Skip to content

Family-friendly things to do at Nostell

Children in bright clothing running on the path in front of the Rose Garden and fountain at Nostell
Space to run free and explore the gardens and orchard | © Annapurna Mellor

Nostell is the perfect place for a family adventure - from exploring beautiful summer gardens and wild woodlands to uncovering secrets in the historic house, come and enjoy a full day out in West Yorkshire.

Planning your family visit

A smiley child standing amongst daffodils in the sunny woodland wearing bunny ears and holding an Easter trail activity sheet
Gather your bunnies together for an outdoor adventure in nature | © Nick Singleton

Easter egg trail in the gardens at Nostell

28 March - 12 April 11am-5pm

Make your way along the trail and find activities for the whole family to try. Follow the map and try out ten activities in the gardens, from egg and spoon and sack races to build your own obstacle courses - there's something for everyone to enjoy. Prices are £3.50 per trail which 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.

Find out more

Easter in the house

28 March - 12 April 11am - 4pm

Step into a playful Easter adventure as you follow the Easter Bunny and his woodland friends through the rooms of Nostell. Spot hidden eggs, meet mischievous animal characters and discover the conservation secrets that help us care for this historic home.

Drop into the workshop to make your own little pop-up bunny crafts (will run most days, exact days still to be confirmed).

Parkland fun 

Explore Joiner’s Wood for wild play and den building. Pick up a spotter sheet and see if you can find all the wooden painted eggs hidden around the trees.
Bring bikes too, there are two 1km cycle trails, the green route is perfect for little legs. The parkland is free to access (£5 parking all day). 

Don’t miss:
Head to the café and shop for seasonal treats… including an Almond Simnel scone of the month!

Family fun in the gardens

Adventures in the house

Step into a world of stories and secrets. Our historic house isn’t just for grown-ups,  it’s a place where imaginations run wild, and families can explore together. Discover hidden treasures, unravel fascinating tales, and make memories as a family. Its also a great option for a rainy afternoon.

Ready to explore?

  • Follow our new family trail to discover more about Nostell’s stories and secrets. Join Simon the Dolls’ House Footman as he shows you around the house, introducing you to the people who called Nostell home and sharing some surprising stories! Look out for the pick-up trail boards as you explore.
  • Step into a world of dreams where every bed is fit for royalty. Imagine drifting off to sleep surrounded by grand canopies, luxurious linens, and stories of old whispered through the walls. Whether your little one dreams of being a princess, a daring knight, or a bold adventurer, our historic bedrooms are the perfect place to let their imaginations soar.
  • Come and look at Nostell’s amazing Dolls’ House. Full of tiny furniture and beautifully dressed dolls, it is also home to a tiny glass mouse. He likes to move around so see where you can spot him.
  • Stop off in the Housekeeper’s Room to try hands-on activities. There are puzzles to complete, or you can try your hand at designing your own Georgian-inspired room with our magnetic Dolls’ House.
  • Watch out for craft activities in the house around school holiday time.
An adult and a young boy riding their bikes on a path at Nostell Priory
Explore the parkland on two wheels | © National Trust Images/John Millar

Explore the parkland

Planning for a rainy day?

Avoid a passing shower with a swift retreat into the second-hand book shop or cosy up with a hot drink or sweet treat in the cafe.

The playground is under the woodland canopy which offers some shelter but, of couse, you can just bring your wellies and enjoy a good old splash in the puddles and stomp in the mud. 

You might also be interested in

Things to see in the gardens at Nostell 

Discover edible delights in the kitchen garden, unwind beside the orangery or escape to the menagerie garden before exploring the winding paths of the pleasure grounds.

Looking down the long spring flower borders with the back of the fountain statue in the foreground

Visiting Nostell with your dog 

Nostell is a two pawprint rated place. Find out how to make the most of your visit to Nostell with your dog and why you and your canine friend will enjoy taking in the Yorkshire air here.

Two visitors walking a dog with Obelisk Lodge at Nostell Priory in the background

Eating and shopping at Nostell 

Visit the Courtyard Café with its range of seasonal treats, then head to the National Trust shop, where there’s a range of products inspired by the places we care for.

A member of staff smiles as she pours steamed milk for a customer at the Courtyard Café at Nostell Priory