Ten Special National Trust Days Out For Dads

It’s the one day of the year when dads across Britain get to call the shots. This Father’s Day, it’s time to give dad a special day out he will really love, be that walking in the great outdoors, delving into the pages of history or re-living his childhood on a camping trip in the wild.

For green-fingered dads, there are over 200 captivating gardens just waiting to be explored; for adventure-lovers there’s geocaching and wildlife trails to get the adrenalin pumping; and for dads who like to unearth the past, National Trust houses have centuries of history and intrigue bubbling at the surface.

Create special memories this Fathers’ Day on a top family day out with the National Trust:

Batemans by John Miller

Bateman’s, East Sussex – Rudyard Kipling and his Rolls-Royce
Home of the much-loved Rudyard Kipling, Bateman’s is kept much as Kipling left it – with his pen and inkwell awaiting new stories. Even his 1928 Rolls-Royce Phantom 1 is outside waiting – a firm favourite with dads. Kipling’s voice can be heard with some of his poems set to music playing on a phonograph. See the original illustrations of The Jungle Book and soak up the atmosphere in Kipling’s book-lined study. His strong association with the East is also very present in the house, with beautiful oriental rugs and artefacts scattered about. The children can play with toys one of the children’s bedroom.
Outside, take a stroll around the estate and try to spot some of the inspiration for Puck of Pook’s Hill, or take a virtual tour of the watermill. Don’t miss the Kipling family initials, carved into the porch one rainy afternoon.
Father’s Day tea, 16 June, 2.30pm-4.30pm
If you imagine an afternoon tea at Bateman’s is just dainty cakes and pastries then you and your dad are in for a surprise. Instead there is a hot mini Yorkshire pudding with gravy, a posh fish finger roll, home made mini pasty, served with a rustic sandwich and the ever popular Bateman’s classic cream tea washed down with a good strong cup of tea.
£12.50. Booking is essential, please call 01435 882302

Brownsea Island, Dorset – red squirrels, smugglers’ tales and wild camping
Take dad on the ferry across to this adventure island in Poole Harbour, famous for being an unspoilt, natural haven with a colourful history. Brownsea was the perfect haunt for smugglers, who used to hide their booty of silks and spices in the castle here. From towering trees and shell shores, to the smugglers’ tales and scenes right out of Enid Blyton’s Famous Five novels (the 1970s tv series was filmed here too), the whole family will feel like they are on quest of discovery. The island is one of the last places to see red squirrels as well as many different kinds of seabirds. At the visitor centre, hear how the island was used as a decoy during the Second World War to protect the nearby towns of Poole and Bournemouth from bombing. There are lots of walks and the island is car free so every inch of it can be explored.
Family camping: An extra-special treat for Father’s Day weekend is the rare opportunity for families to spend an adventurous night on Brownsea Island, with its thriving wildlife and rich history. Master the art of camping and enjoy outdoor activities and, in the evening, there will be a tasty BBQ and sing song around the campfire. For prices and to book, please call 01202 492161.
Or if you don’t fancy a night under canvas there’s always Agents House, a waterside terraced holiday cottage that lies just three metres from the sea with its own private garden. Sleeps six.

Chirk Castle, Wrexham – dungeons, archery and gruesome tales
Completed in 1310, Chirk is the last Welsh castle from the reign of Edward I that’s still lived in today. This Welsh medieval fortress, complete with dungeons and murder holes, has all the ingredients for a great Father’ Day. Meet Will the Archer, the castle’s medieval bowman, and be trained to help guard the fortress. Or try on armour and take part in pike drill – but be careful not to be put in the stocks. Don’t miss the medieval toilets or a visit to the family activity room with games and costumes.
Take a tour through the Myddelton family home and be sure to visit the east wing, where you can relax in the comfy armchairs beside the fire, flick through family photo albums, sign the guest book and hunt for famous signatures, have a game of chess at the dining room table and play with the toy theatre. Outside, enjoy beautiful views over the Cheshire and Salop plains, visit the bird hide and try out bird calls, go den building and bug hunting, explore the estate by bike and hunt for geocaches.
Tudor life, 15-16 June 11am-4pm
Discover everyday life from 400 years ago: try on Tudor fashions, smell food cooking in the servants’ hall and learn more about the gruesome cures for common diseases. Normal admission charges apply. Booking not required. For more information please call 01691 777701.
Make a weekend of it: Stay a few hundred metres from the Castle in Chirk Home Farm Cottage, a traditional stone cottage that sleeps four or in a 1930’s villa at the top of Offa’s Dyke, with views that are second to none (sleeps five).

