Family friendly

About
Hartland Abbey holds a unique charm as it continues to be cherished by the family, distinguishing itself from many ancestral homes that have transitioned into mere museums. Here, you’ll encounter the genuine warmth and hospitality that can only be found in a home that is truly lived in.

Experience a heartfelt welcome as you step through the doors, followed by the option of a captivating, guided tour for groups, should you desire one. Alternatively, take your time to explore the house, gardens, and scenic walks at your own pace, indulging in a delightful lunch or cream tea—or why not both?

Whether you opt for a guided tour or a leisurely wander, Hartland Abbey promises an unforgettable experience imbued with the essence of family heritage and a genuine sense of home.

History
Constructed in 1157 and consecrated by Bishop Bartholomew of Exeter in 1160 AD, Hartland Abbey began its journey as a monastery for the regular canons of the Order of St Augustine of Hippo. For nearly four centuries, it stood as a spiritual haven until 1539 when it witnessed the dissolution of monasteries under Henry VIII’s reign, becoming the last monastery in the country to succumb to this fate.

Following its dissolution, Henry VIII bestowed Hartland Abbey upon Mr. William Abbott, the Sergeant of his Wine Cellar at Hampton Court. This generous gift initiated a new chapter in the abbey’s history, as the Abbott family became its custodians, passing down the stewardship through generations. Today, descendants of Mr. William Abbott continue to reside within the Abbey, preserving its rich heritage and sharing its captivating stories with visitors.

Visitor Information
A visit to Hartland Abbey promises fun and fascination for visitors of all ages, with its enchanting gardens and sprawling grounds offering a delightful array of activities. While adults immerse themselves in the rich history of the house and gardens, children can embark on an adventure with the Abbey Quiz (with a prize for all), follow the Malory Towers Trail, or explore the charming paths and woodland walks teeming with nature’s wonders—a total of 3 1/2 miles to explore!

Indulge in delicious homemade light lunches and cream teas at the Old Kitchens Tea Room (accessible only with House and/or Garden tickets), offering a delightful culinary experience amidst historic surroundings.

Don’t miss out on the engaging exhibitions, museum, gift shop, and plant stall, where you can uncover treasures and souvenirs to cherish.

While access to the house involves steps and may pose challenges for wheelchairs, assistance is available. The Tea Room and Exhibitions offer flat and wheelchair-accessible pathways. Unfortunately, electric mobility wheelchairs cannot be accommodated inside the house due to narrow rooms and corridors. However, the surrounding gravel areas provide ease of movement, and the gardens boast accessible sections, such as The Shrubbery.

For outdoor enthusiasts, picnics can be enjoyed on the spacious grassy car park, offering a perfect setting for relaxation and al fresco dining.

While they adore dogs at Hartland Abbey, they kindly request that they remain on leads. Guide dogs are welcome inside the house. Ample parking is available adjacent to the house, ensuring convenience for all visitors.

Parsonage Farm, nestled in the heart of Devon, holds a century-long legacy within its fields. It serves as the backdrop to Michael Morpurgo’s renowned novel, War Horse, set amidst the picturesque parish of Iddesleigh.

This hidden gem of Devonian countryside boasts breathtaking vistas of rolling hills and verdant valleys, with Dartmoor standing majestically in the distance.

Come and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of War Horse Valley – explore its agricultural heritage, uncover the stories of its resilient inhabitants, and delve into the wartime narratives that echo through its landscapes.

Step into the 400-year-old cob barn and discover nine captivating exhibitions:

World War I Exhibition: Delve into the impact of the war on Devon and the crucial role of horses in the conflict.

Parson Jack Russell: Learn about the legacy of Parson Jack Russell, the pioneering breeder behind the iconic terrier breed.

Farms for City Children: Explore the charitable work of Michael Morpurgo and his wife Clare in founding Farms for City Children.

Michael Morpurgo’s Books: Dive into the enchanting world of Michael Morpurgo’s literary creations.

War Horse: Experience the timeless tale of Joey and Albert through the book, play, and film adaptations.

Local Parish History: Uncover the rich history of nearby parishes, steeped in tradition and community.

Antique Farming Methods: Journey back in time to discover the farming techniques of yesteryear.

