FREE Summer Family Fun Day 2026 | Donkey Rides, Wildlife, Garden Games, Stalls, Food Trucks & More!
Schedule
Sun Jul 12 2026 at 11:00 am to 03:30 pm
UTC+01:00Location
The Monastery Manchester | Manchester, EN
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Looking for a family day out in Manchester this summer?Join us at The Monastery on Sunday, 12th July, 2026, from 11:00am – 3:30pm for a relaxed and joyful Summer Family Fun Day, celebrating 30 years of community, nature and shared moments at one of Manchester’s most extraordinary heritage sites.
This year’s event has a special garden party atmosphere, centred around two much-loved spaces: the Healing Garden, which has welcomed visitors for many years, and the Peace Garden, a beautiful new addition that is already blossoming into a beloved place for reflection, connection and community.
And because this is Manchester, we’re planning for sunshine and showers alike. There will be gazebos in the garden, as well as plenty of indoor activities inside the Monastery, so you can enjoy the day whatever the weather decides to do.
If you're searching for things to do in Manchester with kids, a relaxed family day out, or a welcoming community event where all generations can enjoy time together, the Monastery’s Summer Family Fun Day is a perfect choice.
Whether you're visiting for the animals, the music, the gardens or simply to enjoy time together in a beautiful setting, this is a lovely way to spend a summer afternoon with family and friends.
Or come alone and find your tribe - we're a very friendly bunch!
WHAT'S ON?
Enjoy a full afternoon of family-friendly activities, nature experiences and community fun.
Activities include:
· Donkey rides for children (limited availability £4 per ride – these always sell out quickly so early booking essential)
· Interactive animal handling experience (limited availability £8.50 each or save with a family ticket – pre-booking essential)
· Live performance from Gorton Voice Choir
· Plant sale – take a little of The Monastery gardens home with you
· Wildlife talks and nature activities
· Children’s drawing activities and bug hunt
· Peace Pebbles – paint and place your own stone in the Peace Garden
· Face painting
· Garden games in the Healing Garden
· Market stalls from local makers and community groups
· Food trucks, outdoor refreshments and the Welcome Wing Café
Stroll through the gardens, meet our green team and enjoy a relaxed afternoon celebrating nature, community and the Monastery’s 30th anniversary year.
Everyone is welcome!
SUMMER CHARITY RAFFLE
You can also take part in our Summer Charity Raffle, helping to raise funds for The Monastery Charitable Trust.
Prizes include:
· Luxury food and wine hamper
· £100 Tesco voucher
· Concert tickets
· Afternoon tea voucher
And many more prizes to be announced!
£1.50 per ticket
£5 discounted book of 5 tickets
The raffle draw will take place on Sunday 30th August, 2026, and winners will be contacted by email.
BOOKING INFO
Tap on the 'find tickets' tab to access booking links for;
FREE general admission tickets
Children’s donkey rides
Animal handling experience tickets – morning session
Animal handling experience tickets – afternoon session
Charity raffle tickets
PRACTICAL DETAILS
Event: Summer Family Fun Day
Location: The Monastery Manchester, 89 Gorton Lane, Manchester M12 5WF
Date: Sunday 12th July, 2026
Time: 11:00am – 3:30pm
General Entry is FREE!
Tap here to book your tickets: https://themonastery.co.uk/events/summer-family-fun-day-manchester-garden-party/
All proceeds support The Monastery Charitable Trust.
FAQs
Is this event suitable for young children?
Yes. The Summer Family Fun Day is designed for families with children of all ages, as well as mums, dads, grandparents, aunts, uncles and of course adults who prefer to fly solo!
*Please note, children must be accompanied by a responsible adult.
Do I need to book in advance?
You can purchase general admission tickets on the day if available, but donkey rides and animal handling experiences have limited capacity, so booking ahead is essential.
Where do I book the different activities?
All tickets - including entry tickets, donkey rides, animal handling and raffle tickets - can be selected within the same booking page.
Is the event outdoors?
Most activities take place in the Healing Garden and Peace Garden, although there will also be activities inside the Monastery building.
Do I need to bring anything?
Since this is Manchester, layered clothing might be a good plan!
Will food and drinks be available?
Yes. There will be food trucks, outdoor refreshments and the Welcome Wing Café open throughout the event.
Where is The Monastery Manchester?
The Monastery is located in Gorton, Manchester (M12 5WF) and is one of the city’s most remarkable historic buildings.
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Where is it happening?
The Monastery Manchester, 176 Gorton Lane, Manchester, M18 8, United KingdomEvent Location & Nearby Stays:
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