For the children

We have added a number of features recently to make a day out at Forde Abbey even more enjoyable for all ages. A Children’s Pack is available from the shop and also  at the house entrance. This is aimed at children aged 3 to 11 although younger children may need some help. It includes:

A Children’s Guide to the House 
Learn more about the house and the people who have lived here while finding the answers to a series of questions. Even our youngest visitors can be a house detective.

For the Youngest Visitors
This activity sheet for 3-5 year olds gives them things to find, pictures to colour and games to play.

Letterboxing at Forde Abbey
Follow the trail around the garden to find the hidden boxes and stamps to mark the trail map. Based on the famous Dartmoor letterboxes, there is a prize draw for completed trails at the end of the season. But please be kind to the next trail-finder and make sure you put the stamps back in the boxes.

Forde Abbey and the National Curriculum
Designed for parents, this information sheet helps you to use a visit to Forde Abbey to help your children with their education.

The informal layout of the gardens at Forde Abbey means there are lots of hidden places for children to explore. The wide lawns give plenty of opportunity for using up excess energy, and the pony, ducks, chickens, swans and fish are also able to entertain our visitors. Remember that we also welcome well-behaved dogs on a short lead.