Vintage Farm Machinery: Marvel at a collection of historical farm equipment, including century-old tractors and ploughs.

World War I Style Trench: Brace yourself for a journey into the trenches, complete with surprises along the way!

Meet the menagerie of animals:
Joey the Horse
Miniature Shetland Ponies
Sheep
The 5 Alpacas
Geese Gertie & Gregory
Chickens galore
Dotty the rabbit
Pigs
Ducks
not forgetting the goats Rosie, Custard and Maria!

All the family will enjoy the Warhorse Valley Country Farm Trail, a scenic half-mile walk that winds through the countryside. Take a tractor and trailer ride across the fields and back to the Warhorse Valley Tearoom, where you can indulge in Devonshire Cream Teas and mouthwatering cakes while soaking in the panoramic views.
With comfortable seating both indoors and outdoors, including disabled access, and convenient facilities like toilets and handwashing stations, War Horse Valley Country Park ensure a delightful visit for all their visitors.

Coasteering with Saltwater Safari

Embark on an exhilarating coasteering adventure with Saltwater Safari, tailored exclusively for you. Simply gear up in a wetsuit, buoyancy aid, safety helmet, and old trainers, and immerse yourself in the thrill of scrambling, climbing, swimming, grinning, and cliff jumping along Cornwall’s breathtaking rocky coastline.

Saltwater Safari coasteering activities are conducted as private sessions, ensuring a personalized experience just for you. Whether you’re seeking a unique family bonding experience in a supportive setting or an adventurous outing with friends, Saltwater Safari has you covered.

“Although jumping is optional, the majority find it hard to resist the excitement!”

To prepare for an invigorating coasteering experience with Saltwater Safari. You’ll be equipped with everything you need, including a winter wetsuit, buoyancy aid, and safety helmet.

Just bring along your swimmers, some old trainers or winter wet suit boots, boardshorts if you have them, suncream for your face, a towel for convenient roadside changing, and warm clothes to change into for post-coasteering comfort.

Saltwater Safari happily accommodates children for coasteering, but request that an adult joins in to share the adventure together. Get ready for an unforgettable coasteering experience.

Discover the joy of exclusive experiences with Saltwater Safari. All our activities are tailored as private sessions Just For You, providing the ideal opportunity to craft shared memories with family and friends. These moments will stay with you, ensuring your holiday lives on in your stories long after you’ve returned home!

The inspiration for our creative endeavours is drawn from the Cornish word for family, “Teylu.” Together, as a family unit, we have ventured into the world of fused glass art and workshops, creating pieces that reflect the beauty and warmth synonymous with the Cornish spirit.

In the heart of our artistic journey is Beau Nidol, a space where two sisters, fuelled by a passion for cutting glass and crafting fused glass art, collaborate with their mother, Julie. Beyond being a family-run venture, it’s a place where creativity flourishes, and the unique charm of Cornwall infuses every creation.

From these roots, Teylu Glass emerged—a testament to the bonds of family and the pursuit of a life where moments with loved ones take precedence. We invite you to join us on this extraordinary adventure, where art, family, and the Cornish spirit converge to create something truly exceptional. Welcome to Teylu Glass, where every piece tells a story of family, love, and the beauty of Cornwall.

At Teylu Glass, our customers are an extension of our family. Our aim is to create an atmosphere where you feel entirely at ease and relaxed during workshops. We want you to derive the utmost enjoyment from your time with us, crafting beautiful, fused glass items. Your comfort is our priority, and we look forward to welcoming you into our creative space. We have an array of workshops, including engaging sessions tailored for primary-aged children, workshops designed for those aged 12 and above, and exclusive private parties ideal for hens, stags, team-building events, and birthday celebrations. We’re also equipped to accommodate small school groups or clubs such as scouts and youth clubs.

Immerse Yourself in Creativity at the Kitchen Front

At the Kitchen Front, our workshops are guided by professional and experienced illustrators and crafters who bring a wealth of expertise to every session.

Unleash your creativity as you explore various techniques such as splatter, print, and stencil under the expert guidance of our talented instructors. Our participants often surprise themselves by daring to try new methods, resulting in unique and personalized creations.

