9 Tips for Visiting Penshurst Place With Kids

Start your Penshurst Place adventure at 9am with breakfast at Porcupine Pantry Cafe, then head straight to the Adventure Playground near the entrance for that epic slide and medieval forts. Pack sturdy shoes for the 1km Woodland Trail, bring a picnic for the rolling fields, and time your house visit for after 11:30am when little legs are tired. Don’t miss the seasonal workshops and storytelling sessions—they’ll keep your kids engaged while you discover why this 14th-century gem has become Kent’s best-kept family secret.

Start Your Day Early at Porcupine Pantry Cafe

Starting your Penshurst Place adventure at the Porcupine Pantry Cafe isn’t just smart timing—it’s the secret to a stress-free family day out. Open daily from 9:00am, you’ll beat the crowds and secure the best seating while the kids are still fresh.

The converted barn setting offers both indoor comfort and outdoor space for buggies.

Here’s the game-changer: hot food’s only available until 3:30pm, so arriving early means proper breakfast or lunch options. The cafe’s well-stocked with allergy-friendly foods, and you can call ahead for specific dietary needs. For any questions about timings or facilities, you can reach them at +44 (0)1892 870307 before your visit.

Since the gardens don’t open until 10:00am, you’ve got time for a relaxed meal, toilet break, and energy boost before tackling the estate’s attractions.

Head Straight to the Adventure Playground for Active Fun

Once you’ve fueled up at the cafe, make the Adventure Playground your first official stop—trust me on this one. Located near the main entrance, you’ll avoid the dreaded backtrack with tired kids later.

This isn’t your typical plastic playground—we’re talking massive wooden structures with a commando trail, zip line, and medieval-style fort that’ll keep children busy for ages.

The genius move? Let them burn off energy before those quieter house tours. There’s a dedicated toddler zone up front for little ones, while older kids can tackle the assault-course features.

The open grassy area gives you clear sightlines for supervision, plus there’s a nearby kiosk for inevitable ice cream requests. Early arrival means smaller crowds too. The playground features an enormous slide that’s particularly popular with kids of all ages.

Explore the Woodland Trail and Maize Maze With Map in Hand

After the kids have conquered the Adventure Playground, grab that downloadable Gardens and Grounds map PDF before heading into Penshurst’s wilder side—the Woodland Trail in the Arboretum. This 1km loop’s perfect for little explorers, though you’ll want sturdy shoes since tree roots and muddy patches make the path uneven. Watch carefully near the deep water sections—they’re clearly marked but still require supervision.

Your kids will love discovering the log pyramids and whimsical mushroom carvings scattered throughout. The self-guided trail panels turn nature-spotting into an adventure, highlighting woodland wildlife and conservation themes. Use your map to connect this trail with visits to the Trout Lakes or Lake Park for a longer outdoor experience. Within Lake Park, you’ll find the Lancup Well, beautifully encased in a semi-circle of clipped yew columns that creates an intriguing focal point for curious young minds.

The shaded woodland’s ideal for warm days.

Pack a Picnic for the Rolling Fields and Grassy Areas

Working up an appetite on the Woodland Trail makes the perfect setup for your next family adventure—spreading out a picnic blanket in Penshurst’s rolling fields. You’ll find the designated picnic area off Lime Walk, complete with fixed benches. But don’t overlook the vast parkland where blankets work perfectly on sunny days.

Pack finger foods that won’t create chaos when kids dash between eating and playing on the nearby Adventure Playground. The Porcupine Pantry opens at 9am if you need backup supplies or hot drinks, and there’s even an ice cream kiosk by the playground.

Bring refillable water bottles—those 11 acres of open space mean lots of running around. A waterproof groundsheet handles dewy grass, while sun hats protect during long outdoor lunches. For a well-rounded family meal, include all food groups like protein-rich cheese sticks, fresh fruit, and wholegrain sandwiches to keep energy levels up for afternoon adventures.

Time Your Visit to the Historic House Carefully

While the gardens welcome families from 10am, the historic house doesn’t open until 11:30am—and that timing difference can make or break your day with restless kids.

You’ve got two smart strategies: arrive early to tire them out in the Adventure Playground first, or save the house for after lunch when they’re naturally calmer.

