A Family Day Out at Wallington, Northumberland
On Bank Holiday Monday, 25 August, we set off with the grandchildren, and this time their parents as well, for a day out at Wallington in Northumberland (NE61 4AR). It’s a National Trust property just over an hour’s drive from Durham and a place we’ve visited several times before. The weather was glorious, which always makes a difference, but we’ve been on damp, grey days too, and it never seems to spoil the experience.
The historic house at Wallington, set within vast parkland and gardens.
One of several play areas at Wallington, popular with children of all ages.
Wallington – A National Trust Family Day Out
The first thing to say is that Wallington is vast. The estate stretches out in every direction, with wide open spaces and enough variety to keep all ages entertained. There are four play areas dotted around the grounds, from a fort and rope bridge to a general play area with zip line, swings, and more. The play train and platform were closed for maintenance during our visit, but there was still plenty to keep the children busy.
Accessibility is generally good. We had the pushchair with us, which was handy given how much walking there is for little legs. Some of the woodland walks on the western side, especially those involving stepping stones, would be trickier with toddlers, but overall the site is manageable and family-friendly.
If you enjoy historic houses, you might also like some of the ideas on our Things to do in Durham City page.
Woodland Walks and the Walled Garden
One of the highlights of the day was the walk through the eastern woodland, which winds its way towards the walled garden. Along the path we passed dragon heads, willow sculptures, ponds, wood carvings, and even some rather unexpected statues. These touches add a sense of discovery, with something new around each corner to capture the children’s attention.
The walled garden itself is always a delight. In late summer it was brimming with colour, full of flowers and planting that appeal to adults and children alike. At other times of year it has its own special character - in spring, the carpets of snowdrops and the crocus lawn make the journey worthwhile all by themselves.
Picnics and Cafés
As usual, we brought our own picnic, and Wallington offers no shortage of places to sit and enjoy it. The expanse of lawns and shaded corners makes it easy to find a spot, even on a Bank Holiday. For those who prefer to buy food on site, there are several options. The Clocktower Café sits just beyond the main entrance, with hot food, drinks, and plenty of indoor seating. Near the fort you can grab a pizza and a coffee, which proved very popular with families on the day we visited. At the far end of the walled garden there is also a smaller café - ideal for a quick drink or an ice cream before heading back.
Plenty of Space, Whatever the Weather
Being a Bank Holiday, the car park was busy and there were lots of families about, but Wallington is so large that it never felt crowded. The children could run, explore, and climb without it ever seeming cramped. We ended up spending around six hours there, and still didn’t cover everything. That’s one of the joys of Wallington: no matter how many times you go, there always seems to be something different happening, whether it’s a seasonal trail, a new display in the gardens, or simply the changes that come with the turning year.
Practical Information for Visitors
Location: Wallington, Northumberland, NE61 4AR
Parking: Ample on-site parking (included for National Trust members).
Facilities: Several play areas, extensive grounds, cafés, picnic spaces.
Accessibility: Most paths suitable for pushchairs, though some woodland routes are more challenging.
More information: Check the National Trust Wallington website for up-to-date details on opening times, ticket prices, and special events.
Final Thoughts
Wallington is one of those places that offers something for everyone. From play areas for the younger children to woodland trails and gardens for adults to enjoy, it’s an easy day out that feels both relaxed and full of discovery. Whether you go in spring, summer, or the depths of winter, there’s always something new to notice. We’ll definitely be back again before too long. If you’re looking for a family-friendly day out within reach of Durham, Wallington is well worth putting on your list.
Geoff has been a Durham Pointer for 7 years. Geoff’s Jaunts track his adventures with his wife and young grandchildren, as they constantly look for activities to keep the little people busy:
“We are grandparents in our early seventies, reasonably active, and blessed with four grandchildren. Three are school age and busy during term time, but on Mondays we look after the youngest, a lively two-year-old boy. Mondays can sometimes be tricky, as many attractions are closed, but we have learned to find plenty to do in County Durham, Teesside and North Yorkshire whatever the weather. It does not always go smoothly, but he is wonderfully forgiving.”
