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A family looking out over the lake with the Pantheon in the distance at Stourhead, Wiltshire
By the lake at Stourhead, Wiltshire | © National Trust Images/Trevor Ray Hart

Family-friendly places in Wiltshire

Ancient landscapes, world-famous gardens and outdoor adventures await in Wiltshire. Why not visit somewhere new with the family?

Summer of Play

Ready for a fun-filled summer? Take part in Summer of Play throughout the summer holidays, sponsored by Starling Bank, and create memories with the whole family. However you choose to play, your adventure starts today

A family looking out over the lake with the Pantheon in the distance at Stourhead, Wiltshire

Stourhead 

Join us throughout July and August for endless fun at the Stableyard and the Summer of Play Meadow. Scramble up the mighty straw castle, aim for gold at the archery range, or race through the meadow maze to find the hidden camp. 10:00 - 16:00, from 5 July to 2 September

A family plays near the sun sculpture in the centre of the parkland, Lacock Abbey. It is summer, the sun is shining and the children smile towards the camera.

Lacock 

Follow the paths through the summer grass and let your imaginations run wild at Lacock Abbey. Den-building, craft-making, barefoot walking, mud pie-baking, match-winning and make-believing: how will you play this summer holiday? 10:00 - 17:00, from 19 July to 31 August

A family searching for trail clues in the garden of Avebury Manor

Avebury 

This summer at Avebury, there will be lots of free activities for families to get involved in. Pick up your free summer map at visitor reception to learn more and discover a wide range of different playful experiences awaiting you! 10:00 - 17:00, from 19 July to 31 August

A close-up of a family sitting at a picnic bench wearing sunglasses at Mottisfont

Mompesson 

Get active with the garden games such as croquet and quoits; get creative with the art materials; and get imaginative with the toys in the garden at Mompesson House this summer. Play equipment will be available, and our walled garden is the perfect space for young (and young at heart) to play. 11:00 - 16:00, from 25 July to 2 September

Places to visit with the family

Discover all the best places to bring the family for great days out this season.

Family exploring the garden at Stourhead, Wiltshire
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Stourhead 

A world famous garden packed with temples, grottos, trees and water features, just waiting for little legs to explore.

A family explore the parkland at Lacock, two adults look on as two children play at the base of an old tree, a willow sculpture representing the sun in its branches.
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Lacock 

There are lots of things at Lacock for families to enjoy all year round. With a busy programme of activities from family crafts to the magic of live theatre, find out more about what you could discover on your next visit.

Two adults and two children make their way through the gate at Avebury, Wiltshire
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Avebury 

With lots of space, fresh air and history all around, Avebury is a perfect place to bring the family - whatever the time of year.

Two girls enter Mompesson House through the front door.
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Mompesson House 

Count the hidden faces in the plasterwork, imagine yourself back in time and check out the creaky staircase.

'50 things to do before you're 11¾, come rain or shine

Two children in coats and wellies walk along the path with umbrellas up towards East Riddlesden Hall, Yorkshire
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Top ‘50 things to do before you’re 11¾’ activities to do when it’s raining 

We've compiled a selection of items from the ‘50 things to do before you’re 11¾’ list that are perfect for rainy days, so grab your waterproofs and get involved.

Children enjoy a swing at Osterley Park and House, London
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Top ‘50 things to do before you’re 11¾’ activities in summer 

Plan an adventure this summer with our activity guides for children. Try everything from floating in a boat, to rock-pooling, identifying animal poo and fossil hunting.

Two adults and a child look at the house, with its pediment supported by columns, at Stourhead, Wiltshire

Discover more in Wiltshire

World-famous gardens, villages and ancient landscapes, and some lesser-known gems can all be found in Wiltshire.