The Chronicle (UK)

FUN THAT’S TAILOR-MADE

Play can be noisy, social, and bursting with energy. It can also be quiet, curious and focused. Here are some top ways to play that are good for big and little kids...

Best for… indoor play

Celebrate the photograph­ic history of Ormesby Hall. Head to the dining room to dress up and take your photo in the studio.

Best for… testing your balance Tackle the low ropes challenge at Gibside and put your balance and strength to the test as you move from one tree to another.

Best for… budding chefs

Cook up a messy delight in the mud pie kitchen at East Riddlesden Hall.

Best for… imaginativ­e play

Climb aboard and pretend you’re driving the giant play train at Wallington. Take a journey, or take up the role of station master.

Best for… whizzing through the air Jump, swing and slide in the woodland adventure play area at Nostell. Feel the wind in your hair as you zoom between the trees on the 30-metre zip wire.

Best for… scaling new heights Climb the 76 steps to the top of Souter Lighthouse and you’ll find a huge powerful lamp and views out to the North Sea.

Best for… the older or more adventurou­s

At Beningbrou­gh enjoy the slides, clamber stacks, a cantilever swing and accessible swing seats.

Best for... mischievou­s minds

At Seaton

Delaval Hall,

find playful installati­ons in the gardens, like the Mirror Cube and Speaking Tube.

Best for… hide and seek

Lose yourself in the hedge maze; a living puzzle at Crook Hall Gardens.

Best for… flying a kite

In search of sea air and a spot of kite flying? Head to Lindisfarn­e Castle, where you can soar around the castle headland, spot seals and picnic.

HIGHLIGHT: Souter Lighthouse