Dunham Massey announce Spring and Summer 2026 programme

Dunham Massey has you covered for spring and summer days out, from a slow look at a Rembrandt self-portrait in the historic house, to outdoor days of circus and craft, and a formal garden full of seasonal blooms.

"Around half a million visitors every year tell us that there's lots of love for days out at Dunham Massey," said Katie Clayton, Visitor Experience and Programming Manager. "That's why we've built a bustling and varied programme of events — it's a wonderful place that should be enjoyed in many ways, by everyone."

For the full round-up, visit the Dunham Massey website.

FOR FAMILIES

Easter Adventures at Dunham Massey 26 March – 19 April | Park and garden | Admission charges apply (+£3.50 per trail)

Enjoy a family-friendly trail filled with fun activities for all ages. Hop around 10 trail points around the park and garden and let the adventure begin. Includes a chocolate or free-from egg made using cocoa from Rainforest Alliance Certified farms, a trail sheet and bunny ears.

Musical Mondays 4 & 25 May (Bank Holiday Mondays) | 12noon, 1pm & 2pm | In the garden | Admission charges apply

Set against the backdrop of the Georgian house and surrounded by seasonal flowers, take a moment to relax on the formal lawn and enjoy live music in the garden. Medieval Jukebox bring a fun, calm and uplifting performance, creating memorable moments using the harp and dulcimer.

Summer of Play 10 July – 6 September | North Park | Admission charges apply

A summer season packed with play, creativity and discovery throughout the holidays. Enjoy picnics in the garden, learn circus skills and dance moves, or take a moment to get lost in crafts and stories. Every day is different. Check Dunham Massey's Facebook and Instagram for the full schedule of events and activities.

From Here to There: A Tour for Children Until 1 November | Inside the house | Admission charges apply

Step inside the historic house and set off on an adventure with Speechly the Pineapple. Grab a Pineapple Passport from the entrance of the house, keep an eye out for stacked suitcases along the way, and collect five different stamps.

INSIDE THE HOUSE

Meet Rembrandt: A Slow Looking Experience 27 March – 12 July | 11am – 4pm | Limited on-the-day entry | Admission charges apply

Spend time with one of the National Trust's greatest treasures, as Rembrandt's self-portrait comes to Dunham Massey. What will you see when you slow the pace? Check available times on-the-day at the Welcome Desk. Early arrival recommended.

ORIGIN 1 May – 1 November (selected dates only) | Limited on-the-day entry | Admission charges apply

Explore the powerful themes of life's cycle and our connection to nature. A deep listening experience that will slow the pace and connect you to the mansion and garden.

Visit the Dunham Massey House Until 1 November | 11am – 4pm | Admission charges apply

Home to the Booth and Grey families for over 400 years, Dunham Massey holds generations of stories. Discover portraits of pets and people, a collection of fine silver, and beautifully decorated rooms — be sure not to miss the ornate library.

Those visiting with children can relax at the indoor book nook and follow the From Here to There family trail, stamping their Pineapple Passport as they go.

IN THE GARDEN

The Botanical World of Mary Delany Until 1 November | In the Orangery | Admission charges apply

With just coloured paper, scissors and glue, Mary Delany transformed ordinary materials into extraordinary artworks. Explore their intricate detail through this photographic display of her exquisite collages, in partnership with the British Museum.

A Garden for All Seasons Open all year | 10am – 4pm (spring and summer) | Admission charges apply

Unwind in the natural beauty of the garden. From crocus to bluebells, the garden is alive with bright bulbs and a striking blend of colour throughout the warmer months. Highlights include a meadow of daffodils, a celebration of tulips across the garden, the Rose Garden in full bloom, and picnics on the lawn.

Garden Tours March – November | Monday to Friday (except Bank Holidays, subject to volunteer availability) | Admission charges apply

From extensive woodland with winding paths and seasonal meadows, to the formal parterre and beds that frame the 300-year-old Georgian house — there are always new buds to spot and floral displays to enjoy. Tours are presented by a knowledgeable group of dedicated volunteers, with timings confirmed on the day.

EVERYDAY FAVOURITES

Deer Spotting As you wander through the parkland, you may catch sight of fallow deer grazing beneath ancient trees or resting beside historic walls. Take a quiet moment to observe them in their natural setting, but remember to admire from a distance — giving the deer plenty of space helps protect their wellbeing and keeps the park a peaceful habitat for wildlife.

Picnic in the Garden Pause for a picnic on the formal lawn and take in the historic backdrop of the house, or settle beneath the shade of ancient trees surrounded by colourful seasonal blooms. With fresh air, open space and the beauty of the garden all around, it's the ideal setting for a relaxed afternoon.

The Log Pile Head to the North Park, where the Log Pile invites adventurers to explore. Clamber over large fallen trees, balance across stepping-stone stumps, and enjoy the freedom of a natural play area designed for discovery and imagination.

Mill Tours March – November | Tuesday to Friday (subject to volunteer availability) | Admission charges apply

The Mill at Dunham Massey is the oldest building within the park's walls. Join a volunteer-led tour and discover how this building changed from a cornmill to a sawmill before coming into the care of the National Trust. Try grinding corn into flour, feel the spray from the water wheel, and see the unique surviving frame saw. Times confirmed on the day — please check on arrival for details.

Seasonal Walks Walks are a great way to explore the parkland and historic surroundings for visitors of all ages. Follow the trail routes, discover hidden corners, and enjoy a self-guided adventure around the estate. The 'Mini Park Loop' and 'Get in Touch with Nature' walks are a perfect place to start in this 300-acre park.

OTHER NATIONAL TRUST HIGHLIGHTS

Bloomtown, Manchester Saturday 21 March – Sunday 31 May

As seasonal blossom and blue skies take hold, the National Trust's Bloomtown launches with bike rides, poetry walks, arts, crafts and storytelling in parks and green spaces across Manchester. nationaltrust.org.uk/bloomtown

Quarry Bank Throughout spring and summer

Families will love the top floor play space in the historic Mill, with undercover soft play, giant board games and lively puppet shows. Don't miss opportunities to perform and craft during school holidays. nationaltrust.org.uk/quarry-bank

Castlefield Viaduct Wednesday to Sunday, throughout spring and summer

Explore this Victorian-era railway viaduct transformed into Manchester's 'garden in the sky'. Visit to take a break from the city buzz, or book onto one of the events and workshops happening throughout spring and summer, including watercolour painting, wildflower growing and blossom-inspired poetry walks. nationaltrust.org.uk/castlefield-viaduct

Lyme Throughout spring and summer

From wellbeing walks in the 1,400-acre park and garden, to stepping inside the historic house, to Easter adventures for families — take a day out to enjoy the grandeur of Lyme and the beauty of its rural-to-city views. nationaltrust.org.uk/lyme