The Watchers of Woodchester Mansion - Magical Family Adventure
A magical summer adventure awaits families at Woodchester Mansion
Families are invited to step into a world of imagination, mystery and discovery this August with The Watchers of Woodchester Mansion, a brand-new outdoor theatre experience created in collaboration with immersive theatre specialists Rusticus.
Running every Thursday throughout August, the experience brings storytelling, heritage and outdoor adventure together in the beautiful surroundings of Woodchester Mansion and the wider Woodchester Valley.
A family journey through story and landscape
The adventure begins in the grounds of Woodchester Mansion, where families meet a curious Professor and their mysterious Assistant. What starts as a guided walk soon becomes something far more magical, inspired by the extraordinary carvings hidden throughout the Mansion.
From gargoyles and beasts to watchful creatures carved into the stonework, the story asks visitors to imagine what might happen if these figures were more than decoration.
Guided by lively performers, families will journey through woodland and open spaces, meeting a series of memorable characters along the way, including a mischievous forest spirit, a newly emerged butterfly and a playful bat.
Play, create and discover
Along the route, children and families will enjoy a series of interactive activities designed to spark creativity, movement and imagination. These include shaping clay faces with the Green Man of Woodchester Mansion, exploring the mechanics of flight with a butterfly, playing echolocation games with a bat and discovering more about the Mansion’s fascinating past.
Each encounter builds towards a magical mystery at the heart of Woodchester Mansion, where families will uncover the ending to a story of protection, hidden guardians and a stone creature that may not be quite as still as it seems.
Explore Woodchester Mansion
After the theatrical walk, visitors can continue their day by exploring Woodchester Mansion at their own pace, visiting Henry’s Café for refreshments and enjoying the National Trust Woodchester Park play trail on the return journey.
The experience is designed as a full family day out, combining outdoor theatre, creativity, heritage, nature and relaxation in one of Gloucestershire’s most distinctive historic settings.
“The Watchers of Woodchester Mansion has been specially created to celebrate the unique character of Woodchester Mansion - an unfinished Gothic masterpiece full of mystery and wonder. By blending heritage with imagination, the experience encourages visitors to see the building in a new light, uncovering stories hidden within its stonework and surroundings.”
The Watchers of Woodchester Mansion runs on Thursday 6, 13, 20 and 27 August. Tickets cost £13 for adults and £7 per child, with under 3s free. Tickets include the interactive outdoor theatre experience and Mansion entry.
> Book Your Tickets to The Watchers of Woodchester Mansion
Explore Gloucestershire
30 June 2026
For further information.
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