Gibside, Tyne & Wear – wildlife discovery and family cycling
With red kites whirling over the treetops, the conservation scheme at Gibside feels a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of the Tyne quayside. The cycling route through the landscaped ‘forest’ garden, wildlife hide and stables discovery room is dotted with great picnic spots and spectacular vistas where cyclists can refuel before freewheeling the eight miles back down the Derwent walk to Newcastle. An exhilarating and refreshing day for all the family on Father’s Day.
Music in the chapel, 16 June, 2pm-3pm
Enjoy the fantastic acoustics of Gibside chapel with live music from local performers and choirs inspired by a seasonal theme.
Normal admission charges apply.
Booking not required. For more information please call 01207 541820

Lyme ©NTPLStephen Robson

Lyme Park, Cheshire – a giant playscape, bulbs and local beer
On the edge of the Peak District, nestling within sweeping moorland, Lyme Park is a beautiful estate. Its wild remoteness and powerful beauty contrast with one of the most famous country house images in England – the backdrop to where Darcy meets Elizabeth in the BBC’s production of Pride and Prejudice. Discover a colourful family history, from rescuing the Black Prince and sailing into exile with the Duke of Windsor to the writing of the hit series Upstairs Downstairs. New for 2013 is the ‘End of a Golden Era’ project, telling the story of the Edwardians who lived and worked at Lyme.
After exploring the beautifully furnished rooms and impressive tapestries, escape to the park and feel miles away from anywhere. Take a family walk across the magnificent moorland, fly a kite or wonder at The Cage – a remarkable, medieval hunting lodge set high up on the moor. Head over to Crow Wood playscape for a big adventure – a land of giant treehouses and slides, timber walkways and tree trunks to climb.
Make your Father’s Day card, 15 June, 1pm-3pm
Make dad an extra-special card for Father’s Day.
Normal admission charges apply.
Booking is not required. For more information please call 01663 762023.
Beer and bulbs, 15-16 June, 11am-4pm
Especially for Father’s Day weekend, Dad can also enjoy selecting from thousands of bulbs from Lyme’s gardens that will be on sale. Afterwards, take him to tastings of locally brewed beer – another perfect treat.
Vehicle charges apply. Booking not required. For more information please call 01663 762023.

Mount Stewart House, Garden and Temple of the Winds, County Down -cartoons of politicians and duck-billed platypuses
Mount Stewart is one of the most unique and unusual gardens in the National Trust’s ownership, and is laid out in a series of different garden ‘rooms’. There is something new around every corner and the house tells stories of the politicians who visited the Londonderry family. Lady Londonderry made all the visiting politicians members of her elite ‘arc club’, and the animal pictures of them can still be seen in the tea room – Winston Churchill was ‘Winnie the warlock’.
Enjoy breathtaking views over Strangford Lough and discover dinosaurs in the garden and a horse with a monkey on its back. Find ‘Mairi Mairi quite contrary’ sitting in the middle of a pond with her cockle shells, creep down the underground tunnel by the Temple of the Winds and find crocodiles and duck-billed platypuses jostling on the dodo terrace.
Father’s Day boat trip, 16 June, 1pm-3pm & 3pm – 5pm
A treat for all of the family on Father’s Day on a scenic voyage on Strangford Lough to view the seals, seabirds and other wildlife, which can be found making this internationally-important wildlife reserve their home.
Adult £13, child £6.
Booking is essential, please call 028 4278 8387.

Oxburgh Hall, Norfolk – boys and their toys
Dads will love this 15th-century, moated manor house – with its priest’s hole, rooms where Henry VII and Elizabeth stayed during their visit and a striking Tudor gatehouse. From the roof there’s a fantastic view over the surrounding countryside, where you can walk for miles on one of the many trails. Spot the wildlife woodcarvings on the woodland trails and keep the kids entertained with some of the ’50 things to do before you’re 11 ¾’ activities, including hunting for bugs.
Boys and their toys, 15-16 June, 11am – 5pm
Join Oxburgh for Father’s Day weekend for this popular event, with displays by various model clubs. Bittern Amateur Radio Club will be broadcasting from Oxburgh Hall.
Normal admission charges apply. Booking is not required for this event.
For more information, please call 01366 328 243.

