Sizergh Castle - National Trust

Looking for a magical place to take the kids for a day out? Sizergh Castle in Cumbria is the perfect spot for families to explore, learn, and have loads of fun together! With its fascinating history, beautiful gardens, and exciting activities, Sizergh Castle is a destination where parents and kids can have a fantastic time.

Things To Do At Sizergh Castle and Garden Imagine stepping into a real-life castle that's over 800 years old! Sizergh Castle has been home to the Strickland family for more than 700 years, and now it's ready to welcome your family, too. As you walk through the grand halls and cosy rooms, you'll discover the stories of knights, kings, and queens who once lived in this historic house.

It's like a time-travel adventure where every corner holds a new surprise! Discover a collection of portraits of the family that resided in the house, as well as a ceramic fishbowl, the Antony and Cleopatra tapestry, a crucifixion painting and even French furniture! This medieval manor isn't just filled with family portraits but with items collected from 26 generations of the Strickland family, like the Inlaid Chamber - an absolute must-see!

Kids will love playing the role of detectives, searching for hidden symbols and clues throughout the castle. The displays are super engaging, and the friendly guides are always ready to share fun facts and answer any questions. It's a great way to introduce children to history in a way that's exciting and easy to understand.

Once you've explored the medieval house, it's time to head outside and discover the fantastic walled gardens. Spanning a massive 1,600 acres, the lovely gardens at Sizergh Castle are like a playground for nature lovers. Whether your kids enjoy climbing over rocks, spotting colourful flowers in the enchanting wildflower meadow, or just running around on the grass, there's plenty of space for them to explore.

The limestone rock garden is a favourite with families – it's one of the biggest in the National Trust's care and full of cool spots to climb and hide. The kitchen garden is another hit, where kids can see where fruits, vegetables, and herbs come from. It's a fun (and sneaky) way to get them interested in healthy eating!

Wander through the herbaceous border, the national collection of hardy ferns, ancient trees and even the water garden! And don't forget the wild play area! With natural climbing frames, logs, and dens, it's a perfect spot for kids to burn off some energy and get their hands dirty.

The surrounding woodlands are packed with wild play trails, ideal for family walks where you can spot wildlife or enjoy a peaceful picnic. The gardens are the perfect place for a buggy-friendly walk! Seasonal Events Sizergh Castle isn't just a place to visit – it's a place to experience!

The castle hosts a variety of events and activities throughout the year, designed with families in mind. From medieval re-enactments and craft workshops to nature trails and storytelling sessions, there's always something exciting happening. During Easter, your family can join the egg hunts around the gardens, while Christmas brings a special magic with festive decorations and activities.

In the summer, outdoor theatre performances are perfect for a picnic and a show in the sunshine. Plus, garden games like noughts and crosses, badminton and hoops! For kids who love getting hands-on, the castle offers workshops where they can try out crafts like pottery or weaving.

It's a fantastic opportunity for them to learn something new while having a blast! Food & Drink Exploring a castle can work up quite an appetite, and the Sizergh Castle Café is ready to refuel your little adventurers. The café serves delicious meals and snacks made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Whether you're after a light lunch, a scrumptious cake, or a full meal, there's something to satisfy every taste. For the kiddos, there's a special menu with all their favourites, from sandwiches to milkshakes. And with plenty of outdoor seating, you can enjoy your food while soaking up the stunning views of the castle and gardens.

It's the perfect spot to relax and recharge before continuing your adventure. Our Top Tips for a Smooth Family Visit Sizergh Castle is super family-friendly, with all the facilities you need for a stress-free day out. There's plenty of parking, including spaces for families and those with mobility needs.

The castle grounds are pram and wheelchair accessible, so everyone can enjoy exploring. Make sure to pick up a family guide when you arrive – it's packed with fun facts and activities to keep the kids entertained as you explore. And if you're planning to bring your own food, there are loads of lovely picnic spots around the estate.

Just find a spot with a great view and settle down for a family feast! Why Sizergh Castle is a Family Favourite Sizergh Castle is more than just an old building – it's a place where history, nature, and fun come together to create a perfect family day out. Whether you're wandering through the historic rooms, playing in the gardens, or taking part in one of the many events, there's something here for every member of the family.

Kids will love exploring a real castle, while parents can enjoy the beautiful surroundings and the relaxed atmosphere. It's a day out that combines learning with play, making it a great choice for families with children of all ages. And with the stunning Cumbrian countryside as your backdrop, even the drive to Sizergh Castle is part of the adventure!