Beyond the joy of crafting, our workshops offer more than just fun—they provide a serene and tranquil experience. Many participants share that the immersive nature of the activities fosters a sense of calm and relaxation. The creative atmosphere at the Kitchen Front sets the stage for a truly unique and inspiring journey.

Discover a world of artistic possibilities with our diverse workshops:

Ceramic Kitchenware:
We believe in the fusion of practicality and beauty. Join us, and we will personally guide you in building your artistic confidence through illustration techniques. We firmly stand by the belief that everyone can do art, even if you think you can’t. Explore our extensive selection of practical bisque, ready for you to transform into unique pieces. Once glazed and fired, our kitchenware becomes not only functional but also dishwasher safe.

Stoneware Workshops:
Welcome to the world of stoneware at our workshops! What sets it apart? Stoneware, known for its robust nature compared to earthenware, introduces a unique dimension to your creations. Prepare to be captivated by the outcome, the resulting pieces are nothing short of stunning. Each creation boasts a unique beauty and fluidity that sets it apart.

In our dedicated stoneware workshops, your pieces undergo a separate firing process at exceptionally high temperatures, resulting in a vitrified surface that adds durability and character to your masterpieces.

Book Binding:
Unleash your imagination as you learn the art of creating beautifully bound books. Our workshop is a lovely introduction to book binding using the concertina technique.

Fabric Block Print:
Dive into the world of textile artistry and create unique patterns with fabric block printing. We will guide you through the fascinating process of creating a block print from wood, employing a variety of mark-making materials. You then choose from a diverse selection of practical items, including aprons, bags, T-shirts, and tea towels.

Sweet Indulgence: Elevate Your Experience with Homemade Cake and Tea

As a delightful bonus, each workshop with us includes a serving of our proper homemade cake accompanied by a steaming cup of tea or coffee. Picture yourself savoring these treats on our charming vintage china, adding an extra touch of nostalgia and elegance to your creative journey.

For private groups, the indulgence goes a step further—you get to choose the cake or opt for a delightful Cream Tea experience. Make every moment special with the perfect blend of creativity and culinary delight at our studio.

Beyond Workshops:

Cherish Little Hands and Feet:
At our studio, we go beyond workshops to create lasting memories. In the blink of an eye, your child grows so quickly, and it can be challenging to recall just how small they once were. The Kitchen Front is here to help you hold onto those precious memories. Capture precious moments with your little ones through personalized hand and footprints.

Take Creativity Home: Art Kits for Your Own Time
Introducing our Takeaway Home Art Kits—a creative escape right in the comfort of your space. If our workshop timings don’t align with your schedule or you prefer the freedom to create at your own pace, these kits are the perfect solution.

Our Art Kits are fully comprehensive, providing everything you need:

• A selection of vibrant paints
• Mark making tools including a straw, sponge, scratchy stick, and paint brushes
• Your choice of ceramic item from our extensive collection
• Unleash your artistic spirit at home, on your own terms, with our thoughtfully curated Art Kits.

A garden full of inspiration

Set in a beautiful valley in the heart of North Devon between two National Parks, RHS Rosemoor is a 65 acre haven for biodiversity and wildlife has something for everyone.

A feast for the senses

Explore their famous ‘garden rooms’, each themed to celebrate the seasons in different planting styles and designs, where the plants are always the star.

Luxuriate in the scent of over 250 rose varieties in two dedicated gardens, at their fragrant peak in June.

Experience a blaze of reds, oranges and yellows in the Hot Garden with swathes of vibrant plants or unwind in the soothing pastels and blues of the Cool Garden, a tranquil oasis with a teardrop-shaped pond.

Discover trees from every continent of the Northern Hemisphere, see their Devon orchard with rare heritage apple trees or be inspired by the range of delectable edibles grown in the Fruit and Vegetable Garden.

Families can let their imaginations run wild exploring woodland walks – try your hand at den making or follow the leaf rubbing trail!

A hive of activity

The garden comes alive with craft fairs, workshops, live music and more throughout the year, with something to do every school holiday. Join a creative class, improve your gardening knowledge at one of the regular courses or just sit back and be entertained! Relish the delights of the Festival of Flavours, get nostalgic at the Vintage weekend or just get festive at the annual Glow illuminations.