Sudbury Hall and the National Trust Museum of Childhood, Derbyshire – sports day and childhood memories
There’s something for everyone at Sudbury, either in the 17th-century hall or the Museum of Childhood, which is a delight for all ages, especially dads on Father’s weekend. The hall interiors are exquisite, with fine, decorative plasterwork, wood carvings and beautifully painted murals. In the unique museum, dads can get lost in themed galleries covering everything from outdoor adventure to stories and imagination, complete with interactive displays and even bedrooms on the ceiling. Children can dress up in the story gallery, pretend to be pupils in the Victorian schoolroom, or chimney sweeps (the adventurous can even climb up inside the chimney).
Sudbury sports day, 16 June, 11am-4pm
Come and try some of our old fashioned games out in the stable yard. Reminisce, unleash your inner child or try your hand at some of the weird and wonderful games from yesteryear
This is a free outdoor event held in the stable yard.
Booking not required. For more information please call 01283 585337

Tyntesfield, North Somerset – geocaching and going batty
Tyntesfield’s house, chapel, gardens and woodland make for an inspiring day of fresh air and discovery. Ideal for an adventure on Father’s Day, the Victorian estate has an exhilarating geocaching trail, with six boxes located in the woodland. The caches are themed around the wildlife, habitats and history of the area and include key facts about how the Trust is caring for the woodland and its wildlife. Each treasure box also contains an interactive family-friendly activity.
For wildlife lovers, the colony of lesser horseshoe bats that summer-roost in the roofs above the billiard room and servants hall is sure to delight. The colony consists of around 70 bats, many of which hibernate nearby in a tunnel near the wood-yard or occasionally under the chapel and in the cellars of the chaplain’s house. Bat-loving dads can see them via a new bat camera on site.
Father’s Day weekend, 15-16 June 10am-4pm
An array of classic cars are descending on the Tyntesfield estate. Wander around and find your favourite and maybe even get a picture of dad behind the wheel.
Normal garden admission applies.
Booking not required. For more information please call 01275 461 900.
Make a weekend of it: Perfect for large family groups rent Chaplain’s House and Lodge together and you’ll have enough beds for 11. Situated in the heart of the Tyntesfield estate you’ll get the gardens and woodlands all to yourself once the estate has closed to the public.

The Vyne - Hidden Realm, children in and on tunnel, credit Martin Parsons

The Vyne, Hampshire – the inspiration for Lord of the Rings?
Originally built as a great Tudor ‘power house’, The Vyne was visited by King Henry VIII on a few occasions and later became a family home, cherished by the Chute family for more than 350 years. The house is filled with an eclectic mix of fine furniture, portraits, textiles and sculpture.
Perhaps the most interesting object in The Vyne’s possession is a gold Roman ring, probably 4th-century, said to have inspired J.R.R. Tolkien. Discovered in the 18th-century, the ten-sided band has a Latin inscription engraved on it, which reads: ‘O Senicianus, may you live prosperously’, and the image of a fearsome looking head, which has been identified as that of the Goddess of Venus. Several decades after the ring was found, a Roman lead tablet was excavated at a temple in Gloucestershire. It bore an inscription referring to this very ring, and cursing ‘Senicianus’, who had stolen it. It is highly likely that the story of this ring and its curse was introduced to Tolkien, who had been advising on excavated finds at the temple. Many believe this ring to have been the inspiration for his Lord of the Rings trilogy – a perfect Father’s Day mystery for fans of the books and films. The ring and its inscription can now be clearly viewed through a new magnified display unit, where visitors can find out more about its fascinating story

50 Things To Do Before You’re 11 and Three Quarters

50 things National Trust logo

Today the National Trust are relaunching their ’50 Things To Do Before You’re 11 and Three Quarters’ campaign that we were first aware of last year. I think we got the booklet in The Guardian, and saw loads around properties we visited – in essence, and based on the Natural Childhood campaign, children aren’t getting outside as much as they used to – and while sometimes it’s unavoidable, there’s plenty out there to discover, and why not try some fun activities while you’re at it?

