Family fun at Croft Castle

Family holding hands approach the gatehouse at Croft Castle, Herefordshire. — Fun at Croft Castle and Parkland | © National Trust Images/Rob Coleman

Adventure awaits with two play areas. The mini-castle play area invites younger children to run, jump, and climb as they pretend to be kings and queens. Meanwhile, the natural play area, featuring stepping logs, a den building zone, and a rope swing, lets them unleash their wild side.

February half term

Timeless tales trail

Saturday 15 - Sunday 23 February

Join us for an enchanting adventure into the world of folklore and myth. Participate in fun games inspired by the magic of Croft Castle's grounds. After all, local legend says the mischievous imps of English folklore surrounded Croft Castle at one time.

Pick up your trail sheet from Visitor Reception. £3 per trail with a prize included (normal admission applies).

Play areas

There are two play areas at Croft, the mini-castle play area which is situated just outside the Carpenter’s tea-room and suitable for younger children to run, jump and climb around as they pretend to be the king of the castle. Families can also run wild in our natural play area, complete with stepping logs, a den building area, rope swing and giant noughts and crosses.

Child on father's shoulders gazing at an apple tree with young fruit. — Explore the ancient woodland at Croft Castle | © James Dobson

Family-friendly things to do in the parkland

50 things to do before you’re 11¾

Get your kids closer to nature with ‘50 things to do before you’re 11¾’. There are plenty of outdoor activities to do all year round, from watching the sunset to creating some wild art. Why not download a copy of the '50 things' guide to bring along with you? There are 50 activities to try as a family outdoors which can be used over and over again.

Family walks

There are several walks which run through the 1500-acre estate. Families with younger children may wish to explore the revived Fishpool Valley where water cascades through the woods from pool-to-pool. Older children may enjoy the challenge of trekking up Croft Ambrey, an Iron Age hillfort, to enjoy the wonderful 360˚ views at the top.

Family friendly things to do in the castle and garden

Step back in time inside the castle and have a go at spotting trails during the school holidays. Our volunteers can show you some of the fascinating objects we look after.

Don't forget to explore the gardens, including the homely walled garden, and see who's checked into the giant bug hotel.

Enjoy your takeaway snacks from the Carpenter's tea-room, including hot snacks and drinks to warm you up after you've explored the parkland and gardens.

Easter at Croft Castle

Saturday 12 April - Sunday 27 April

This Easter, bring your little ones to Croft Castle for an enchanting children’s trail filled with fun and excitement! Explore the beautiful grounds of this historic estate while searching for hidden treasures and completing delightful challenges along the way. With engaging activities designed for children of all ages, this trail promises to create unforgettable memories for families. Don’t miss out on the chance to enjoy the great outdoors, discover nature, and celebrate the joy of Easter together!

Prices are £3.50 per trail which includes an Easter trail sheet, bunny ears and dairy or vegan and Free From* chocolate egg. Normal admission applies.

*Suitable for people with milk, egg, gluten, peanut and tree nut allergies.

Facilities

Baby-change facilities can be found in the disabled toilet near the tea-room. Please ask at the tea-room for the key. Breast feeding is welcome anywhere you feel comfortable, or if you'd like a little privacy, please ask.

There's lots to choose from for your little ones in the cosy Carpenter's tea-room, with smaller portions and high chairs also available.