Savour local flavours

Taste produce from Rosemoor’s own garden and enjoy locally-sourced delicacies carefully prepared on site in a range of meal and snack options, or treat yourself to a delicious cream tea with garden views.

Green shopping

They have plants for any space: big, small or indoors and offer a 5-year guarantee on hardy plants. Local artisan produce and crafts, horticultural and lifestyle books, gifts and sustainable homeware also available.

The South West’s only attraction named Tripadvisor Best of the Best every year from 2020 to 2026! This all-weather day out, with fun for all ages is simply unmissable.

The Milky Way Adventure Park is an all-weather family attraction packed with rides, live shows, indoor play, and hands-on fun. Located near Clovelly, just 25 minutes from Bude, it’s one of the top things to do with kids in the area.

Make sure you claim your saving! We’re passing 100% of the government’s summer VAT savings directly to you! From 25 June to 1 September 2026, our transparent online ticket prices automatically include your saving. All the fun of the park for less this summer… Book Now to secure your tickets!

Indoor and Outdoor Attractions for All Ages

With a brilliant mix of indoor and outdoor attractions, the park has something for everyone. Save planet Earth on Ziggy’s Blast Quest interactive ride, feel the rush on the Cosmic Typhoon rollercoaster, challenge the family on the accessible mini golf course, or enjoy a breathtaking birds of prey display. Younger children will love the soft play, bouncing pillows, and mini train, while teens can test their skills in the Ninja Stars arena.

All-Weather Family Fun near Bude

If you’re looking for things to do with kids or planning a family day out near Bude, The Milky Way is a top choice, even on rainy days – with rides, play areas, shows and activities for all ages, all in one place. The whole park has been designed for all ages to have fun together! Family-owned for over 40 years, it offers a relaxed, friendly, and great-value full day out and most guests are here around 5 hours on average.

Great Value Family Day Out – Rides, Shows & More Included

All rides, shows and most activities are included in your entry ticket, offering fantastic value for families. What’s included …

Tickets include all our rides, play areas and live shows, with just a few optional extras like pottery painting (priced per piece from £4 and up), Penalty Pro Football (£2 per game), and Ninja Stars (£2.95 wristband with credit included, and option to purchase further credits available at £1.50 per credit). Prices correct as at 1st July 2025.

Coasteering is an exhilarating mix of fun, thrills, and excitement. Upon arrival, the team at Shoreline will outfit you in wetsuits, buoyancy jackets, helmets, and a pair of old trainers before setting off to explore the rugged coastline of North Cornwall.

Whether you’re keen on swimming, diving, scrambling, or jumping, there are plenty of options to cater to everyone’s adrenaline levels. Their carefully selected location boasts sea caves, rocky outcrops to navigate, and ample opportunities for thrilling deep-water jumps.

But coasteering isn’t just for the adrenaline junkies. With jumps of various heights (all optional) and stunning underwater flora and fauna to admire, there’s something for everyone in this activity.

Rest assured, they only conduct sessions when sea and weather conditions are optimal. Their experienced instructor team, led by a qualified Beach Lifeguard Trainer and Mountain Instructor,ensures every session is conducted with safety and professionalism as top priorities.

Escape to the PIGSHED Sauna just a few minutes from Bude town centre for a restorative wellness experience designed to refresh the body and calm the mind. Set in the peaceful North Cornish countryside, this unique retreat combines soothing heat with invigorating cold-water therapy to help you feel energised, balanced, and renewed.

Enjoy the warmth of a traditional electric sauna, unwind in the hot tubs, and embrace the benefits of contrast therapy with two chilled baths set at 4°C and 12°C, plus a cold drench bucket for the ultimate revitalising reset.

Whether you’re recovering after an adventure, taking time out with friends, or simply looking to switch off, PIGSHED Sauna offers the perfect countryside escape for relaxation, recovery, and wellbeing.

Set out on an adventure at the Vale of Avalon where there’s something for every member of the family. From exciting den building and exploring Arthur’s stone to imaginative play in the wooden fort, children will be thoroughly entertained.

