Summer Adventures

Things to do at Bowood House & Gardens this summer

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Step into a summer of adventure at Bowood for lasting memories with your family and friends. In 2026, a variety of new experiences are available for families and hours of fun await at the Adventure Playground and The Den & Activity Barn. There is something new for everyone to discover.

Mini Rovers

Mini Rovers fully electric vehicles will give children the feeling of independence and freedom as they conquer the obstacles. These Little Landys (mini replica Land Rovers) are the perfect experience for children to learn how to control a vehicle as they are fully behind the steering wheel. Children will be fully briefed on the day by trained instructor. Parents should ensure they understand the risks of a physical activity and can watch (or take part) with their child, children cannot be left at this activity.

Dates:
Saturday 29th August 2026
Sunday 30th August 2026

Times:
11:00 - 16:00
30 min slots to assist with queues

Price:
Child 4* - 10 years old: £10.00
• A Day Ticket must be purchased in addition to an activity ticket for the date of the activity.
• Season Ticket Holders should purchase their discounted tickets from the Members Ticket Area.
*Younger children may need additional instruction/assistance.

For more information and to book a place

Aim on the Plain - Archery

New for 2026 we are delighted to give children the opportunity to learn how to use a bow and arrow and aim for the target (not each other!). Aim on the Plain will teach children how to handle a bow and arrow and test their skills to hit the targets. Supported by instructors each child can fire up to 12 arrows and see how close they can get to the bullseye.

Dates:
Friday 14th August 2026
Saturday 15th August 2026

Times:
11:00 - 16:00
30 min slots to assist with queues

Price:
Child 6 years old and upwards: £5:00
• A Day Ticket must be purchased in addition to an activity ticket for the date of the activity.
• Season Ticket Holders should purchase their discounted tickets from the Members Ticket Area.

For more information and to book a place

Outdoor Climbing

Wiltshire Outdoor Learning Team helps children to learn and develop new skills whilst growing in confidence within a safe environment. This experience provides the perfect opportunity for beginners and climbing enthusiasts to get outdoors. Children will be fully briefed on the day by trained instructors. Parents should ensure they understand the risks of a physical activity and can watch (or take part) with their child, children cannot be left at this activity.

Dates:
Friday 21st August 2026
Saturday 22nd August 2026

Times:
11:00 - 16:00
30 min slots to assist with queues

Price:
Child 6 years old and upwards: £5:00
Parents*: £5:00
• A Day Ticket must be purchased in addition to an activity ticket for the date of the activity.
• Season Ticket Holders should purchase their discounted tickets from the Members Ticket Area.
*Maximum weight 125kg.

For more information and to book a place

Outdoor Exploration - Mud & Guts

Experience den building, fire lighting, game playing and exploring nature in the great outdoors. These outdoor adventures run for 3 hours either in the morning or afternoon. Advance parental/guardian consent forms for the child will be required in order to take part in the activity as children will be left with the fully trained/qualified instructors of Mud & Guts on the day.

Dates:
Tuesday 4th August
Tuesday 11th August
Tuesday 18th August
Tuesday 25th August

Times:
Morning session 09:30 - 12:30
Afternoon session 13:30 - 16:30

Price:
Child 6 -10 years old: £22.50 this prices includes day ticket entry for the child only into Bowood House & Gardens.
Season Ticket Holders should purchase their tickets from the Members Ticket Area.

For more information and to book a place

Wiltshire Game & Country Fair

Enjoy this fun, family day out in the stunning grounds of the Bowood Estate. A firm favourite since 2007 we are delighted to host Wiltshire Game & Country Fair showcasing country activities for the whole family. The main arena will once again host exciting and entertaining live displays. There are have-a-go sports, including fishing, axe throwing and craft workshops. The World of Dogs remains as popular as ever and offers agility and gun dog trials. The craft village, cookery demonstrations and food stalls are sure to delight and with a background of live music and fairground rides this truly is day out for everyone.

Dates:
Saturday 8th August 2026
Sunday 9th August 2026

Time:
10:00 - 18:00

Price:
Adults: £25.00
Over 65’s: £24.00
Child (5-15 incl): £8.00
• Prices exclude entry into Bowood House & Gardens.

Terms & Conditions:
Price does not include entry into Bowood House & Gardens.
This event is operated by the third-party.

For more information and to book a place

Arts & Crafts

During school holidays, those with a creative flair can head over to the Gardeners' Bothy for complimentary Arts & Crafts (subject to availability).

Things To Do For Families

Families with children aged 12 years and under can enjoy hours of fun in the Adventure Playground, including the pirate ship, treetop aerial walkways, slides and zip wires. Children aged 7 years and under can explore The Den & Activity Barn, with ride on tractors, den and sandcastle building, water play and indoor soft play. Children adore exploring the Arboretum and playing hide-and-seek amongst the 'champion' and record-breaking trees. There are hidden gems waiting to be found throughout the idyllic Grounds including a Cascade and the Hermit’s Cave.

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