Set in 400 acres of Parkland, Ragley Hall is ideal for fun days out of picnics and play.

Older kids will love the 3D maze, climbing frames, trampoline, swings, slides, aerial runway and wooden fortress, while little ones play safely in their own Small Peoples� Playground.

The Woodland Walk is an ideal place for children to explore and let off steam. The route takes you through grassland, established woodland and young plantations; home to an abundance of wildlife while providing wonderful views of the House and the surrounding parkland. There are also some weird and wonderful sculptures which form part of the Jerwood collection which can be found dotted around the walk.

The Hall is open to the public and the State Rooms offer an insight into the history of the house which will add a bit of culture to a fun day out and there is an impressive collection of old carriages housed in the stables.

Bodgers Cabin provides light snacks and hot and cold drinks. Ice creams and toys also available. Large outdoor picnic area available.

Pocket Money Toys, Ragley Souvenirs & Stationary, Sweets, Ice Creams.

Toilets available at the Playground, Stables & at the Hall both with baby changing facilities. Disabled toilets located at the Hall & Playground.

Staff will be happy to warm baby food.

Ragley is located 2 miles South West of Alcester off the A435/A46, 8 miles from Stratford-upon-Avon. Follow the brown tourism signs.

If you would like to try the Woodland Walk then be sure to bring your wellies. Note that the State Rooms are closed on Saturdays.

Ragley Hall is just outside Alcester, about 8 miles north-west of Stratford-upon-Avon. It is a beautiful stately home in rolling countryside, with a lake and sculpture park, but its best asset for families with energetic kids is its adventure playground, set amid the trees. There are climbing frames and slides aimed at everyone from tiny tots to teenagers, plus a maze, rope swings, death slide and trampolines. The adjacent cafe means that tired parents can grab a re-energizing cappuccino while the kids play, or you could always take a picnic - there is plenty of open space next to the boating lake.

Admission is a bit pricey (£8.50 per adult) but kids under 5 are free, and the season tickets are very well-priced, if you live close enough to go regularly. As a local, I'm planning to be up there every nice weekend of the summer!

- Gabrielle Starkey / Mar 09

http://www.ragleyhall.com/kids.html