The National Trust ’50 Things’ website is here where you can sign up and log what you do – there’s a children’s and parents area. As H can’t read yet we’ll be working on this together but there’s plenty of fun things to do in there – and plenty of local suggestions of places based on your postcode (that’s the most personal information they take).

I’m going to make sure I stand back a bit more and LET H be a child. I guess having the fears about her front tooth and her being accident prone mean I do feel quite protective, so this is as much about me letting go!

I’ve already set us a challenge to visit new National Trust places (as we have so many), or places we’ve not been to in a long time and we now have an ‘Adventure Scrapbook’ for us to log the things H will do as well as giving us good suggestions.

If you’re based around the south east then there’s quite a lot you can do in local National Trust properties – the Surrey Hills being one place which covers a lot (and it’s good to see the Polesden Lacey geocache getting a star as being the best thing to do there – we had tons of fun last summer doing it).

National Trust 50 Things Adventure Scrapbook

So, you might now be wondering what they suggest? It’s obvious stuff, the things we probably did as kids. It’s time to unwrap the cotton wool…. The tasks aren’t difficult, in fact they’re probably things you’ve already done. The pressure is off, you can do it. I can do it too. Fifty things, and all the time in the world to do them – but ultimately, it’s about getting outside. If you’re really good and do all 50 then you can apply to the National Trust for a special badge.

We were also sent a delicious recipe. Mud pie; and no, we’re not talking the mississippi kind I’m afraid. Yes, you are going to get dirty. You know what though – a decent scrubbing brush only costs a pound.

Here’s what you do…

You need –

mud, soil or compost
water
leaves, flowers, sticks, shells and rocks for decoration

You will also need –

A mixing bowl
stick for mixing

Grab some handfuls of soil, mud or compost and put them into the bowl. Add water and give it a stir with the mixing stick. If the mixture is dry and crumbly add more water and stir again. Keep adding water until it’s a bit sticky. If it’s too sloppy, add more mixture to it.

Turn the bowl over onto the floor (obviously do this outside or in a tuff spot!) and pat the bottom until the mud pie falls out. Shape with your hands and decorate with the materials of choice.

Voila!

We’ve not made ours yet. I’m still in the process of convincing Shaun we need a tuff spot for play like this… but when we do I shall embrace the mud and the muck and get on with it. That’s how it should be, right?

The National Trust have made a video :

The best thing – this isn’t limited to just National Trust places. They want you to get outdoors – so enjoy your local parks, woods and so on. You don’t have to pay to go outside to an interesting park – check out Poppy Cat’s recent partnership with The Woodland Trust which has links for loads of local places for free. Banstead Woods near us has some great huts people have made which have always been fun to hide in (and pretend you’re a gruffalo).

Banstead Woods

Because I like lists, here’s the ones we’ve done so far of the 50…

roll down a really big hill
skim a stone
run around in the rain (needs a bit more work though)
play conkers
play in the snow
jump over waves
visit a farm
climb a huge hill
plant it, grow it, eat it
find a geocache

so that’s a start. Are you in? I’m roping in friends who are members as well as the Caterpillar Tales family who love this too!


50 things National Trust

We have been sent an Adventure Scrapbook and some stickers, plus a membership card for this project (we are already members so have passed this on to friends to join in with it) – all opinions are our own.

Some London and Surrey National Trust Places to Get To Before I’m 43 and 3/4

Last year the National Trust had their 50 Things To Do When You’re 11 and three-quarters campaign which encouraged children to enjoy being outdoors – based on the Natural Childhood Report which found that these days we don’t get out as much as children used to – we’re in the age of digital, so there’s tv, iPad games and so on – and we’re guilty as much as the next person – although do get out when the weather isn’t too bad (maybe that’s the problem too – maybe we need to get ourselves kitted out in the kind of clothing so it doesn’t matter?).

I remember growing up in the seventies how we’d get into the car and drive for trips all over Yorkshire and Lancashire (I still have nightmares about the drains in the Ladybower Reservoir), trips to caves and more. It was great and a big part of who I am and what I want H to experience now she’s got her memories and remembers things so much more than when she was smaller.

