Polesden Lacey - National Trust

On rainy days, you can step inside the house to see the grand interiors, including a gold room. Your little lords and ladies will have the chance to slip into period costumes and unleash their imaginations.

The Very Hungry Caterpillar™ Trail 2026

Polesden Lacey invites you to wriggle, munch and transform as the new The Very Hungry Caterpillar™ trail opens this May. This charming trail brings to life the best-selling story of the tiny caterpillar who hatches from an egg and is very hungry so he eats through a variety of fruits and snacks each day. The caterpillar then forms a chrysalis around himself and, after some time, emerges as a beautiful butterfly. Enhanced by illustrated trail markers, giant food posts and activities and games, children learn about the days of the week, counting and the life cycle of a butterfly all within the beautiful setting of the stunning grounds at Polesden Lacey. Open daily from 1 May - 5 July, between 10am - 4pm. This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.

The Very Hungry Caterpillar™ & © 2026 Penguin Random House LLC. All rights reserved.

Pokémon joins Polesden Lacey’s Summer of Play 2026

This summer, your favourite Pokémon just got closer! From 11 July to 13 September, Summer of Play means you can share the magic of Pokémon as a family at Polesden Lacey.

Ready to unleash your energy? On top of an already jam-packed Summer of Play, discover all-new Pokémon zones. Get stuck into the Pokémon trading, take part in mega games, flex your skills and collect stickers!

Trail sheets will be available to collect on the day. Normal admission also applies (free for National Trust members).

Things To Do

Who could forget the Kestrel Corner natural play area that opened up? It's made using wood from the countryside estate! You can enjoy the swings, barreling through tunnels and climbing giant nests as you embrace your inner animal and get closer to nature. It's the perfect place for children to be active! You'll also find a rabbit's warren, a bird's nest and a buried fox den - let their imaginations run wild!

You'll be amazed by the stunning décor in the Gold Saloon inside the Edwardian home. Don't forget to take a peek at the grand library where Mrs Grenvilles' extensive collection of books is kept. You can visit lots of rooms in the house such as the billiards room, dining room, lobby, picture corridors, smoking room, gun room & more! Behind every doorway is a portal to the past - what will you discover?

Outside, you'll find 1400 acres of ancient woodlands to explore, formal gardens and huge grounds offering plenty of space to run, build dens, fly a kite or absorb beautiful viewpoints. Make sure to check out the walled rose gardens - they are such a highlight for us! Your little adventureres will love rolling down the sloping lawn and having fun exploring the grounds. For animal lovers, there's also a bird hide, a chicken coop and beehives to discover.

Love walking? Follow the marked nature trails through the Polesden Lacey estate for families all year round and explore additional kid-friendly trails during the school holidays. Don't forget to check out their events programme before you go for more exciting family entertainment!

Fancy a spot of reading? Explore the wider, beautiful estate and head to the charming second-hand bookshop run by friendly faces. Pick out a classic and head to the Edwardian house grounds to find the perfect reading spot. Children under 5 can also enjoy scooters and bikes on the pleasure grounds. Please note: there are sloped pathways, and it can get busy.

Food & Drink

Enjoy a lovely hot drink at the Coffee Shop or purchase cold drinks, cakes, and snacks to take outside with you. Take a seat inside or outside - there's plenty of seating available. Stop for a nibble and refreshments at the Beech Hut kiosk (which opens during peak times) or the Stable Courtyard Cafe. Wondering what extras you can enjoy at the cafe instead of the coffee shop? Two words - cream tea! Grab a cup of coffee or refuel at the snack bar.

Whether you're looking for a relaxing escape from the city, beautiful woodland paths to explore, or exceptional views to marvel at. Polesden Lacey has it all! 

Why We Recommend Polesden Lacey

- There are Period costumes to dress up in!

- There is a nature play area, woodland walks, walled gardens, lots of walks & glorious views.

- There are delicious treats to enjoy at the Courtyard Cafe.