National Trust – The Children's Country House at Sudbury

The Children’s Country House at Sudbury is a playful reimagining of a grand 17th‑century estate, designed to let families explore history through curiosity and hands‑on discovery. Housed within Sudbury Hall, once home to the Vernon family, the attraction blends ornate architecture with interactive experiences. Visitors can admire intricate ceiling paintings by Louis Laguerre and lavish wood carvings attributed to Grinling Gibbons, then step into rooms where you can dance in the Saloon, pose in the Long Gallery, or join games in the Drawing Room. A major highlight is the Museum of Childhood, which traces the realities and adventures of growing up across centuries. Exhibits include Victorian schoolrooms, chimney‑sweep tunnels, doll’s houses, toys from different eras, and the remarkable Betty Cadbury Collection of mechanical playthings. Immersive zones such as the Space Station, Digital Play Zone and Exploriosity encourage creativity and movement. Outside, the gardens offer colourful parterre planting, lakeside views, woodland paths and quiet picnic spots. Families can enjoy giant outdoor games, seasonal activities and relaxed strolls through the grounds. Together, the house, museum and gardens create a lively, imaginative heritage experience for all ages.