National Trust Hatchlands Park

Now H is a good age (she’ll be 4 in August) I know I can let her take risks – bearing in mind she wears glasses and is set to have a tooth extracted due to bumping it I probably do try to protect her more than I should – and slowly we are letting go, and letting her have more freedom – and add to that we do tend to hibernate in winter too (unless there’s some unnaturally good weather!).

We do get out and about to local National Trust places – we’re lucky that Morden Hall Park is a short bus ride away, and to drive we’ve Ham House & Gardens, Clandon Park, Claremont Landscape Gardens, Hatchlands Park, Polesden Lacey and a few more places well within half an hour to 45 minutes – but Shaun keeps telling me off. We love Polesden Lacey, though it has become our place we’ll go (as if you couldn’t guess) – so I’ve set myself a little challenge – as well as giving H more freedom, I’m going to make sure we go to other National Trust places, and I’ve got until next January to do it.

National Trust Scotney Castle

Granted, it’s easy really – locally there’s a lot of choice – but I want to head out a bit further too, get to places we haven’t (like Bodiam Castle) and maybe revisit some we’ve not been to for a couple of years (hello Scotney Castle) as well as places we’ve never got to and should have (hi Winkworth Arboretum). So this is the challenge – while we’ll go back to our ‘usual’ places, we’re going to go further. Not every month, but as often as we can.

So where would you recommend that’s near London?

National Trust Ham House and Gardens

In addition to this, the new Gardeners World magazine has a pass which offers 2 for 1 on gardens around the country, which includes Painshill Park (hurrah!!) so we’ll visit more of these too. Where is good? Tell us in the comments!

Polesden Lacey and the Royal Family

Polesden Lacey royal honeymoon

In 1923 the Duke and Duchess of York, later King George VI and the Queen Mother, spent part of their honeymoon at Polesden Lacey. Celebrate their 90th anniversary by following in their footsteps around the grounds – from Friday 26 April to Monday 6 May, you might stumble across delightful life-size photos of the royal couple relaxing in the gardens! There will also be special exhibits in the house, including copies of some never before seen photos of the royal couple from the Queen’s private collections.

On Saturday 4 May, you can also enjoy a special outdoor screening of the award winning film The King’s Speech. Tickets are £12 each (over 15s only). Please book in advance on 01372 414944 or via WeGotTickets.

Kings Speech Polesden

For more information about Polesden including opening times and upcoming events please call 01372 452048 or see www.nationaltrust.org.uk/polesdenlacey

Bluebells!

Bluebells at Hatchlands Park National Trust

It’s that time of year when they start to spring up, all around various woods and places. I know little about bluebells but what I do know is they’re pretty, especially in a good wood. As luck would have it, I have a handy guide to some good bluebell woods from the National Trust – though no mention of the fabulous Hatchlands Park which is famous for their wood (and where we almost always end up – if you’re nearby then definitely go!) – the bluebells go on for ever, and it’s a good long walk there and back too (which can take even longer if your child goes on strike and refuses to walk like H did last year). But still, bluebells! Pretty! They say the best time to catch them is around now, and particularly in May, so why not try one of the following?

“Make no mistake, spring is going to happen and it may be all the better for the wait” Matthew Oates, naturalist for the National Trust

Following the coldest March for 50 years, spring may still be someway off, with bluebell flowering predicted to be 3-4 weeks away and peak flowering possibly delayed until mid May or later.

However, when the warmer months do arrive, brighten up your day by dropping in to see the bluebells across many National Trust places.

Get the family together and discover the delights of these delicate flowers that transform Britain’s wonderful woodlands.
Here’s a selection of the top National Trust places and events that are perfect to enjoy bluebells in all their glory:

Ashridge Estate, Buckinghamshire
“I once watched the sun set through the bluebells at Ashridge; it was unforgettable and remains forever in my memory” –Lawrence Trowbridge, lead ranger

Enjoy carpets of bluebells this spring in this vast wooded landscape, filled with breathtaking scenery, amazing wildlife and a fascinating history.

Bluebell walk, 8 May, 7pm-9pm

Join a ranger-led walk at dusk and enjoy the best of Ashridge’s bluebells this year with all of the family.