For those seeking a more tranquil experience, meander through the serene Muse Garden or enjoy a leisurely 500m stroll through the fields, orchard, and riverside trail, where you’ll discover the enchanting Lady Falmouth’s Secret Garden.

What You Can Explore & Experience:

Witness the historic Camlann Battlefield
Admire the 6th-century inscribed ‘Ogham’ Stone (also known as King Arthur’s Grave)
Dive into history at our Indoor Exhibition
Delight in the fragrant blooms of Lady Falmouth’s Secret Garden (18th century)
Relax in the picturesque ‘Muse Garden’
Explore the newly planted orchard
Discover the remains of a 13th-century longhouse
Observe wildlife thriving in its natural habitat
Wander the 500m woodland trail alongside the river
Let creativity flourish with den building using trees and twigs
Appreciate the newly planted flower beds
Enjoy family time in the dedicated children’s play area
Indulge in homemade tea & cake at the tearoom
Find a special memento in the charming gift shop

The Vale of Avalon is thrilled to inform you that they are a carbon-neutral, family-run small business dedicated to sustainability. On site is a liscensed Tea Room, free parking for both coaches and cars. Dogs are very welcome, no need to book ahead. Season tickets available for repeat visits.

Grade II listed and steeped in history, The Castle Bude, owned and operated by Bude-Stratton Town Council, offers a wealth of attractions to explore for free, rain or shine. Open daily from 10 am, The Castle features The Heritage Centre, Café Limelight, two galleries, and a gift shop. Immerse yourself in Bude’s rich history, enjoy the ever-changing exhibition programme, and unwind with friends over drinks, light lunches, or delectable cakes.

The spacious, dog-friendly decking area is open year-round and dry clean dogs on short leads are welcome inside. On Mondays a dog free day is observed inside and the Willoughby Gallery is a dog free zone at all times.  Plus, The Castle Bude is a licensed wedding and civil ceremony venue. The Heritage Centre is your gateway to discovering Bude and its surroundings, including the world-renowned geology and the town’s pivotal role in the English Civil War.

Bodmin’s iconic Keep stands as a testament to Cornwall’s military history, boasting over 160 years of heritage as the former regimental headquarters. Today, it has transformed into a captivating museum, chronicling 300 years of military presence in Cornwall.

Step inside to discover a treasure trove of artifacts, from badges and weapons to regimental colours, each offering a glimpse into the storied past of Cornwall’s military legacy. Delve into the lives of ordinary soldiers who lived through extraordinary times, as their stories unfold through immersive exhibits and displays.

A visit to Bodmin Keep is an opportunity to explore the rich tapestry of Cornwall’s military heritage, offering insight into the bravery, sacrifice, and resilience of those who served.

The museum boasts an extensive collection of over 12,000 items, the majority of which are proudly showcased for visitors to explore. Each artifact weaves a compelling narrative of battle and honours the courage and sacrifice of individual soldiers.

Among the treasures are numerous works of art that vividly depict tales of conflict, complemented by a remarkable display of over 80 uniforms spanning from Napoleonic times to the modern era. Visitors can also marvel at hundreds of medals bestowed upon brave individuals for their wartime heroism throughout history.

In addition to these remarkable artifacts, the collection includes a diverse array of sculptures, decorative art, and other fascinating memorabilia, offering a comprehensive journey through Cornwall’s military heritage. Immerse yourself in the stories of valour and resilience encapsulated within our museum’s unparalleled collection.

Dogs
Bodmin Keep welcomes furry friends to the museum as they are a dog-friendly attraction. Well-behaved dogs on a lead are warmly invited to accompany their owners during their visit. However, please note that entry for dogs is subject to discretion, particularly during busy periods. To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for both human and canine visitors, it’s recommend booking ahead.

Accessibility
The museum is spread across two floors, each accessed via a flight of stairs, unfortunately, wheelchair access is not available at this time. However, Bodmin Keep strive to ensure that all visitors can enjoy our exhibits comfortably. They provide seating in every gallery and stalls to stand on, allowing everyone to view items displayed in cabinets raised off the ground. The aim is to make your visit as inclusive and enjoyable as possible.