Looking for fresh air, wide open spaces, and something that’ll keep the kids entertained all summer long?
The National Trust has you covered, and luckily for us, there’s a whole host of historic houses and gardens right on our doorstep.
This summer, the Summer of Play is back, popping up across Bucks, Berks and Oxfordshire with trails, games, building zones and creative play in beautiful historic settings. Whether it’s climbing through a willow tunnel, taking on a colour run, or just kicking back with a picnic and a deckchair, there’s plenty to explore.
Here’s what’s on near us…
Hughenden, High Wycombe
Tucked away in our very own Chiltern Hills, Hughenden is steeped in history — think Disraeli’s grand Victorian residence mixed with secret wartime map-making.
- NEW: Ink, Pens & Paintbrushes — a fascinating exhibition on the power of writing and illustration to shape history.
- Natural playground, willow tunnels and shady woodland walks for the perfect day of outdoor exploring.
- Summer of Play starts 24 July: expect hula hoops, skittles, target games and more.
- Free countryside walks twice a month with knowledgeable local guides.
- Pop by on 19 July or 16 August to meet the beekeepers.
💡 Pulse tip: nab a deckchair on the lawn and soak in the summer blooms across the parterre.
Cliveden, near Maidenhead
Grand views, beautiful gardens, woodland trails and riverside adventures – Cliveden really knows how to put on a show.
- Now until 14 September: there’s a summer adventures leaflet to pick up from the info centre with nine challenges to complete to become an expert explorer.
- From 24 July: Summer of Play returns with games and creative activities dotted across the estate.
- Don’t miss the maze, the Story Book Play Den, or a boat trip along the Thames.
- House and chapel tours run weekly — check their site for exact times.
Stowe, near Buckingham
This one’s for lovers of big skies, classical temples and wide open space. Stowe’s gardens are jaw-dropping.
- Stowe Summer Staycation kicks off 28 June with trails, outdoor theatre, lawn games and reading corners.
- 29 & 30 July: open-air theatre with the Three Inch Fools (picnic strongly encouraged).
- 10 August: 5k Colour Run — prepare to get joyfully messy!
- Monthly dog walks, gift stalls and guided tours throughout the summer.
Waddesdon Manor, near Aylesbury
A real-life fairytale chateau with a cracking playground, a fascinating aviary and heaps of summer events.
- Summer of Play starts 23 July with tennis, cricket, and garden games.
- Swing through the trees in the woodland playground with zip wire, board-rider and roundabout.
- Outdoor theatre, axe-throwing, circus workshops, crazy golf and even croquet & cocktails (yes please) on various days through the summer.
- Kids go free to house and gardens 23 July–28 August.
- 29-31 August: Chilli Fest soaks up the last of the summer fun with food, live music, and fun activities for all the family.
Basildon Park, near Reading
With 400 acres to roam, Basildon’s all about playful adventure and peaceful picnics.
- Wild play trail in the parkland with balance beams, hopscotch and den-building.
- Mondays: join the Giant Art Activity and help create a collaborative masterpiece.
- Until 26 August: outdoor photography exhibition showcasing shortlisted entries from Earth Photo 2025.
- 6 August: Outdoor cinema showing Pride & Prejudice where it was filmed – cosplay encouraged!
- 15–25 August: Helios, a 7-metre sculpture of the sun, lands in the park.
Greys Court, near Henley-on-Thames
Walled gardens, woodland walks and plenty of charm. Perfect for a gentle family day out.
- Every Monday: storytelling in Lady Brunner’s Secret Garden (newly reopened).
- Until 31 July: on display is the 100-yr-old dress Lady Brunner wore as Titania in Midsummer Nights Dream on the West End stage.
- Woodland play area for climbing, sliding and jumping, plus a mini maze to follow
- 14 June – 13 July Oxford Sculptors Group return to exhibit their sculptures in the picturesque surroundings of Greys Court walled garden.
- Meditative gratitude walks on the first Thursday of the month with a guide.
- 26 July onwards: Summer of Play with family-friendly fun across the gardens.
- 19–27 July: Watch live archaeology unfold on the Oval Lawn.
And if you’re after something lower key…
The National Trust’s Little Gems are ideal for slower-paced days and peaceful wanders:
- West Wycombe Park (yes, our very own!) — film-worthy grounds and Sunday music on the Terrace.
- Nuffield Place — home of Morris Motors’ Lord Nuffield, complete with a bedroom cupboard workshop!
- Claydon House — one of the finest 18th-century interiors in England and home to Florence Nightingale’s family. There’s a new costume display (running until 20 October) showcasing original and replica garments worn by the Verney family in the 17th century — including a pirate’s silk gown, Florence Nightingale’s sash, and a rare 17th-century maternity corset.
- Chastleton — a Jacobean time capsule where croquet was codified (yes, really).
- Ascott — stunning gardens and an impressive art collection from the de Rothschild family.
- Ashdown House — a romantic little retreat with a royal backstory and dramatic staircase.
💬 Before you go: Always check the property website before visiting, especially for opening days and event times.
☀️ Whether you’re planning big family adventures, peaceful garden strolls, or just need to tire the kids out, there’s a National Trust day out waiting for you this summer.
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