Ticket charge £7 per adult and £5 per child.

Please park at the visitor centre.
Booking is essential, please call 01442 851227.

Bluebells at Hatchlands Park National Trust

Blickling Estate, Norfolk
“Bluebells are so special to me and those who visit Blickling as they give a great understanding of the history of the woodland and a sense of spiritual connection to the whole estate”-Dave Brady, head ranger

Visit Blickling in April through to May and discover one of the best places to see bluebells in the country. Follow the winding paths through the great wood, and pass through swathes of dainty English bluebells.

Make a weekend of it:   There are seven holiday cottages on the estate, including the magnificent ‘Tower’ converted from the second Earl of Buckinghamshire’s race stand. The ‘Tower’ sleeps four.

Chirk Castle, Wrexham
Immerse yourself in a medieval world at this impressive castle, then escape to the gardens and woodland and find Berkshire pigs, ancient trees and wonderful bluebell woods during the spring months.

Spring flowers garden walk15 May, 7pm-8pm
Join head gardener David Lock for a gentle stroll around the castle’s award-winning garden. Discover the amazing variety of spring-flowering trees, shrubs and plants, and how they grow and care for them.
All tickets £7.
Booking is essential, please call 01691 777701

Make a weekend of it:  Take your pick from two cottages situated within the castle grounds. There’s the House by the Dyke, a 1930’s villa, sleeping five located at the top of Offa’s Dyke, or, Chirk Home Farm Cottage, a traditional stone cottage that sleeps four and is a few hundred metres from the castle.

Clumber Park, Nottinghamshire
“For me the word ‘bluebell’ signals that spring is underway with a shimmering blue carpet overhung with fresh green foliage. At Clumber, they usually look perfect for St. George’s Day”-Christopher Margrave, head gardener

With 1,537 hectares of parkland, gardens, peaceful woodlands and a magnificent lake, there is plenty of space to explore and relax at Clumber, including the bluebell woodlands throughout the spring months.

Blue is the colour, 9 May, 1.30pm-3.30pm

Join Clumber for a gentle walk to discover a few of the bluebell woodlands that are around the estate.

All tickets £4.20.

Booking is advisable, please call 01909 476592.

Downhill Demesne and Hezlett House, County Londonderry
The striking 18th century mansion at Downhill now lies in ruin, but the offering of beautiful gardens and stunning cliff top walks makes this is a fantastic place for all the family to visit – especially during bluebell season.

Bluebell walk, 4-6 May, 2pm-4pm

Go along for an afternoon stroll around the Bishop’s Gate gardens and see the bluebells in full bloom at Downhill. The estate warden will highlight the hidden gems.

Normal admission charges apply.

Booking is not required. For more information, please call 02870 848728.

Hardcastle Crags, West Yorkshire
“Bluebells are the undisputed spring highlight at Hardcastle. At their peak, they form an almost unearthly blue haze through the woodlands and fill air with their sweet perfume. It’s my favourite time of the year, bursting with life”- Nabil Abbas, countryside manager

This wooded landscape is often known as ‘Little Switzerland’ because of the valley sides, pathways and river flowing through. In spring, the woodland is awash with carpets of bluebells.

Wildflower folklore walk, 12 May, 10am-1pm       

Learn about the ecology and folklore of the eye-catching local flora. Find out how forebears used bluebells, learn to tell your ramsons from your woodruff and discover how to protect yourself from evil sprits on this slow-paced walk of 2-3 miles.

No additional charges.

Booking is not required. For more information, please call 01422 844518.

Make a weekend of it:  Stay at the converted barn which overlooks the wooded valley that comes complete with original cow stalls or the Victorian Lodge at the pillared entrance. Both cottages sleep four.

Lanhydrock, Cornwall
This fascinating country estate has gorgeous gardens, including a brilliant collection of spring-flowering magnolias and woodland areas blooming with waves of daffodils and bluebells.          

Bluebells at their best, 4 May, 10am-12pm

Join the head ranger for a stroll through the bluebell woods, followed by lunch in the restaurant.

All tickets £15 (50p booking fee for cards).

Booking is essential, please call 01208 265950.

