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Rutland has a plethora of offerings to keep youngsters amused – and their parents as serene as possible – through the spring and summer season.
Rutland County Museum runs regular family activities, crafts and storytimes during school holidays. On the days without a special event, there’s always plenty to keep little (and not so little) ones entertained at no cost. There’s lots of fun to be had in the children’s area, playing with the old fashioned games or if you’re feeling more adventurous, you could challenge yourselves to complete one of the museum trails. When you’re ready to go outside for some fresh air, there’s an excellent play area and skate park in nearby Cutts Close, which is righ next to...
Oakham Castle – visiting the Great Hall and enjoying the grounds is totally free of charge. As if that wasn’t family-friendly enough; you can even bring your four-legged friend – so long as (s)he’s on a lead. Follow the QR code information trail around the site, and when things are more ‘normal’ demonstrations, re-enactments and events are held throughout the year and there are always dressing-up clothes, toys, colouring-in books, story books, quizzes and trails for visitors to enjoy.
Rutland Farm Park is just a 10 minute walk from Oakham High Street (and 2 minutes from Rutland Museum), Rutland Farm Park is a family owned and run working farm. With a wonderful array of animals to see, a playground and tea room, it has everything you need for a fun family day out. If you like, you can feed the animals and birds and cuddle rabbits and guinea pigs, before thoroughly washing your hands ready for a tasty afternoon tea.
Burghley House and ‘Garden of Surprises’ – Families can explore the house at their own pace, with the option of a daily guided tour at 3pm, subject to availability, or follow the Beastly Boring Burghley children’s guidebook, packed with fun tales and puzzles. The ‘Garden of Surprises’ is particularly popular with children and the young at heart who enjoy a paddle on a warm day. It exudes a real sense of fun; with a moss house, basins of water, a mirrored maze and water jets. There are various events aimed at children during school holidays, including an Easter egg hunt, craft workshops and trails.
Rockingham Castle is surrounded by magnificent gardens and grounds and has been a Royal Castle from the Norman Conquest to Henry VIII. The Saunders Watson family has lived in this incredible castle for over 450 years.
Visitors can explore the Castle in their own time and there are plenty of guides around who will be happy to answer questions or help children completing the Rockingham Eye Spy quiz. There’s a packed programme of events throughout the spring and summer when back to normal.
Fineshade Wood offers a great day out for all the family, especially wildlife lovers. There are lots of places to explore, cycle round and play in. You can build dens, look out for forest animals, or visit our Tree House play area, and there kids activity trails. Next to the visitor centre is the Oak Leaf play area suitable for toddlers upwards with seating and a picnic area. The three walking trails are marked and a cycle trail. Cycle hire is available including trailer buggies. Maps and instructions are available to download from the website.
Of course there is also Rutland Water, with cycle paths, play areas, sand pits, mini golf, watersports and not forgetting Bugtopia The Zoo for all creepy crawly lovers!