Here’s the catch—last entry’s at 3:30pm, so don’t get too carried away exploring the grounds.

I’ve watched countless families rush through the stunning medieval hall because they miscalculated timing.

Plan your house visit for mid-afternoon when younger kids might even nap in the stroller while you admire the architecture. The Sidney family has called this place home since 1552, giving the rooms an authentic lived-in feel that brings history to life.

The house closes seasonally for filming, so check dates before traveling.

Make a Wish at the Well in the Walled Gardens

Once you’ve explored the house, head toward the walled gardens where Lancup Well creates pure magic for kids who still believe in wishes. This Tudor-era well sits beautifully framed by clipped yew columns, offering the perfect backdrop for wish-making traditions.

Access it through the gate left of the Lime Walk and Picnic Area – it’s a fair walk from the house but worth every step.

The well’s location provides stunning views of Penshurst Place, making it ideal for family photos. Since it’s part of the original drainage system from the 1500s, there’s genuine history here that older kids appreciate.

The surrounding walled gardens burst with seasonal color, fruit trees, and hidden corners to explore. If you’re arriving by car, you’ll find ample free parking near the Visitor Entrance, making it easy to start your garden adventure. Plan this as part of your relaxed garden stroll.

Plan Craft Activities at the Old Coach House

Looking for an indoor break that’ll keep the kids engaged while you catch your breath? The Old Coach House craft barn is your answer. Located right in the play area cluster, this converted stable offers free make-and-take craft sessions during school holidays and special events.

Your kids can create lavender bags using dried herbs and fabric, or try those adorable grass-head creatures that’ll sprout “hair” over the coming weeks. The activities are designed for primary-age children, focusing on imagination rather than complex instructions.

Check Penshurst’s events calendar before visiting, as craft sessions don’t run daily. During “Summer Sundays,” they’re included in your admission price. The sessions typically run on Tuesdays & Thursdays from late July through the end of August, giving you multiple opportunities throughout the summer holidays. It’s perfect for shifting between high-energy playground time and quieter moments, plus everyone leaves with a homemade souvenir.

Attend Seasonal Events Throughout the Year

Penshurst Place transforms dramatically with each season, offering your family fresh reasons to return throughout the year. Summer holidays pack the most punch with included activities from July through August. Your kids will love weekly Alice in Wonderland storytelling sessions every Sunday, plus Saturday falconry demonstrations and Wednesday bushcraft adventures featuring s’mores and archery.

Christmas brings magical experiences worth planning ahead for. The Last N.O.E.L Mini Panto runs weekends in December with special quiet sessions for children with sensory needs. Don’t miss the Bumper Christmas Farmers Market on December 20th – it’s free, features carol singing, and Father Christmas makes appearances. The pantomime shows are conveniently 25-minute performances perfect for young attention spans.

Book seasonal workshops like wreath-making or book folding for unique family memories. These events fill quickly, so reserve tickets early for the best selection.

Bring Emergency Snacks From the Playground Kiosk

While you’re watching your toddler navigate the climbing frame for the tenth time, you’ll discover that the playground kiosk becomes your secret weapon against mid-afternoon meltdowns. Located right beside the Adventure Playground, this convenient spot stocks ice cream, drinks, and grab-and-go snacks that’ll rescue you when energy levels crash.

The kiosk operates “from the Pantry,” connecting to Porcupine Pantry’s supply. Though it’s typically open weekends and school holidays rather than quiet weekdays, smart parents buy snacks early in their visit since popular items often sell out by early afternoon during peak season. The facility was extended in 2019 to better serve families visiting the playground area.

You’ll appreciate being able to purchase treats while still supervising playground action. These quick energy boosts help extend playtime before needing proper meals from the Garden Restaurant.

The Sum Up

You’ll discover that Penshurst Place becomes magical when you’re prepared. I’ve watched countless families rush through without a plan, missing the best bits. Don’t make that mistake! You’ve got everything you need now – from knowing the café opens early to packing those emergency snacks. Trust me, when your kids are begging to stay longer instead of asking “Are we done yet?”, you’ll know you’ve nailed it.