Summer Family Days Out Near Brook House Woods
A family stay here doesn't come with an itinerary. At Journeyman, the indoor swing tends to get found within the first ten minutes, the pool table settles most rainy afternoons, and falconry is there on request for anyone after a proper adventure. At the Oast House, it’s garden games followed by a tennis match just opposite the house. Most days, that's plenty.
But this summer, if a day out is what you're after, Herefordshire is making it easy — three National Trust properties nearby are all running their own Summer of Play.
Brockhampton — 15 minutes away
A new play zone with balance bikes, a mini obstacle course, sand play, and a medieval potion kitchen for younger explorers. Combine it with a wander through Brockhampton's moated manor and woodland trails, and it's an easy half-day that barely eats into the rest of your stay.
Croft Castle — 35 minutes away
Croft Castle has turned into a medieval fair for the season, with weekly changing challenges — archery, pottery, cookery, and a wyvern trail for young explorers to follow through the castle. Dress-up and performances are part of it too, so pack accordingly.
Berrington Hall
A little further on, Berrington Hall is running its own Summer of Play with a Georgian theme — dressing up, games and creative play inspired by the house's history. There’s even boats to head out on the lake.
The Farm Gate Interview: Wildhearts Outdoor
As part of our Herefordshire Edit, we're kicking off a new interview series this month — eight rapid, unscripted questions put to the people making Herefordshire worth the trip. First up: Founder Nadine from Wildhearts Outdoor, an outdoor nursery on the edge of Hereford, with stay-and-play sessions and endless opportunities for child-led free play.
One word for Herefordshire that isn't "quiet." Welcoming.
What's happening at Wildhearts that nobody ever asks about, but should? The benefits of child-led free play.
Which Brook House Woods stay matches your personality — Journeyman play, or Foxglove quiet? Journeyman — for the fun swing!
If Wildhearts had a soundtrack, what's playing? "Days Like This" by Van Morrison.
Tell us a Herefordshire secret you probably shouldn't be telling us. Croft Castle's fairy trail — a must-visit.
Which local business — not yours — would you send a stranger to? The Garden Café on Church Street, Hereford, for lunch.
What's coming up that you're most excited to share? Autumn — we love a changing season.
Describe your perfect Herefordshire afternoon in five words. Woodland dog walk, picnic, book.
Stay and Play sessions generally run on Mondays and Fridays each week and can be booked directly with Wildhearts Outdoor.
Planning a family day out
Summer of Play activities and dates vary by property and may require National Trust membership or separate entry — check each property's own page before you go. Brockhampton and Croft Castle are both within easy reach for a half-day; Berrington Hall makes a good full-day trip if you want to combine it with lunch out. Falconry at Brook House Woods is available on request, subject to availability — ask us when you book.
Check what's still available this summer