An exciting new woodland playground, free for all the family to enjoy, will open in the grounds of Waddesdon Manor in 2026.

The playground has been designed for the Manor and its woodland setting, offering a rich connection with nature through play with imaginative structures, swings, slides and much more.

This unique, bespoke design is made using natural wood and other materials and has been created by playground specialists TouchWood exclusively for Waddesdon. The new space will be bursting with areas to climb, run and play or to just enjoy being outdoors, and includes extended easily accessible pathways for parents to get involved too.

And alongside this new playground Waddesdon Manor is planning further outdoor fun and experiences for 2026 with nature-inspired activities and events throughout the year.

It begins with a series of atmospheric, enchanting winter walks in January,  when whether in snow, frost or low seasonal sun, you can enjoy winter and spring blooms – just make sure to wrap up warm before you wind your way through Waddesdon’s wintery wonderland.

Then as spring approaches, the Parkland Spring bulb tours begin in the beautiful gardens at Eythrope from February. Depending on the time you visit, you’ll see snowdrops, daffodils, cherry and apple blossoms, cyclamen or tulips.

March will see the reopening of the House for the new season with new displays including two rooms telling the story of Waddesdon and the Rothschild family. March also heralds the return of the celebrated National Trust Festival of Blossom with fresh flower displays in the Manor. And a new nature trail on Miss Alice’s Drive will open, starting at the Conservation Hub to explore the natural environment and the rich biodiversity on site.

Spring will also see the opening of a new exhibition by father and daughter light artists Bruce and Tink Munro, with the former returning to Waddesdon after a 4-year residency more than a decade ago. The inspiration for both artists comes from their relationship with the natural world and the new works will explore time and place through digital photography, light, projection and sound, including a light translation of Vivaldi’s Four Seasons.

In April the popular National Trust Easter  Adventures programme returns with a fun-filled outdoor trail jam packed with games and creative activities around the garden. 

May will bring a unique interactive installation to the grounds, and the stars of the show are the trees. Experience The Tree Listening Project with the help of headphones and advanced acoustic technology and you will be immersed in the secret world of trees, listening as water travels from the roots to the leaves, and understanding the important role of trees in supporting our ecosphere.

There is also the return of Art in Nature as leading land and environmental artists come to Waddesdon to create more beautiful works, including another intervention by James Brunt. And the much-loved tours of Eythrope gardens will be giving people even more opportunity to enjoy the beauty all around us.

As summer arrives Open Farm Sunday in June  gives a fascinating insight into the crucial work of farmers. Hosted on the wider Waddesdon estate, visitors will be able to learn more about farming, the countryside and wildlife, with activities for the whole family including sheep-shearing, tractor riding and environmentally friendly farming demonstrations.

During July and August,   the National Trust’s Summer of Play comes to Waddesdon with extra special trails, activities and den building.

Golds, scarlets, oranges and yellow show Waddesdon in dazzling Autumn colour when September and October  bring falling leaves and changing temperatures. And as the scarves come out so will the spooky as Haunted Half Term returns with a week of activities and family fun throughout the house and grounds. In 2026 Halloween will be bigger and better than ever, so watch this space.

Alongside all this, there is a regular programme of outdoor events, and plenty of opportunities to simply enjoy the peace and beauty of the surroundings, from glorious garden walks and explorations on the estate to being mindful of mindfulness, whether gazing at the stars, witnessing the dawn chorus, pot planting, meadow walks, and a range of activities and tours spotting the animals and insects that make Waddesdon their home.

For full details of everything that Waddesdon has to offer for families, garden lovers and art fans – please visit the website.