Thornbridge for Kids
The Thornbridge Estate Nature Trail
Our nature trail features wildlife native to the Thornbridge Estate along with insight into each wildlife character and its habitat! Wander the gardens and locate each wildlife character, ticking off each one as you go (sheets available from The Emporium desk). Scan the QR code at each location to find out more about each character and its habitat (you can search for QR code readers online and download for free). Enjoy the word search in the cafe when you have completed the nature trail! Accessible with garden entry.
Net-a-duck*
We fill our one-hundred-year-old Clumber Park Quadra Foil Fountain with 100’s of rubber ducks for kids to fish out with fishing nets. Providing hours of entertainment (for the big kids too), in summer bring a change of clothes and splash around in the fountain to cool off amongst the rubber ducks. Accessible with garden entry. Nets are available to purchase from the Emporium.
*The duck fountain has to be drained in the deepest winter months to protect the 100 year old fountain from damage.
Meet the animals
Our Meet the Animals enclosure from The Thornbridge Smallholding is situated adjacent to the cafe and in front of The Emporium. Come and pet a pigmy goat or one of the Estate pigs and piglets. There are also sheep and lambs to see in the Spring. Small bags of food that can be fed to the animals are for sale in The Emporium. Access is free.
Sandpit, Mud Kitchen & Willow tunnels
Cook up a storm in our mud kitchen and build sandcastles to your heart’s content in our spacious sandpit you can even did with our sit on digger. Explore the living willow tunnels and huts constructed by the Garden Team. Accessible with garden entry
Racing Cars
Under 3’s can race around on one of our 3 retro racing cars.
Tubular bells
Using the original organ pipes from the Hall, our gardeners have created an impressive musical instrument for everyone to enjoy. Accessible with garden entry
Seasonal activities
We have a selection of other, ever-changing activities such as basketball, swing ball, badminton, and painting, dependent on the seasons.
PLAY DATE PASS
The Annual Play Date Pass allows unlimited access to the gardens during term time on weekdays for one adult and up to 2 children for just £25 per year!
Come and meet your play date at Thornbridge Estate, and enjoy the duck fountain, outdoor games, and the rest of the gardens as many times as you like. Find out more and buy a Play Date Pass here.
You can also gift a Play Date Pass via a voucher.