Family-friendly things to do at Paycocke's

A family of four rest on the grass in front of Paycocke's House, Essex — Enjoy time in the gardens as a family at Paycocke's House, Essex | © Elliot Neale

Nestled in the village of Coggeshall, Paycocke's House and Gardens offers families a charming escape into history and nature. Explore the beautifully preserved Tudor rooms and stroll through the serene gardens, where children can discover hidden nooks, vibrant blooms and a selection of garden games. It's a perfect spot for a day of shared discovery and lasting memories.

Planning your family visit

Here's the information you need at a glance to make the most of your family day out at Paycockes:

Baby changing facilities are located near garden entrance and toilet on first floor of the house
The house ground floor and garden is accessible to pushchairs
A selection of family-friendly games can often be found in the gardens or in the house, check our events page for details

Family things to do all year round

In the Solar Room

We have a range of original old books and games for hands-on fun. Have a go at Bagatelle, Shove Ha'penny, Snakes and Ladders, and Bar Skittles; help to build a jigsaw; get down on the rug with the toys; and read the books. You can also play with an old telephone.

Paycocke's Garden Trail

The garden trail is the perfect way to get to grips with nature and to have fun as a family. The trail helps explorers to find out more about our house and garden.

Garden games

The lawn is the perfect setting for some authentic garden games. Our croquet set is always out in good weather and is fun for all ages. If you fancy a challenge, try the quoits game and see how far away you can score with your hoop.

Two children enjoy playing with traditional toys in the Solar room at Paycocke's House, Essex | © Elliot Neale

Family Friendly Events

Summer of Play

Finished for 2024

Enjoy simple summer pleasures as a family at Paycocke’s House where the cottage garden is a haven for little ones to picnic, explore and play. Discover a fun selection of games and activities or marvel at the stunning summer blooms. When you're finished, be sure to grab a coffee, cream tea or sweet treat from the tea-room.

Family Free-Flow Days

Finished for 2024

During school holidays, on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, the house will be open for you to visit at your own pace, with family-focussed facts and activities in every room.

Visit Coggeshall

Explore Coggeshall, a town overflowing with character and home to Paycocke’s.

Look out for

Coggeshall Grange Barn Just under half a mile from Paycocke's stands one of Europe's oldest timber-framed buildings, often described as 'cathedral like'.
The Abbey The remains of a 12th-century Cistercian Abbey complex founded by King Stephen in 1140. The monks chose this site for its peaceful surroundings and proximity to the river.
Coggeshall Museum Home to a variety of village treasures including a fine collection of Coggeshall lace.
Parish church of St Peter ad Vincula Built in the early 15th century and funded by wealthy wool merchants, this church is one of the largest in the area. Look for the Paycocke’s merchant mark.
River Blackwater Feed the ducks and soak up the tranquillity surrounding the river Blackwater.
Market Place Browse the boutiques and independent shops that dot the high street. Visit the market which runs each Thursday.

Sunlight bathes the great hall and main staircase of Paycocke's House, Essex

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Booking your visit to Paycocke's House

Explore the unexpected at Paycocke’s. Entry to the house is by guided tours, led by passionate and knowledgeable volunteers, which will reveal the hidden treasures and stories of the house. To guarantee your preferred time slot you may wish to book a tour in advance. Find out how, here.

A young visitor stands under a hedge arch at Paycocke's House, Essex

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Explore Paycocke's garden

Discover how an overgrown industrial yard is now an Arts and Crafts garden, featuring plants that would have been grown over the previous five centuries of the house’s existence.

A view of Paycocke's, Essex, on street level

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Visiting Paycocke's

Uncover the story behind Paycocke’s House, a glorious example of Tudor craftmanship with quaint beamed rooms. There’s so much to discover here in this unique merchant’s home.

Visitor looking at the fireplace in the Panelled Dining Room at Paycocke's House and Garden, Essex

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The history of Paycocke's

Paycocke’s has an intriguing history spanning more than 500 years. Constructed in 1509, it has witnessed a religious reformation and survived a civil war.

A National Trust staff member sprinkles chocolate on a freshly made cappuccino in the tear-room at at Paycocke's House

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Eating at Paycocke's

Visit our tea room for a light lunch or tea and cake stop during your visit to Paycocke’s.

A view of the exterior of Grange Barn in Coggeshall, Essex

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Visit Paycocke's sister property Grange Barn

One of Europe’s oldest timber-framed buildings, Grange Barn stands as a lasting reminder of the once-powerful Coggeshall Abbey. With oak pillars soaring up to a cathedral-like roof, bearing the weight of centuries, it was saved and restored in the 1980s. This 13th-century building has truly stood the test of time.