- Discover a world of adventure and play at 18 National Trust places across the South West
- From giant straw castles, bug nature zones, circus skill areas, lawn games and even a laundry labyrinth
- No need to pre-book
- Under 5s go FREE
- Summer of Play activities included within standard admission/FREE for National Trust members/guests of National Trust holidays
This summer, the National Trust’s much-loved Summer of Play, sponsored by Starling Bank, is back—bringing a family-friendly festival atmosphere to 175 National Trust places across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
Running throughout the school holidays, Summer of Play is jam-packed with playful experiences and family activities. Best of all, it’s included with standard admission (and free for National Trust members), with no need to pre-book—just turn up and join the fun.
Carl Greenman, the National Trust’s National Programming and Production Manager, said: “We know just how powerful it is when kids get the chance to play outside and connect with nature—it’s great for their health, happiness, and development. That’s why every summer, we throw open the gates to National Trust gardens, parks, and estates for Summer of Play. These spaces are brought to life by our amazing staff and volunteers, and they’re designed to spark imagination and adventure. It’s all about giving families the freedom to explore, play their own way, and make memories together.”
Michele Rousseau, CMO at Starling Bank said: “At Starling, we know how important it is for families to spend time together outdoors, exploring nature and discovering history. We’re proud to support the National Trust’s Summer of Play once again this year, which gives families these opportunities across the country."
To find your nearest Summer of Play experience visit:
nationaltrust.org.uk/summer-
And here’s just a small selection of the events on offer this summer in the South West;
Killerton, Devon
19 July—7 September
With six play zones to explore, there’s something for everyone at Killerton this summer. Burn off energy with frisbee golf and swingball, get creative with arts and crafts, or take the spotlight in the mini theatre. Discover bugs in the nature zone, then relax in the quiet area with giant bean bags and an outdoor library. Weekdays bring extra fun with sports, nature play, circus skills, storytelling, and more—whatever the weather!
Saltram, Plymouth.
19 July – 31 August
Join us for an action packed family Summer here at Saltram.
Ready, set… action! Saltram’s Summer of Play 2025 is bigger, bolder and full of fun.
This summer, step into the spotlight at the National Trust’s Saltram and enjoy a blockbuster day out with Summer of Play: Saltram on Screen.
Saltram’s garden will be transformed into a playful celebration of all things performance, imagination and adventure – perfect for young creatives, budding films stars or movie makers, and families ready to make magical memories in the summer sunshine.
Arlington Court, North Devon
7 July – 1 September
Visit Olde Arlington, a rambunctious place filled with laughter and fun and discover all the different people who kept a country estate running in the past. From checkers-playing tax collectors to sword-fighting bandits and a laundry labyrinth, there’s lots to explore (just don’t get lost in the maze).
Enjoy circus challenges, hobby horse races, water play, and quiet picnic spots among the gardens. With themed zones across the site and a summer book trail through the grounds and gardens there is plenty to explore.
Lorna Doone, North Devon
7 July – 31 August
Step into a summer of fun at the Field of Play in the Lorna Doone Valley. Challenge your friends and family to classic lawn games like croquet and boccia, or bounce your way to victory in a space hopper race around the track. Test your climbing skills in the wild play area and see who can reach the top of the frame the fastest. Prefer a slower pace? Stretch out on the grass and enjoy a moment of quiet reflection with some peaceful cloud watching.
Greenway, nr Brixham in South Devon
19 July – 3 September
Join us for a jam-packed summer that's full of ways to play at Greenway, from circus skills to balancing games and more. Discover every flavour of play at Greenway from Create, explore, move, wonder, make-believe. Try it all, find your favourite, come back again and again. Fun has no age limit and with a range of activities designed to test your skills, there'll be something for everyone to get stuck into. Inspired by a travelling circus, test your strength and balance, twist and bend with circus inspired yoga and try out your juggling skills.
Coleton Fishacre, Kingswear, South Devon
19 July – 3 September
Ahoy, explorers – it’s time to set sail and navigate your way through sunny adventures. Summer of Play is on every day from Summer at sea begins here. Embark on a hands-on adventure packed with challenges and problem-solving games. Explore sensory moments, get creative with building or spend lazy summer days in the hammocks and on the swing with a view a the sailors hangout. By the house, there's 1920's vintage games, from Battle Ships to Ludo and a giant version of Peggity - ideal for all the family.
Castle Drogo, nr Exeter, Devon
18 July – 07 September
There’s lots of fun to be had this summer at Castle Drogo as we turn back the clock to the 1970s.
From space hoppers to swingball, the gardens will be filled with classic 1970s toys and games for you to find and enjoy. Can you guess the mastermind sequence in less than two goes? How about winning against your friends in a Twister? There will be ten stations in the garden for nostalgic fun, alongside some 70s bits and pieces to spot as you wander around the house. It's guaranteed to be perfect for parents and kids alike.