Family-friendly things to do at Glendurgan Garden

Family at Glendurgan Garden | © John Millar

Whether you're sketching in the Apple Shed or getting lost in the maze, there are plenty of activities to keep the whole family entertained and help you create great memories together. Find out what's on offer and the details you need to plan your visit.

Glendurgan Garden is now closed.

Glendurgan Garden is now closed for winter. We look forward to welcoming you back 15 February 2025.

Planning your family visit

Baby-changing facilities.
Pushchairs and baby back-carriers admitted.
High chairs are available in the tea-house.
Pushchair-friendly route available without steps, however, does include steep slopes due to geography of the site.
Assistance dogs only.

Things to do with your family in the garden

Get back to nature in the Apple Shed

Visit the Apple Shed for nature-inspired activities like leaf rubbing and sketching. Discover the rich history of orchards and fruit production at Glendurgan, all while enjoying the peaceful orchard surroundings. Watch the busy insects dart by, and even have a go at trying on a beekeeping suit!

Attempt the maze

If you are feeling adventurous, head to the centre of the garden to get lost in the cherry laurel maze - see who can make it to the thatched summerhouse in the middle first.

After a five-year restoration project, the maze is ready for the many families who walk its paths each year.

Children playing on the rope swing in the garden at Glendurgan, Cornwall | © National Trust Images/John Millar

Take a Giant's Stride

The Giant’s Stride is a simple yet enjoyable rotating rope swing that is perfect for some family fun.

When you grab hold of the handles of this rotating rope swing and run faster and faster around the central pole, you'll take bigger and bigger strides. The more people striding round, the more fun it provides.

Like the maze, the Giant's Stride is also good for spectators too and this part of the garden is characterised by the laughter coming from this simple but enjoyable swing.

Come and see if you can take strides the size of a giant's, when you visit.

Holiday cottages on the beach near Glendurgan Garden, Cornwall — Holiday cottages on the beach near Glendurgan Garden | © National Trust Images/James Dobson

Things to do with your family on the beach

At the bottom of the valley you can access Durgan Beach, and look out for the old Fish Cellar where volunteers will be selling tasty ice creams to enjoy.

The beach is never short on options for family activities. Try skimming a stone, build a sandcastle, or enjoy your picnic on the sand with the sounds of the sea hitting the shore.

Find out more about how to skim a stone at the National Trust's ‘50 things to do before you're 11¾’ activity list.