What Is Happening At Scampston Hall This September For Families And Garden Lovers?

As the leaves start to turn and that familiar crispness fills the air, it’s clear that autumn is just around the corner. For anyone wondering what to do with their weekends, Scampston has a calendar packed with events this September that cater for just about everyone. From green-fingered gardeners looking for new plants to curious history buffs and energetic families, there’s a whole host of activities planned. The estate is buzzing with things to see and do, including brand-new tours of the historic hall and some brilliant workshops to get the creative juices flowing. It’s the perfect excuse to get out and enjoy the glorious grounds before the cooler weather properly sets in.

A peek behind the velvet rope

For those who love a bit of history, Scampston Hall has something brand new for 2025. The Upstairs Downstairs Tours offer a fascinating glimpse into a world that’s long gone. It’s one thing to see the grand, elegant rooms where the family lived, but what about the hidden world of the staff who kept everything running? These tours take visitors through the fancy "upstairs" part of the hall before heading down into the atmospheric cellars and work areas "downstairs." It’s a real eye-opener, showing the massive contrast between the two lives lived under one roof.

These special tours of the hall are already proving popular, so booking in advance is definitely recommended to avoid disappointment. They run every Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday until 24th October, making for a perfect mid-week treat. The Upstairs Downstairs Tours are a must-do for anyone curious about the social history of grand country estates.

Let the kids run wild (in a good way)

After a brilliant first run, Nature Scamps is back! This is an outdoor education session designed for families with school-aged children (around 5-11 years old). Led by the fantastic Amber, who is a qualified teacher and Forest School Leader, these sessions are all about getting hands-on with nature. Think woodland crafts, cooking over a campfire, and lots of exploring. It's a great way for kids to burn off some energy while learning new skills in the great outdoors.

New for this September, children can also join the Wild Passport programme. It’s an accredited outdoor learning scheme that lets them build skills in everything from woodcraft and shelter building to making fires and identifying wildlife, progressing from beginner all the way to expert. These sessions run on Tuesdays and some Mondays during term time. A huge bonus is that the grounds are closed to the public on these days, giving the families taking part exclusive space to play, learn, and even have a picnic. It's a fantastic initiative for parents looking for fun, educational activities.

Get creative in the conservatory

If getting creative is more your thing, the Conservatory is hosting a series of inspiring workshops this month. It’s a chance to learn a new skill in a beautiful, light-filled setting. There’s a real variety on offer, so there should be something to spark anyone's interest.

The September workshops include:

• Cane Acorn Crafting: A chance to get stuck into a traditional craft and create something beautiful with your hands. It’s a mindful process that’s both relaxing and rewarding.
• Wet Felting: For anyone who loves textiles, this workshop is an opportunity to discover the rich textures and creative possibilities of felt-making.

These workshops are a wonderful way to spend a few hours learning something new and meeting like-minded people.

A few helpful pointers

Getting your hands on tickets for any of these events is straightforward. They can be booked online in advance or purchased on the day at the gate. For regular visitors, it's worth noting that Scampston and Historic House members get free entry to many events, while RHS members often benefit from discounted prices. Bringing some cash is always a good idea when attending fairs or markets on the estate.