Family-friendly things to do at Gawthorpe Hall
A superb Jacobean historic house set in over 40 acres of woodland, you’ll find fun and adventures for children of all ages at Gawthorpe Hall.
Planning your family visit
- Baby changing facilities are located in the ladies and gents visitor washrooms located next to the barn.
- Picnic area with tables is located in the barn walled courtyard.
- Children under 16 go free (with accompanying adult).
- Scooters/balance bikes/trikes are permitted throughout the estate, except for in the immediate vicinity of the hall (inside the 5 bar gate).
- Natural outdoor play area with plenty of materials for den building.
- Over 40 acres of woodland to explore.
- Family-friendly activities to do in the Hall.
- Dogs are welcome in the gardens and woodland areas, but we ask they are kept under close control on leads. Assistance dogs are welcome in the Hall.
- The Hall is not suitable for baby backpacks, pushchairs or large bags.
Family friendly events
With lots of events on at Gawthorpe Hall, there’s something for all ages to enjoy.
Family-friendly things to do in the grounds
There's plenty of places to enjoy some quality time outdoors with your family at Gawthorpe Hall.
Woodland
With over 40 acres of woodland to discover, there’s lots of outdoor activities and wildlife to experience with the whole family. From discovering different species of birds and creepy crawlies, to embarking on a scavenger hunt and den building, it’s a great way to get children exploring the natural world. Discover an abundance of woodland birds – the nuthatch, greater spotted woodpecker, blue and great tit, little owls and tawny owls, as well as moorhens, roe deer and the occasional hare.
Garden
After exploring the woods, how about a stroll around the formal garden with its stunning views of the River Calder. The ornamental terraced garden to the north of the hall and landscaped garden to the south are an ideal place to set up a picnic, whilst you soak up the views.
Natural play area
Suitable for children of all ages, we promise hours of fun at Gawthorpe’s natural play area. Skip along woodland paths and play hide 'n' seek, as your younger ones run wild and get closer to the natural landscape.
Circular walk
This circular walk takes you through the historic parkland of Gawthorpe Hall. You'll travel along the Bronte Way, past the ancient woodland of Hagg Wood and onto the low-level walk beside the River Calder. Then walk along the Burnley Way which will take you through Grove Lane Plantation. Find out more here - Gawthorpe Hall Circular Walk, Lancashire | National Trust
Family-friendly things to do in the hall
Wander inside and discover the history of the Elizabethan Gawthorpe Hall and discover rooms filled with Victorian Gothic furnishings and decoration. Embark on a trail around the house or play dress up in the nursery. There’s also toys, books and colouring sheets available too for you to enjoy.
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Things to do at Gawthorpe Hall
Get up close to the Elizabethan architecture and period interiors inside Gawthorpe Hall, then enjoy a stroll through its formal garden.
Visiting Gawthorpe Hall with your dog
Gawthorpe Hall is a one pawprint rated place. Dogs on leads are more than welcome in most areas of the grounds, but there are a few things you need to know.