Discover more at Rowallane Garden
Find out when Rowallane Garden is open, how to get here, the things to see and do and more.
Visiting Rowallane Garden with family
Whether you're looking for rainy day indoor activities or running, skipping and jumping around the Pleasure Ground play area, or looking for things to do with the kids there’s something to occupy all ages here at Rowallane Garden. Find out what's on offer and the details you need to plan your visit.
Planning your family visit
If you're planning a day out at Rowallane Garden with the family, here is some useful information
Upcoming family-friendly events
Summer of Play at Rowallane Garden - 1 July to 1 September
Get your heart racing in nature this summer. Challenge friends and family to a host of games sure to get you active in the sun. Play volleyball or badminton on the front lawn, stroll through the Pleasure Ground in search sporting adventures and our explore and play area and test our abilities as you duck under and clamber over the obstacles.
Play together, meet new friends and enjoy the sun all summer long.
For full listings of events at Rowallane Garden visit our What's On page
Play areas
Explore and Play
The natural play area, Explore and Play, is located at the top of the Pleasure Ground. It's been made using completely natural materials. Fallen trees have been reimagined as climbing frames, activity dens are made from branches from the garden and stepping stones are inventively fashioned from cut stumps and logs. Intricate chainsaw sculptures depicting exotic animals.
Our aim was to create an interactive environment that feels like part of the landscape providing a pathway to a deeper connection with nature. We hope it encourages kids big and small to engage with their senses, appreciate being outdoors and indulge their imaginations.
Balance bikes
Balance Bikes are the perfect way to help your future cyclists learn how to ride in the safety of the great outdoors. That's why we are delighted to offer free-to-hire balance bikes to our visitors, with helmets, from visitor reception. You don’t need to book anything, and the balance bikes are free to use – just turn up and get going.
PLEASE NOTE - Balance bikes and bikes with stabilisers are welcome - our trails are not designed for larger cycles.
Rowallane Garden Bike Policy
In the interest of protecting our plant collection and preventing injury to cyclists and others as our paths are not suitable for high speed or large bikes, the following bike policy has been agreed. Children on bikes with a wheel size up to 14 inches are welcome to cycle in the garden. • Please remain on paths (this includes mown paths on lawns). • Bikes are not permitted in the Walled Garden & Rock Garden. • Castleward have more extensive bike trails suitable for larger bikes. Please ask a member of staff for more details. • People arriving on bicycles that do not meet the above criteria can access the property via the main avenue and are welcome to leave their bike at the bicycle rack located by the admissions area. • Please demonstrate consideration to visitors at all times when cycling on the property.
Rainy and Sunny day activities
Whether sunshine or a little downpour, we’ve got a few ideas up our sleeves with our top indoor and outdoor adventures for days at Rowallane Garden. From exploring the natural play area to indoor fun in the barn, there's plenty of interactive fun for all weathers. Click the arrows to find out more...
Come and explore the natural playground
Let your little ones run wild in our natural playground. It's been made using completely natural materials. Fallen trees have been reimagined as climbing frames, activity dens are made from branches from the garden and stepping stones are inventively fashioned from cut stumps and logs. Intricate chainsaw sculptures depicting exotic animals.
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What's Next?
Looking for more events for the whole family? Have a look at our highlights for the next few months.
Perfect for picnics
During the warmer, dryer Rowallane Garden is the perfect spot for a picnic. There are picnic tables across the garden, and some off the beaten track spots where you can enjoy the peace and quiet. You can bring a picnic blanket or borrow one of ours, pack your own picnic basket or stock up in the café which serves range of hot and cold drinks, sandwiches and sweet treats for you to grab.
Look out for signs of the changing seasons
Rowallane Garden is a garden for every season. Enjoy the seasonal changes as you explore the woodlands and gardens. Look out for the wildlife that calls Rowallane Garden home. Why not have a go at checking off the '50 things to do before you're 11¾' check list on your next visit. Take a look at our full list of '50 things'
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Family-friendly places to visit
Find the best family-friendly places to visit and discover the fun-filled activities on offer as part of our Summer of Play, sponsored by Starling Bank.
Family-friendly places in Northern Ireland
Discover the best family-friendly places to visit in Northern Ireland this summer with a day out at the places in our care. Enjoy sunny outdoor trails that ignite inquisitive minds and natural play areas perfect for letting off steam. When the summer sun shines, family adventures are boundless. If a sudden summer shower appears, take refuge in our family-friendly cafés for some well-deserved treats. Remember to check property websites for specific opening times and events.