Families can look forward to six weeks of hands-on fun at a North East stately hall with a summer of play programme returning with a packed line-up of outdoor adventures.
In Middlesbrough, Ormesby Hall's Summer of Play will run until August 30, offering a full programme of outdoor games, crafts, nature activities, and sports throughout the school holidays.
Visitors can enjoy movement sessions, wildlife discovery, bushcraft, and a wide range of creative play, all set in the hall’s gardens and wider estate.
Rebecca Marrs, visitor experience officer at Ormesby Hall, said: "We want Summer of Play to give families the freedom to enjoy their day in whatever way suits them.
"Children can try a new activity, get creative, explore nature or simply enjoy having plenty of space to run around and play outdoors."
All activities are included in standard admission and require no booking, with adult entry priced at £7, children at £3.50, and a family ticket at £17.50.
Entry is free for National Trust members and children under five.
Ms Marrs said: "There will be something different happening throughout the week, so families can visit more than once and have a completely different experience.
"With all the activities included with admission, it’s a relaxed and affordable way to spend time together during the school holidays."
The weekly schedule features themed days designed to keep families entertained with new experiences each time they visit.
Moving Mondays will alternate between children’s yoga with Kismet Kids Yoga and dance sessions with Tees Dance, combining movement, imagination, and mindfulness.
On selected Try-it Tuesdays offer the chance to try karate, with sessions led by instructors from Sendai Kushiro Karate Club.
Wildlife Wednesdays invite children to explore the natural world through bird spotting, bug hunting, and other hands-on nature activities.
Bushcraft Thursdays are led by Kidz Konnekts Outdoors, who will teach practical outdoor skills for time spent in the wild.
Fantasy Fridays bring crafts, storytelling, and dress-up activities to the marquee, giving children a chance to immerse themselves in imaginative play.
In addition to the structured activities, families are welcome to explore the historic house, gardens, and natural play area.
They can also visit the on-site café and second-hand bookshop, or bring a picnic to enjoy in the grounds.
A highlight of the programme is scheduled for July 28, when The Walking Theatre Company will present A Wonderland Adventure in the gardens.
The interactive outdoor performance transports families into the world of Wonderland and is included in admission.
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Ormesby Hall also features a new multi-user trail—an accessible, all-weather loop suitable for walkers, runners, wheelchair users, pushchairs, and cyclists.
The hall is open every day during the summer holidays from 10.30am to 5pm.
Summer of Play activities, the house, and the café close at 4pm, while the gardens remain open until 5pm.
Full details and weekly activity listings can be found at www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ormesbyhall.
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