Put Painshill on your list for a great family day out!
Painshill is a masterpiece of garden design where you are invited to walk around a work of art. It’s a fantastic day out for all the family that’s full of heritage, beauty, adventure and outdoor fun. The beautiful landscape garden, based in Cobham, has everything to get the kids back to nature.
Winding paths take you on a journey to discover stunning views, meadows to run through, trees to climb and amazing garden buildings, including a Crystal Grotto, Gothic Temple, Turkish Tent, Ruined Abbey, and bridges that were featured in Bridgerton. Stroll around the lake and relax in the tranquil atmosphere. There is always wildlife to spot and beautiful reflections from the bridges.
The spectacular Grotto is a magical cave with pools of water and a ceiling covered in sparkling crystals. It has first created by Charles Hamilton in the 18th century and restored by Painshill Park Trust in the 2010s. It is a stunning place where you will not want to put your camera down.
Outdoor activity cards and nature trails are available from the Visitor Centre. Smaller children may bring a bike or scooter in to help them around the landscape and there is a completely accessible route around the lake for those with buggies. Also, dogs are allowed in on short leads, so the whole family can come in and enjoy!
For families there is a natural play area made with materials from around the landscape garden. The area includes a log house, dens, stepping stones and balance logs.
You can spend a whole day at Painshill or there are shorter accessible routes. Bring a picnic or visit Hamilton’s Tea Room for some delicious treats and refreshments, and don’t forget to visit the Painshill Shop to view an extensive range of gifts, souvenirs, decorations and even Painshill’s very own Sparkling Wine.
Throughout the year at Painshill there is a programme of events including nature trails, Easter egg hunts, seasonal celebration days and festive family fun. Their education department runs a Forest School for toddlers in term-time and in the school holidays fabulous day camps full of outdoor adventures for older children. Head to their website to find out more about dates, times and prices.
For more information on Painshill please visit the website.
For more ideas on local places to go, please visit the Raring2go! Places2go section.