Make a weekend of it:  Stay in the only cottage on the estate, a 1920s villa-style cottage with stunning views over Lanhydrock’s historic parkland. Sleeps six.

Bluebells at Hatchlands Park National Trust

Nymans, West Sussex
Inspired by the setting and the soil, the Messel family created one of the country’s great gardens in the late 19th-century. The garden and nearby woods are perfect for walking, picnicking and spotting bluebells.

Woodland walks: bluebells & wild flowers, 27 April-3 May, 11am-12:30pm    

Join the woods team for a walk through Nymans woodlands, taking in the splendid displays of bluebells and other spring wild flowers.

Normal admission charges apply.

Booking is essential, please call 01444 405250.

Make a weekend of it: Stay at Woodlands Cottage, previously home to the estate game keeper, with walks and lakes on your doorstep. Sleeps four.

Sissinghurst Castle, Kent
A ruin of an Elizabethan manor house, Sissinghurst Castle and estate is a great place to see bluebells and wildflowers of the season.

Bluebell and wildflower walk, 26-28 April and 3-5 May, 2pm-4pm        

Join Sissinghurst for a four mile walk with a ranger, discovering the wildflowers and bluebells on the estate. After, enjoy a cream tea in the restaurant.

£12.50 per person (including cream tea).

Booking is essential, please call 01580 710700.

Make a weekend of it:  Sleeping six Priest’s House is a beautiful detached brick building which is believed to be the former Elizabethan garden banqueting house and is an absolute must-stay for garden lovers.

Speke Hall, Garden and Estate, Liverpool
“One of my favourite experiences in spring is walking through a carpet of bluebells. From the amazing blue flowers dancing in the breeze filling the air with heady scent, to the buzz of bees feeding on the nectar inside, it’s a magical scene at Speke Hall and one that always remains forever in my memory” –Ian Ford, estate warden

A perfect oasis of peace and quiet within easy reach of Liverpool, Speke Hall provides stunning views of the surrounding area and wonderful woodland walks through carpets of bluebells.

Stourhead, Wiltshire
‘A living work of art’ is how a magazine described Stourhead when it first opened in the 1740s. The garden and house are at the heart of a 1,072-hectare estate, where ancient woods are a perfect place to spot the glorious bluebells flowering in spring.

Bluebell walk, 12 May 10.30am–12.30pm

Join the head ranger at Stourhead to experience wonderful bluebell displays on a woodland walk and discover how the estate looks after the woods and wildlife.

Ticket charge £10 per adult and £5 per child.

Booking is essential, please call 0844 249 1895.

Make a weekend of it:  Set at the entrance to Stourhead 89 Church Lawn is the perfect country cottage, especially as guests can enjoy bracing walks around the ornamental lake before the crowds. Sleeps seven.

To find out more about National Trust holiday cottages visit www.nationaltrustcottages.co.uk or call 0844 8002070 and get planning a truly memorable holiday.

It’s a National Trust Free Weekend This Weekend!

National Trust Scotney Castle - photo by Jo Brooks

We love our National Trust membership, and easily make our money’s worth on it in a year – are you one of those people who just aren’t quite sure, and wouldn’t mind trying a couple of places out? Fear not – there’s a free weekend this weekend – providing a family saving of around £30.

They’re opening the doors to more than 200 of their gardens and houses for free – on the 20th and 21st April. Also, what better excuse to get out of the house – the forecast around here is good and all being well we’ll be going somewhere.

Whether it’s building a den in the woods at Gibside or discovering rare breeds of farm animals at Wimpole Estate, the National Trust has lots of activities offering a variety of family fun.

To plan your free weekend visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/freeweekend and download a free voucher today for the place of your choice.

National Trust Nymans - Photo by Jo Brooks

There will be a number of excluded places, which will be detailed at www.nationaltrust.org.uk/freeweekend.  To enter a property all you need to do is show your free weekend voucher, which can be downloaded from the website.

Polesden Lacey Gold Room Chandelier Cleaning

Polesden Lacey Gold Room by Eddie Hyde

If you’re planning on visiting Polesden Lacey, the National Trust property and gardens in Surrey next week then you’re in for a treat – the house team are going to be cleaning the Gold Room chandelier. It dates back to around 1860 and is highly decorative, made of around 4,000 pieces of cut glass, and adding to the wow factor of the room!

