Family-friendly things to do at Mottisfont

Planning your family visit

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

• Baby-changing facilities in access-friendly toilets are located at the welcome centre, stables, lower corridor in the house and kitchen garden
• Pushchairs are welcome everywhere except inside the house. There are gently-sloping areas and wide pathways around much of the grounds. Pathways are uneven in some places so sturdy, all-terrain tyres are recommended
• Drinks, snacks and light lunches with family-friendly options are available from the café and additional outlets, with indoor and outdoor seating areas and picnic benches around the grounds
• Breastfeeding is welcome anywhere around the property.

There's no need to book, but Mottisfont may get very busy during school holidays and bank holidays. Mornings tend to be busier than afternoons. If you have the flexibility, a weekday visit is generally quieter than a weekend, even during school holidays. If you can only visit over the weekend, Saturdays are usually less busy than Sundays.

What do you need to know when visiting the garden?

• Toddler push-along bikes operated by a parent/guardian are welcome, but please be aware that bikes, trikes and scooters are not allowed
• There are areas of open water around the garden and grounds so close supervision is strongly advised
• Please don't bring windbreakers, gazebos, pop-up tents, parasols or barbecues.  

 

A Nutcracker Christmas 

23 November 2024 - 5 January 2025

Experience the timeless magic of the Nutcracker at Mottisfont this Christmas, with a decorated house and family trail inspired by Tchaikovsky's famous ballet.

Collect your ticket at the ‘Box Office’ then follow the story through rooms filled with sparkling trees, music and special light effects. Snowflakes swirl in a frosty wonderland, a giant cake stand laden with treats revolves in the Kingdom of Sweets, and there’s a thrilling duel scene between the Prince and the villainous Mouse King.

Fun projections of mice, ballet dancers, and Nutcrackers glide across the walls, and upstairs there’s a delightful sleigh and snow scene – perfect for family photos. 

Property admission applies (free for National Trust members, Art Fund members and under 5s), plus suggested donation for the trail. A timed ticket system is in place for the house; collect your entry time upon arrival. Property closed 24 & 25 December.