of adventure at Upton House and Gardens on an Easter trail. Make your way along the trail and find activities for the whole family. Each trail includes an Easter trail sheet, bunny ears and dairy or vegan and Free From* chocolate egg.

*Suitable for people with milk, egg, gluten, peanut and tree nut allergies.

 

Create your own portrait makeover

30 May - 7 June, 11am - 2pm.  Normal admission applies and £2 per child. 

Make over the portrait of Martin Ruzé and create your own fun mask. Explore the galleries at Upton House this May half term and see the portrait that Frans Pourbus the Younger painted of the distinguished 16th-century French politician.

Experiment with art materials to give the portrait a makeover when you create your own Martin Ruzé mask. Be as bold as you dare! Reveal the new look to your friends and family and pose for a selfie at the Martin Ruzé selfie station.

 

Summer evening jazz - Great Central Big Band

Saturday 4 July. Adult £18.50, Child £11.50, two adults and three children £50. Pre booking essential.

Join us for a magical evening of Big Band music in Upton’s beautiful outdoor setting. Featuring an irresistible mix of swing, Latin rhythms, timeless classics, and more!

The Great Central Big Band returns with an irresistible mix of musical styles — from iconic swing-era hits to classic and modern favourites you’re sure to recognise, plus lively Latin numbers guaranteed to get your toes tapping. Enjoy this unforgettable open‑air concert on Upton’s beautiful South Lawn. Bring a picnic, lay out a blanket, and get ready to sing along under the evening sky!

 

Music on the Lawn

2, 9, 16, 23, 30, 31 August, 12pm - 2pm. Normal admission applies. 

Enjoy live music in the intimate outdoor setting of Upton House and Gardens every Sunday this August, and Bank Holiday Monday. Performances will include songs and music from the jazz era and beyond and will take place on the south terrace at the rear of the house.

 

Pirates of Penzance by Illyria

Saturday 8 August, 6pm - 8.30pm. Adult £18.50, Child £11.50. Pre- booking essential. 

Ahoy, landlubbers and lovers of laughter! Award-winning Illyria returns with this Gilbert & Sullivan favourite. Grab your picnic blankets, sharpen your wit, and prepare to set sail for an evening of high‑spirited hijinks! Running time: 120 minutes (approximately), including a 20-minute interval. Suitable for all ages.