(ad) If you’re looking for the perfect family day out this summer – or somewhere to keep coming back to – Penshurst Place has you covered. With its adventure playground, enchanting gardens, interactive Toy Museum (re-opening on 31 July) and a jam-packed schedule of summer activities (all included in the price of admission), it’s one of our absolute favourites.
From 19 July to 31 August 2025, there’s something happening almost every day – from bushcraft and birds of prey to storytelling and crafts. We’ve had annual membership here for many years, and it’s such brilliant value – especially with all the added entertainment over the school holidays. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifteenth, there’s always something new to enjoy.
What’s on this summer?
Here’s just a taste of what you can look forward to – all included with your entry ticket:
? Storytelling: Alice in Wonderland – Every Sunday (20 July–31 August), with four fun-filled shows a day in the garden.
? Falconry Shows – Watch incredible birds of prey take flight on select Saturdays (19 July, 2, 16 & 30 August).
? Make-and-Take Crafts – Every Tuesday & Thursday (22 July–28 August), perfect for little creatives.
? Bushcraft with Camp Wilderness – Every Wednesday (23 July–27 August), including s’mores, archery and axe-throwing.
? Laser Clay Shooting – Try your hand at this countryside classic on select Saturdays (26 July, 9 & 23 August).
Toy Museum Reopening – 31 July ?
One of the summer’s big highlights is the grand reopening of the Toy Museum on Thursday 31 July, celebrating its 55th anniversary after a stunning £100,000 refurbishment refurbishment, courtesy of thenNational Lottery Heritage Fund.
Expect restored exhibits, interactive zones, and a heartwarming Teddy Bear Picnic on the South Lawn – plus free entry for under-16s who bring a teddy (with a full-paying adult)!
Think crafts, face painting, storytelling, selfie spots, and even a DJ set – all included with admission. If you haven’t visited the Toy Museum before (or even if you have), this is the perfect time to go.
Bank Holiday Bonus ?
Make the most of the August Bank Holiday (23–25 August) with a bumper weekend of bushcraft, laser clay shooting and Alice in Wonderland storytelling – all included with admission. It’s the perfect way to round off the summer.
Always something to enjoy
Beyond the holiday extras, Penshurst Place offers a huge amount for families all year round:
? Adventure Playground – always a big hit with my three!
? 11 acres of Grade I listed gardens
? Newly relaunched Toy Museum (from 31 July)
? Woodland Trail with natural play
? Historic house and staterooms
? Picnic area, courtyard café and gift shop
Top tip
If you think you might visit more than once, go for the annual membership – it pays for itself quickly and gives you the freedom to pop in throughout the year.
? Where: Penshurst Place & Gardens, Tonbridge, Kent, TN11 8DG
?️ When: Summer activities run daily from 19 July to 31 August 2025