Jump into summer with the National Trust’s Summer of Play supported by Pokémon

This summer, the National Trust’s much-loved Summer of Play returns, inviting families to enjoy outdoor adventures at 142 places across England, Wales and Northern Ireland - with all new experiences supported by Pokémon.

Taking place in some of the National Trust’s most inspiring locations, from nature reserves alive with bug hunting and wild exploring, shady woodlands made for den building and imaginative play, to wide open lawns perfect for team games, races and a kickabout, Summer of Play is designed to help families connect with nature and the outdoors through shared experiences.

Many sites will host Pokémon activities, where families can tackle challenges and trails inspired by their favourite Pokémon and collect stickers at each visit, while Pokémon GO fans will enjoy new National Trust Pokéstops and Gyms, plus exclusive gameplay experiences.

Carl Greenman, the National Trust’s Head of Visitor Experience, said:

“There’s such a natural fit between Pokémon and Summer of Play — both are about encouraging families to have fun together and explore the world around them.

“By bringing a globally loved brand, celebrating its 30th anniversary this year, into the places we care for, we’re helping more families discover them as spaces for play, adventure and shared experiences.

“We hope this partnership sparks curiosity and imagination, inspiring children and their grown-ups to get outdoors, play together and build a lasting connection with nature and heritage.”

Here’s how Pokémon will be supporting Summer of Play this year:

27 National Trust places, including Dunham Massey, in Altrincham, and Lyme, in Stockport, with dedicated Pokémon play zones, where families can tackle challenges inspired by Mega Evolution Pokémon from the Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) [1].

1.       15 National Trust places, including Quarry Bank, in Wilmslow, Speke Hall, in Liverpool, and Sizergh, near the Lake District, with Pokémon TCG Mega Evolution Trails with activities inspired by Mega Evolution Pokémon [2].

2.       At all 142 Summer of Play locations families can pick up a Pokémon x National Trust sticker book, collecting stickers across multiple visits.

3.       At selected locations, families will also be able to book special Pikachu appearances at four locations[3].

4.       Pokémon GO fans can enjoy even more with new National Trust Pokéstops and Gyms, Official Routes and themed in-game events.

To find your nearest Summer of Play experience visit:  
nationaltrust.org.uk/summer-of-play