Looking for the perfect family escape this summer? Nestled in the heart of the Yorkshire countryside, the National Trust’s Beningbrough Hall offers a magical blend of history, nature, and play that promises to delight visitors of all ages.
🌿 Explore, discover, and play
Beningbrough is more than a country estate – it’s a playground for the imagination. Kids can unleash their inner adventurers in the wilderness play area, complete with a 7-metre pyramid tower, bucket swings, and a den-building zone that’s perfect for creative minds and energetic legs. For younger explorers, there’s a Wendy house and gentle climbing frames, while older children can test their skills on the cantilever swing and clamber stack.
🎲 Step into history with the “Good day, bad day” trail
Running until 31 August, the “Good day, bad day” servant’s trail invites families to step into the shoes of Beningbrough’s historic staff. Spin the wheel to find out if your day as a kitchen maid or groom is going smoothly—or not! With three levels of challenge, this interactive trail is perfect for all ages, and even adults can join in the fun.
🎨 Wednesdays just got more exciting
From 23 July to 27 August, Summer of Play Wednesdays bring themed activity days to life, Sponsored by Starling Bank. Whether it’s hands-on conservation in the hall, nature crafts in the garden, or wildlife adventures with the Tansy Beetle Action Group, there’s something new and memorable to try each week.
🌸 Gardens in bloom & picnic perfection
Take a break from the action and wander through Beningbrough’s evolving gardens, including the stunning new Mediterranean Garden designed by Andy Sturgeon. Then, find your perfect picnic spot – perhaps in the shaded laundry courtyard or on the expansive south lawn. Don’t forget to stop by the Brew House for a scoop of ice cream or a refreshing drink.
🐦 Dog walks & “50 things to do before you’re 11¾”
With 380 acres of parkland, Beningbrough is a haven for wildlife and young explorers. Try birdwatching, tree-hugging, or stick-based adventures as part of the National Trust’s “50 things to do before you’re 11¾” challenge. Or bring your dog along for a longer walk, the secret beach is a surprise place for a pit-stop part way round the longest walk on the estate.
🏛️ Rain or shine, there’s always more to see
If the weather turns, head indoors to explore the hall’s historic rooms, spot quirky carvings, or animals in tapestries and art. Imagine life in the Victorian laundry and potting shed, see if you have what it needed to be a maid or gardener. There’s even a second-hand bookshop in the hall library – perfect for a quiet moment or a new story to take home.
Plan your visit
Beningbrough is open daily during the summer holidays, with free parking and a range of family-friendly facilities including baby changing, accessible toilets, and picnic areas. National Trust members, RHS members and under-fives go free.
So pack your picnic, grab your sense of adventure, and head to Beningbrough this summer – where every path leads to a new discovery.
Dogs are welcome in most areas of the garden, but please keep them out of the play area for everyone’s enjoyment. This is a promotional feature in partnership with The National Trust. Photos © National Trust Chris Lacey / Rebecca Hughes / Paul Harris.
