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Family days out at Powis Castle

An adult running on the lawn with two small children playing on the grass
Enjoy the garden at Powis Castle this summer | © National Trust / Paul Harris

Whether you’re visiting with children or grandchildren, you’ll find there’s plenty to keep the whole family entertained at Powis Castle. Explore the rooms of the 13th-century castle or follow a garden trail guaranteed to delight the little ones.

Planning your family visit

Here’s the information you need at a glance to help plan your next day out at Powis Castle:

  • Baby-changing facilities are available by the Garden Entrance and in the Formal Garden.
  • Due to the number of stairs and the historic interior, pushchairs are not permitted inside the castle. You are welcome to leave pushchairs at the castle exit lobby.
  • Bikes and scooters are not permitted in the garden for health and safety reasons.
  • Please note that photography is not allowed in the castle.
Family playing on the great lawn at Powis Castle on a sunny day in August in Wales.
Family playing on the Great Lawn at Powis Castle | © National Trust Images/Arnhel de Serra

Outdoor Theatre and performances

Who’s dreaming about summer evenings watching outdoor theatre in the Edwardian Formal garden? Dust off the low-backed chair or roll out the picnic blanket, there’s something for all the family this summer.

14th July – Pride and Prejudice, Chapter House Theatre (all ages)

17 August - Mewn Cymeriad performance : Prince Llwelyn - the last Prince of Wales (5 - 12 year olds)

31 August – A theatrical journey down the The River Severn performance by Stan's Cafe Theatre Company (all ages)

Find out more and book your tickets here.

Festival of Archaeology, 23 July

Are you ready to find out more about medieval history? Join us on the 23 July when we will be joined by Clwyd Archaeological Trust (Heneb) for a range of fun activities for everyone to enjoy.

From tours unpacking medieval history of the castle, to dressing up and kids digs, take part in creative activities for all the family.

If you are visiting Powis from the 17 – 19 July, keep a look out for the archaeology team who will be digging at the front of the castle by the picnic area. The group, led by a National Trust archaeologist, will be uncovering the layers to see what finds may be hidden beneath.

Summer of Play, 20 July – 1 September

There’s no end to the fun at Powis Castle and Garden this summer. Take part in a wide variety of activities on the Great Lawn below the Italianate terraces– there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Try your balance as you walk the plank or challenge your friends and family to a game of badminton, volleyball and rounders. Take it in turns to time each other on the football agility corner to see who can get the best time. Why not have a go at the sack race, hurdles or running lanes and find your favourite activity.

A medieval castle wouldn’t be complete without a trusty steed, so climb upon the wooden horse and take a photo with the historic castle and Italianate terraces in the background. Take part in sensory play activities including the colourful parachute which ripples in the summer breeze.

New for this year, is crazy woodland golf alongside a magical carving in wood of two friendly dragons sleeping beneath the rustling tree canopies.

Take a seat to soak up the sun along the way with wooden benches dotted around the garden, so you can admire picturesque views of the expansive lawns and colourful boarders.

After all the exploring, enjoy a delicious treat in the courtyard or garden café. From refreshing ice-creams to hot and cold food, our friendly team offer a children’s menu as well as gluten free options.

The Summer of Play is sponsored by Starling Bank.

Discover the Dragons

Two friendly dragons have landed within the Wilderness, an informal woodland behind the main garden. Hop on to the saddles on their backs and let your imagination take you on a magical adventure. These magical Wyverns are here for everyone to play upon and enjoy.

This new addition to the garden has been skilfully created by the renowned local artist, Simon O’Rourke.

The Tiger Trail

As you meander through garden, look out for shy, friendly tigers who may be hiding in the undergrowth. Can you spot a tail, paw or ears? See if you can find them all and don’t forget to look within the terraces…

Share you photos on social media

If you would like to share your photos with us, please use the hashtag #CastellPowis #PowisCastle and tag us @PowisCastleNT

Facade of Powis Castle showing the sequence of garden terraces below featuring massive clipped yews at Powis Castle and Garden, Wales

Discover more at Powis Castle and Garden

Find out when Powis Castle and Garden is open, how to get here, the things to see and do and more.

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