A Day Out at Trentham Gardens: Nature, Adventure & Lakeside Fun

Earlier this May, we spent a delightful day at Trentham Gardens near Stoke-on-Trent.  This 725-acre estate offers a perfect blend of nature, adventure, and relaxation, making it an ideal destination for families.

🌿 Lakeside Walk & Picnic

Our adventure began with the serene mile-long lakeside walk, offering picturesque views and encounters with nature. Although we didn’t take the ferry this time, you can catch it from either end of the lake for a shorter walk for little legs- this is always exciting. After our walk, we settled down for a picnic in the beautifully landscaped Italian Gardens, perfect for a relaxing family meal amidst nature. It also offers many shaded areas, if you need to catch a break from the ever changing UK weather. 

🍦 Dining & Ice Cream Delights

While we brought our own picnic, we couldn't resist the delicious ice creams available on-site.  For those looking to dine out, Trentham offers a variety of eateries, including cafes and restaurants within the shopping village.

👣 Barefoot Walk & Maze Adventures

One of the highlights for the children was the UK's first Barefoot Walk.  They loved the sensation of different textures underfoot.  Following that, we ventured into the maze, where the kids enjoyed finding their way through the twists and turns.

🛝Adventure park

The kids spent treasured time in the adventure playground, a dynamic space where they can engage in a variety of activities:

• Altitude Tower: A tower that provides challenge and excitement, climbing to the top and provides slides back to the ground.

• Climbing Wall: Encourages kids to navigate their way to the top.

• Agility Course: A fun challenge which tests balance and coordination.

• Swings and Slides: Classic playground favourites that never go out of style.

• Viking Rope Swing & 'Queen of Swings'

• Twin Zip-lines: Kids can race side by side.

• 'The Whirlwind' Roundabout

Toddler zone

For the little ones, this offers a safe place to play, explore and develop those important skills for their precious bodies:

• Nautical-Themed Adventure Area: Willow dens and tunnels that spark imagination.

• Sand Play Area: Activity boats, one of which is wheelchair accessible.

• Sand play Activity Tower and Wobbly Leaves: These structures help develop balance and coordination.

• Digger Equipment.

🛍️ Shopping Village & Great Deals

After our garden adventures, we explored the Trentham Shopping Village.  With a range of shops, we managed to snag some great deals at Regatta, perfect for our outdoor needs.

🛶 Water Activities

While we didn't partake this time, Trentham offers water activities like rowing, canoeing, and kayaking on the lake.  These activities provide a unique way to experience the beauty of the gardens from the water.

🚻 Facilities & Accessibility

Trentham Gardens is well-equipped with facilities to cater to families:

Toilets & Baby Changing: Available throughout the estate, including accessible toilets and baby changing facilities.

Changing Places Facility: Located in the shopping village, equipped with a special changing bench and hoist. 

Accessibility: The estate features accessible pathways suitable for prams and wheelchairs.  Wheelchair hire is available at the Gardens Entrance. 

Shaded Areas: Plenty of shaded spots are available, ideal for resting and picnicking.

🚗Parking

Parking is hassle-free and free of charge.

🎤 Upcoming Events

Trentham Gardens hosts various events throughout the year.  This summer, from June 27 to July 26, they have a line-up of concerts, including tributes to ABBA and Queen.

🎟️ Admission Prices (as of May 2025)

Adults: £13.00 (or £11.70 if booked online 48 hours in advance)

Children (3-15 years): £9.50 (or £8.55 online)

Under 3s: Free

Family Ticket: From £37.50 

Booking online not only saves money but also offers discounts on activity packs.

Note: We intended to use our Blue Peter badges for kids free entry, but they aren't valid during special events like the Shaun the Sheep trail.

💡 Tips for Visiting with Kids

Plan Ahead: Check the official website for any events that might affect entry or ticket validity.

Pack Essentials: Bring sun cream, hats, and water bottles, especially during sunny days.

Engage in Activities: The Fairy Quest and other interactive trails keep children entertained.

Explore the Monkey Forest: Located within the estate, it's home to 140 free-roaming Barbary macaques.

💭Final Thoughts

Trentham Gardens offers a blend of natural beauty, fun activities, and relaxation.  Whether you're looking to explore, shop, or simply unwind, it's a destination that caters to all ages and abilities.

Have you been to Trentham? Did you enjoy your visit?

• Yes, I enjoyed it
• Yes, but I wouldn't go again
• No, I would like to visit
• No, I'm not interested in visiting