Family-friendly things to do at Castle Drogo

A family exploring the gardens at castle drogo, The two little boys are running ahead of their sister and mother — Summer of play | © James Beck

Have a family adventure at Castle Drogo whatever the season. Discover a host of family-friendly activities to take part in, from outdoor challenges to garden trails and more.

Pushchairs and baby carriers

It's not possible to take pushchairs or large baby carriers (worn on the back) around the castle. There are a lot of stairs that make it unsuitable for pushchairs, and large back carriers pose a risk to the collection. There is a covered pushchair parking area close to the castle, we can also offer hip carriers, ask one of our team of volunteers in the Entrance hall.

Family fun in 2024

Autumn half term

Join us in the October half term for a tour around the gardens featuring local myths and legends, before showing off your magical flourishes with magic tricks inside the castle!

Let's go fly a kite

Throughout September and October you can borrow a kite from our Visitor centre and fly it on Piddledown common. Ask one of the Visitor welcome team on arrival.

In the Castle

As you explore the castle look out for the knitted pets of Castle Drogo. From the Drewe families beloved dog Trusty to the castle’s current resident feline Dilly, pets have always been part of the castle’s history. Ask one of the team on entry into the castle for further information.

Rainy days at Castle Drogo

Sometimes the Dartmoor weather can be a little unkind but don't worry, there's still plenty to keep famalies entertained . Inside the castle you can hunt for the knitted pets of the Drewe's, or explore the sensory items around the castle. Head up to the nursery to play with the dolls house, please note we try and open the nursery most days but are dependant on our volunteers to do so.

Planning your family visit

Here is the information you need at a glance to help plan your next day out to Castle Drogo:

Baby-changing facilities are available in visitor reception
Buggy friendly routes are available around the garden
Hip-carrying infant seats available for loan in the house
Children’s menu available from Café
Pocket money gifts and children’s books available in the shop.
Bikes, scooters and ball games are not allowed in the grounds.
Dogs are welcome in some areas of the property. Follow the link to find out more about visiting with your dog.

Family-friendly things to do in the garden

The garden has lots of paths to explore, follow Mr Drewe's path for impressive views across the Teign Gorge. Or, follow the path through the Rhododendron Garden and feel like you’re in a secret garden. For those with a bit of energy to burn, head to the circular lawn, the perfect place to have a run around. Why not see how long it takes to run all the way around the edge?

Get closer to nature

Each season we have a different spotter sheet for the garden. You can pick one up from the visitor reception and see what signs of nature you can spot.

'50 things to do before you're 11¾'

Can you tick these off your '50 things' list at Castle Drogo?

No. 4 Build a den: Test your wilderness skills and have a go at building a den. There is lots of excellent woodland around the Teign Gorge perfect for building a den. Always remeber to not disturb and wildlife and leave no trace.
No. 31 Make friends with a bug: Find some dead wood or a nice big stick turn it over and see what creepy crawlies are livig there.
No. 44 Watch a bird: The Teign Gorge is home to many bird varieties. Listen out for the songbirds and the unmistakeable tap of the woodpecker. Out on the gorge there are often buzzrds and ravens soaring over head.