Joyous June at Pensthorpe
Celebrate a month of wildlife, discovery and summer joy this June at Pensthorpe. From pond dipping adventures and moth discoveries to gardening chats and flamingo fun, there’s something extra happening throughout the week to make your visit even more memorable.
Whether you’re exploring with little ones, enjoying a peaceful wander through the gardens, or discovering more about the incredible wildlife that calls Pensthorpe home, Joyous June is packed with moments to connect with nature.
Alongside these special seasonal activities, you can also enjoy everything that makes Pensthorpe such a loved day out – including our award-winning outdoor play, beautiful gardens, nature trails, café and incredible birdlife across the reserve.
Weekly Joyous June Activities
Mondays – Pond Dipping (12:30pm)
Get closer to the wonders beneath the water with our guided pond dipping sessions for both children and adults. Discover fascinating aquatic creatures and learn more about the hidden life thriving in our ponds.
? Pond Dipping
Tuesdays – A Journey Through Time (11:00am)
Step back in time with a fascinating historical talk exploring stories, memories and moments from years gone by.
? Viewing Gallery
Wednesdays – Ask the Gardener (2pm – 4pm)
Spend time in the Millennium Garden chatting with our gardening team. From seasonal planting tips to wildlife-friendly gardening advice, this is the perfect opportunity to ask questions and get inspired.
? Millennium Garden
Thursdays – Moth Trap Madness! (11am – 12pm)
Join the team to uncover the beautiful and unusual moths discovered in our moth traps. A brilliant chance to learn more about these often-overlooked nighttime pollinators and their important role in nature.
? Viewing Gallery
Fridays – Flamingo Frenzy (11am)
Discover the fascinating world of our flamingos during mating season. Learn more about their behaviours, nesting habits and flamboyant displays in this engaging flamingo talk.
? Flamingo Viewing Area
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