Outdoor play areas
Each of our outdoor play areas has its own historical theme so the kids can learn about the story of England as they play.
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Audley End House and Gardens
The Audley End play area is filled with horse-themed equipment and is right next to the café. Kids can climb to the top turret of the wooden house in the centre of the play area to be rewarded with views of the orchards and horses behind the walled garden.
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1066 battle of Hastings, abbey and battlefield
You'll find this play area near the café at Battle Abbey, the site of the Battle of Hastings. Lovingly carved from wood, it features all sorts of fun apparatus based on the theme of 1066, including climbable barrels and even an enormous wooden ox.
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Belsay Wild Man play area
Release your inner Wild Man at the Belsay Wild Man play area, which features towering climbing frames, winding slides, swings and lots more to explore. There's also a dedicated area for toddlers. It's tucked away in the woodland and is right beside the refurbished cafe in the old coach house.
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Bolsover Castle
Inspired by the towers and turrets of Bolsover Castle, this play area has it all. Swings, a slide and even wooden 'castle battlements'. It's right outside the café so kids can let off steam while you take some time out for yourself.
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Brodsworth Hall and Gardens
The play area at Brodsworth Hall and Gardens is based on the history of the family who lived here. Parents can relax on a picnic bench with a coffee from the nearby café while the kids climb, swing and slide through history.
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Eltham Palace and Gardens
The Courtaulds lived at Eltham Palace in the 1930s and loved to travel. That's why this playground was designed on the theme of 'around the world'. It's right next to the café so you can watch your children play while enjoying a well-earned cup of tea.
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Wrest Park
Situated near the café this play area is inspired by Wrest Park, including its very own wooden pavilion to climb and explore. For daring adventurers there is even a zip wire to ride on, but there's plenty here to keep kids of any age entertained.
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Witley Court and Gardens
Nestled in the woodland by Witley Court, you'll find a wooden adventure playground complete with a tree-house, slides, scramble net and wobbly bridge. Younger children can also explore the nature inspired musical instruments and wooden animal rides.
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Walmer Play Area
Little adventurers will love our natural play trail in Walmer Castle's restored woodland walk. Featuring wobbly bridges to cross, hollow tree trunks to climb and giant nests to hide in, it's a place for imaginations to run wild in a natural setting.
Find a place to visit
Where better to let little imaginations run wild than at a historic castle, abbey or house?
Whether you fancy going exploring in Charles Darwin's back garden, or climbing the tallest tower at Dover Castle, a day out at one of our sites will keep everyone entertained.
Search all placesMore to Explore
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Things For Kids To Do
Get creative and explore the past with our collection of history-themed crafts and activities - perfect for a rainy day!
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Top 10 Castles
If you could be a king or queen of any castle, which would you choose? We asked our Facebook followers to list their top 10 choices.
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Design a coat of arms
Follow our instructions to create your own version of the colourful decoration that knights had on their shields and wore as part of their outfits.
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History at Home
We're here to help you discover the best stories of England’s past from the comfort of your home.