Trentham Gardens

Wander the beautifully landscaped gardens of the Trentham Estate and pick a quiet spot to enjoy a picnic with a view over the lake. During the summer, take advantage of the free traditional deckchairs and relax for the day.

Things to do at Trentham Estate – Trentham Gardens

Trentham Lake, designed by Capability Brown, has a circular path which is home to sculptures signposting the wildlife that can be found in the area. A kingfisher, frog, fox and a stag can all be found on route.

Trentham is also renowned for its whimsical wire fairy sculpture trail. They can be found dotted across the whole estate; find them hanging from wisteria or gently blowing in the breeze, clinging onto a dandelion clock. Pick up a map from the visitor’s centre; can you find them all on your visit? Be warned, it’s harder than it sounds as some are really quite good at hiding!

The Adventure Playground is packed full of natural equipment like the Altitude Tower, climbing wall, agility course, Viking Rope Swing, roundabout, swings and twin zip lines. Younger children can enjoy the nautical‑themed Toddler Zone, featuring a giant sand play area, adventure boats (including a wheelchair‑accessible one), mini diggers, quieter sand pits, willow dens, tunnels and toddler‑friendly swings and slides. Under‑5s can take the wheel in the Young Drivers Zone, steering easy‑to‑drive mini vehicles around gentle paths to build confidence and coordination. Families can also explore Trentham’s maze, where talking pipes, colourful meadows and a spiral climb to the Treasure Chest viewpoint add a fun, nature‑filled adventure to the day.

Alongside the play zones, families can take a relaxing trip on Miss Elizabeth, Trentham’s electrically powered boat, which glides across the lake and gives you beautiful views of the gardens from the water. It’s a calm, easy ride that adds something special to a day out. Popular with dog walkers, there are many other footpaths and routes to try out too. Trentham Estate is just as beautiful in the winter months, and with two cafés at either end of the lake it’s easy to warm yourself up again. Trentham Estate also hosts Summer Concerts by the lake in the natural amphitheatre and also hosts seasonal events such as a pumpkin trail.

Further Information

Is there food and drink available?

Totally Delicious at Lakeside Café and Italian Garden Tearooms Kiosk by the adventure playground serves Snugburys ice cream. You can picnic in the gardens. More eateries can be found just outside the entrance to the estate within the shopping village.

What are the main things to do?

Landscaped gardens with sculptures, including a wire fairy trail, adventure playground with a sandpit, ride-on tractor and more. Barefoot walk, disc golf, boat rides and a miniature train. There are toilets and places to eat.