Meet The Gruffalo at Pensthorpe?
Everyone’s favourite creature from the deep, dark wood, The Gruffalo, is joining us at Pensthorpe on Monday 4th May (May Bank Holiday)!
We cannot wait to welcome The Gruffalo to our beautiful nature reserve for a day packed with woodland adventure. Whether you’re introducing little ones to the story for the first time or already know all about his terrible tusks and terrible claws, this is set to be a magical family day out.
Join us for this special bank holiday event and don’t forget your cameras to capture some wonderful memories.
The Gruffalo will be appearing at intervals throughout the day, and we expect this event to be hugely popular — so please book early to avoid disappointment.
? Meet The Gruffalo
The Gruffalo will be making appearances at intervals between 11:00am – 3:00pm:
• 11:00am
• 12:00pm
• 1:00pm
• 2:00pm
• 3:00pm
Please note: This is a group experience. Individual interactions cannot be guaranteed due to the number of children, and this is not a personal meet & greet.
(Signage and staff will be available to help locate the appearance area.)
Your Ticket Includes a Full Day at Pensthorpe
Not only will you see The Gruffalo, but your admission also includes full access to:
• WildRootz outdoor adventure play
• Brand new for 2026 ‘Living Towers’ outdoor play
• Hootz House indoor play (pre-bookable sessions, see below)
• Hootz Hatch serving snacks and refreshments
• Our beautiful gardens and spring landscapes
Upcoming Events
The Pensthorpe Pumpkin Festival
From 23rd October to 1st November, join us for The Pensthorpe Pumpkin Festival – our biggest autumn celebration yet, bringing together pumpkins, family activities, picture-perfect autumn moments and a new spooky twist on our much-loved maize maze.
23/10/2026
10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Pumpkin Festival After Dark (Family Night)
The Pumpkin Festival is staying open after dark – and the whole family is invited! ?
Wrap up warm and join us for a special evening adventure as we light up the Pumpkin Festival, maize maze and outdoor play for a family night unlike anything else this October half term.
There’ll be pumpkins to choose and carve, a maze to brave, fire performers to watch and plenty of opportunities to play and explore after the sun goes down.
29/10/2026
5:45 pm – 9:30 pm
Pumpkin Festival After Dark (Adults Only Night)
For one night only, we’re opening The Pensthorpe Pumpkin Festival After Dark exclusively for grown-ups, giving you the chance to experience our autumn event after sunset.
Grab your partner, round up your friends and join us for an evening of pumpkins, fire, food and after-dark adventures.
30/10/2026
5:45 pm – 9:30 pm
