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Kids enjoying Summer of Play activities at Fountains Abbey, Yorkshire
Kids playing at Fountains Abbey, Yorkshire | © National Trust Images/Rebecca Hughes

Summer of Play

Get outdoors this summer and enjoy unforgettable family adventures set against the backdrop of our historic houses and gardens.

Summer of Play 2026

This year, we’re celebrating play in all its forms. Summer of Play is packed with experiences and activities designed to spark imagination and inspire adventure. Whether you’re exploring nature, getting creative with hands-on crafts or stepping into the spotlight for a playful moment of performance, there’s something for every kind of explorer. You might find yourself testing your aim on an archery field, creating colourful mosaics or digging for hidden treasure. The real magic is in discovering what’s in store, with every property offering its own unique surprises, so every visit feels fresh, exciting and full of possibility.

Go on a Pokémon adventure 

Ready to unleash your energy? With help from Pokémon, you can make this summer one to remember. Find epic challenges, crafty activities and bucket-loads of outdoors play!

A brightly coloured graphic split into four quadrants. The largest, righthand quadrant has a bright green background and an image of a male child in a red waterproof jacket is grinning at the camera. Each other quadrant contains a Pokémon from the Pokémon TCG Mega Evolution Series.

Summer of Play prize draw 

To celebrate Summer of Play supported by Pokémon, we're offering you the chance to win 1 of 10 Pokémon Trading Card Game Elite Trainer Boxes. Pick up your sticker booklet at a Summer of Play event near you and enter before 23.59 on Sunday 6 September 2026 for your chance to win.

Children playing in the Walled Garden in August at Felbrigg Hall, Norfolk

Explorer Pass 

If you’re not a member, but want to visit regularly, why not consider our Explorer Pass? You can buy passes for the whole family for 4, 8, or 14 days and enjoy entry to most of the places in our care.

Families on the north lawn at Ickworth in spring.

Summer of Play events near you

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