Jump into summer with the National Trust in the South West as Summer of Play returns, supported by Pokémon

Families across the South West can look forward to a summer packed with adventures as Summer of Play returns to National Trust places, supported by Pokémon.

From Cornwall to Wiltshire and Devon to Dorset, children and their grown-ups can enjoy giant games, circus skills, storytelling, outdoor theatre, den building, creative activities and opportunities to connect with heritage and nature throughout the school holidays.

Alongside the Summer of Play programme of events, Pokémon fans can discover all-new Pokémon zones at Trelissick, Killerton, Kingston Lacy, Stourhead, Tyntesfield and Lacock Abbey. Families can get stuck into Pokémon Trading Card Game activities, take on Mega Evolution-inspired challenges and collect stickers along the way.

Meanwhile, Pokémon Trading Card Game Mega Evolution Trails continue at Saltram, Lanhydrock, Kingston Lacy and Dyrham Park. Team up as a family to search for eachMega Evolution Pokémon, discover their powers, and complete your own challenges. 

Pokémon GO players can also enjoy new National Trust Pokéstops and Gyms, Official Routes and themed in-game experiences designed to encourage families to explore the outdoors together.

Carl Greenman, the National Trust’s Programming and Production Manager, 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.” 

Across the South West, visitors can discover pirate adventures at Buckland Abbey, circus skills and giant games at Trelissick and Kingston Lacy, a very royal experience at Cotehele, a brand new play hub at Knightshayes, festival atmosphere at Stourhead, den building at Lacock, maritime adventures at Saltram and medieval fun at Corfe Castle.

Summer of Play runs throughout the school holidays and is included with normal admission. No booking is required and activities vary by place.

For details and opening times, visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/summer-of-play   

Summer of Play is supported by Pokémon.