Springhill is a beautiful 17th-century plantation home surrounded by vibrant gardens and tranquil parkland. If you are searching for the best things to do with kids in County Londonderry, this historic estate serves as an engaging outdoor and indoor heritage activity category where children can play, learn, and explore. Regarded as one of the prettiest houses in Ulster, the estate offers plenty of open space to burn off energy.

Standard entry prices start from £4.75 for children and £9.50 for adults, with under-fives entering completely free of charge. National Trust members can access the entire property without paying any admission fee.

If you are looking for the best place for a day out with family and kids, this site combines fascinating history with natural playgrounds. Children can enjoy a screen-free day out stepping back in time, discovering historic fashion, and hunting for local wildlife along waymarked woodland trails.

What features does Springhill offer for families?

• Sensory play in nature: Families can engage in active learning by searching for pine cones, spotting migratory birds, and listening to the local woodland wildlife.
• Balance bike rentals: Toddlers can explore the pathways easily with free balance bikes available to borrow during the summer months.
• Interactive indoor spaces: Children can read, play with toys, and relax in a dedicated indoor area while parents unwind.
• Waymarked family trails: Easily navigable routes wind through the trees, providing the perfect distance for little legs to stroll.

What are the top highlights at Springhill?

• The 17th-Century Plantation House: Explore the atmospheric rooms of this beautifully preserved family home. Children will love hearing stories of the ten generations of the Lenox-Conyngham family who lived here, alongside tales of the estate's very own friendly resident ghost, Olivia.
• The Historic Costume Collection: Housed inside the old laundry, this exhibition contains a vibrant collection of historic clothing spanning from the 18th to the 20th century. Children can look at the incredible garments, including a rare 1740s Court Mantua dress that was once worn to a royal ball.
• The Natural Play Area: This dedicated outdoor space lets kids run wild in a safe, woodland environment. Built using natural materials, it provides the perfect spot for climbing, balancing, and enjoying unstructured play in the fresh country air.
• The Beech Walk and Historic Tower: Follow the gentle pathway lined with massive beech trees up to a stone wind-powered corn mill built in 1731. Kids will love spotting the ancient 300-year-old original beech tree and exploring the historical ruins.
• The Walled Dutch Garden: This peaceful, colorful garden features sweet-smelling camomile, a classic herb garden, and a collection of rare historic roses. It is a brilliant space for a slow family wander or a quiet afternoon picnic.

Beyond the Main Attraction

If you want to make a full day of your trip, Wellbrook Beetling Mill is located just a 15-minute drive away. It is the last working water-powered linen beetling mill in Ireland, where families can join a hands-on guided tour to see giant wooden hammers in action and try out a traditional spinning wheel.