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

Published:: 21 May 2024

Two children look at notecards as they take part in an activity inside Sudbury Hall — Children taking part in an activity in the Hall. | © National Trust Images/Annapurna Mellor

With children at the heart 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 (the hall is closed on Fridays in term time).

A child wearing period costume dances in the Saloon room at Sudbury Hall, which is darkened and lit by disco ball lights. — Dancing in the 'candlelit' Saloon at The Children's Country House at Sudbury Hall, Derbyshire | © National Trust Images/Annapurna Mellor

The 50th Anniversary of the Museum of Childhood

From 28-30 June 2024, join us for a weekend of 70's themed celebration as our Museum of Childhood turns 50. Over the course of the weekend, take part in a Junior Conservation Station, Junk Percussion, workshops, listen and watch a range of performances and help us look to the future of the Museum with evaluative activities taking place in the 'Toys' gallery. Free of charge alongside general admission, don't miss out on this weekend of celebration, music and fun.

Early Years Fridays

The Children's Country House at Sudbury is open to the public from Friday to Monday during term time. On Fridays, the Hall is closed, however the Gardens, Museum, Cafe and Stable Yard are all open to enjoy and we're also pleased to offer crafts, storytelling and sensory play for early years in these areas. Early years activities are free of charge alongside general admission to the property, unless otherwise stated and no booking is needed.

Two children playing a game in the Long Gallery at The Children's Country House at Sudbury. — Children playing in the Long Gallery. | © National Trust Images/Annapurna Mellor

Explore the Hall

Inside the Hall you can explore the Hall of Wonder and The World Below. Partake in some dancing in the Saloon, have some quiet time with a book in the library or practice your deportment in the Long Gallery. Why not venture through the Bedroom Corridor, newly opened for 2024.

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.

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 shelter and in the hotter months, we're pleased to provide snacks and drinks from our catering van in the Stableyard.