FREE Summer Family Fun Day 2026
Event Details
FREE Summer Family Fun Day in Manchester Looking for a family day out in Manchester this summer? Join us at The
Event Details
FREE Summer Family Fun Day in Manchester
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.
Front of building
Donkey Rides – Along the Gorton Lane side of the building (half hour slots for single rides every 30 minutes from 11am – 3pm – ticketed event)
Children’s Funfair and Inflatables
Billy’s Ices (Ice Cream Van)
The Indian Food Carriage
Licence 2 Grill Food Van
Welcome Wing
Raffle Table
The Great Nave – Stall Holders
Arts & Crafts
The Little Treat Kitchen
Apex 3D
Lil Magick Shop
Keep It Bright
Pocket Money Toys
Face Painting
The Little Sweet Lady
Pam (Hook Healers)
Paint Pour Gifts
Handmade Bags
Badges
Gem Welsby
Red Cross
Pixie Felt
Bear Hugs and Wishes
Tombola for Wellchild Charity
Simon Hobday – Magician
Refectory (all day)
Quiet Room
Learning Space:
Animal Handling with Lyndsay Hunter (12pm – 1pm and 1.30pm – 2.30pm – ticketed event) *SOLD OUT*
Community Hub
Hour of Silence (12pm – 1pm)
The Monastery Peace Garden
Summer Garden Games
Entertainment in The Great Nave
12.30pm – 1.15pm : Katie O’Malley
1.30pm – 2.15pm : Gorton Voice Choir
2.30pm – 3.30pm : Stockport Ukelele Players
Entertainment in various spaces around the building
Morris Dancing
12.15pm – 12.30pm
1.15pm – 1.30pm
2.15pm – 2.30pm
Stroll through the gardens, meet our green team and enjoy a relaxed afternoon celebrating nature, community and the Monastery’s 30th anniversary year.
A Sanctuary of Silence
At the heart of the afternoon we will gather together for our customary Hour of Silence.
This quiet moment invites everyone to pause, reflect and share a sense of connection and gratitude.
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 Information
- Tap here to book FREE general admission tickets
- Tap here to book children’s donkey rides
- Tap here to book animal handling experience tickets – morning session – NOW SOLD OUT
- Tap here to book animal handling experience tickets – afternoon session – NOW SOLD OUT
- Tap here to buy charity raffle tickets
Practical Details
Event: Summer Family Fun Day
Location: The Monastery Manchester, Gorton Lane, Manchester M12 5WF
Date: Sunday 12th July, 2026
Time: 11:00am – 3:30pm
General Entry is FREE!
Tap here to book general entry tickets
All proceeds support The Monastery Charitable Trust.
Frequently Asked Questions
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 access free 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?
By tapping on the links listed in the Booking Information section above.
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.
Directions to the Monastery here.
*Please note, the attached image is representative only – an artist’s impression of what kind of atmosphere to expect on the day. For actual photos of the Monastery, please tap here.