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Family-friendly things to do at The Children's Country House at Sudbury

The Staircase Hall at The Children's Country House at Sudbury, Derbyshire
Family visiting the Hall | © National Trust Images/Annapurna Mellor

With the young and the young at heart at the centre of The Children's Country House at Sudbury, there is always something to discover, explore and learn on your visit to this award winning property.

The Children’s Country House at Sudbury is designed especially for families, making it a great day out, whatever the weather. Explore the historic country home of the Vernon family in the hall, take a journey through childhood in the museum, or explore in the garden.

Planning your Visit 

  • Planning your visit has never been easier, as there is no need to pre-book anymore - just arrive on the day. 
  • Pushchair friendly paths from the car park to the property. 
  • Baby changing facilities.
  • Buggystore for prams, pushchairs, bikes, scooters. 
  • Free wheelchair accessible vehicle transfer from the property to the car park, and return. 
  • The property is open during most school holidays, and Friday to Monday in term time. 

Explore the Hall

Step inside the historic country home of the Vernon family, combining grand architecture and history with interactive activities for the whole family to get involved in. The 17th-century country house is recognised for its intricate ceiling paintings from the likes of Louis Laguerre, and lavish wood carvings such as the Grinling Gibbons displayed in the Drawing Room. 

Practice your deportment and pose for your own portrait in the Long Gallery, partake in some dancing in the Saloon, and have a game or two in the Drawing Room. 

The last entry time to the Hall is half an hour before the property closes, to ensure you can make the most of your visit. 

Learn more about the history of Sudbury Hall. 

The Museum of Childhood 

Wander freely through the Museum of Childhood, and learn of the challenges of childhood across the centuries. Our award-winning museum welcomes children and families to explore, seek and connect with history through our objects, activities, Victorian Classroom and popular chimney. 

The Gardens 

Picnic, play and connect with nature in Sudbury's gardens. Build dens in the Bluebell Wood, have a mindful moment and discover your inner-explorer in the play area. 

Mystery Rooms

Available on a first come, first serve basis on the day of your visit*, take a leap back into World War 2 as a child evacuee in our Mystery Rooms experience. Designed for young minds, this experience is open to families and children, fostering teamwork and problem-solving.

*Subject to volunteer availability and closed on Mondays during term-time and during the winter period.  

Fairytale Forest Café

The Fairytale Forest Café is open when the property is, serving a selection of hot and cold drinks, scrumptious snacks and light meals. Ideal for refuelling after a busy day. The café provides indoor and outdoor seating with plenty of shelter.

Child running in the Long Gallery at The Children's Country House, Sudbury, Derbyshire
Let your imagination run wild at The Children's Country House | © National Trust Images/John Millar
The Lilypond Fountain at The Children's Country House, in winter.
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The Gardens at The Children's Country House 

Explore the Garden and explore, admire and connect with the beauty of nature.

Two people walking in the gardens at Sudbury
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Things to See and Do at The Children's Country House at Sudbury 

Enjoy a leisurely visit to The Children’s Country House at Sudbury. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a garden lover or seeking a retreat, there’s something special at this late 17th century house for everyone to enjoy.