The cleaning of the main chandelier and matching wall sconces will happen mainly in the mornings from Monday 15th to Friday 19th April, where staff will be happy to answer questions about their work.

For more information about Polesden including opening times and upcoming events please call 01372 452048 or see www.nationaltrust.org.uk/polesdenlacey

The Mad Hatter’s Tea Party Trail at Polesden Lacey

We’re barely past Easter and already the excellent Polesden Lacey have another trail for kids, running through the holidays.

Almost 3,500 kids went to Polesden to take part in the Cadbury’s Easter Egg Trail (wow.. just think of all those eggs!), and to enjoy all the other activities on offer. The fun keeps on coming with the Mad Hatter’s Tea Party trail running from 10am until 3.30pm daily until Sunday 14th April.

For only £1 (plus grounds admission), you can help the Mad Hatter find his cakes and party hats, enjoy your own special tea party and of course win a prize.

For more information about Polesden including opening times and upcoming events please call 01372 452048 or see www.nationaltrust.org.uk/polesdenlacey

Polesden Lacey tree tunnel

Easter at Polesden Lacey

Polesden Lacey Easter Egg Explorers

We love our National Trust membership – I’ll say this a bazillion times as we get so much from it, especially having Polesden Lacey so close (which often makes the Top 10 overall of NT properties and gardens). Last year we went to Claremont for their Easter Egg hunt, but this year we switched.

Polesden photo area

The National Trust work with Cadburys and do simple trails that two three year olds (and a five year old) get excited about – it’s perfect! They get a sheet with various activities (though it was really too cold), a place to have your photo taken and then the actual trail. It probably took no more than an hour (allowing for a stop in the play area which is conveniently after the second or third clue), and had our three (H, her cousin G and her friend M) running around tracking down each clue.

Polesden Lacey Explorers

My favourite part of Polesden is the tree tunnel (which I’m sure they have a better name for, but we like ours) which had several clues, and leads out to the large grassy area at the front, where the kids had several games of hide and seek, or just rolling down the hill, climbing trees, or sitting on a lion; a stone one that is.

Polesden Lacey tree tunnel

Actually, there was only one gripe – it was a freezing day, and included in the price was face painting. The queue was long and wasn’t moving – so in the end we had to give up, which made the girls sad. On the plus side there’s the free binoculars as you come through the entrance so they could do proper exploring while looking for the clues, so that was fun for them.

Polesden Lacey climbing trees

The Cadburys/National Trust Easter Egg trails have just one more day – today is the last day (Easter Monday) – and there’s loads of trails around the country. Of course, when you finish you get to choose a Cadbury’s Easter Egg at the end, which pleased the three of them a LOT! An excellent day, and it’s all fresh air!

Polesden Lacey Easter Egg trail 2013

A National Trust and Cadbury’s Easter Event? Yes please!

It’s back! The National Trust and Cadbury Easter Egg Trails will be running from the 29th March to 1st April 2013 – head over to www.eastereggtrail.com to find out more. There are events on at 246 National Trust places, so there’s plenty of choice. 2013 also has some new events – an Easter Monday egg and spoon race happeening at over 120 National Trust properties – so check the link for more!

An Easter Egg Trail day at Charlecote Park, Warwickshire

Here’s a selection of the National Trust’s best events over the Easter fortnight:

Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden, North Yorkshire
School holiday fun – golden egg hunt, 29 March – 14 April, 11am-4pm
Shhhhhh. There’s a tiny golden egg hidden somewhere on the estate and it’s your job to track it down. However, you must keep its location a secret. Team up with family and friends for this challenging treasure hunt. Tell staff where you saw it and we’ll enter you into a prize draw to win an eggstremely eggsellent prize.

Normal admission charges apply.
Cadbury Easter Egg Trail, 31 March – 1 April, 11am-4pm
Take part in an egg hunt at Fountains this Easter, have your face painted, join in with games and collect a chocolate ‘Egghead’ at the end.
Normal admission charges apply, ticket charge £2 per trail.
Easter egg ‘Eggsploits’, 1 April, 1:30-3pm
Get your paints and glitter out and bring along your hardboiled eggs to Fountains for an egg and spoon race, best decorated egg and egg rolling competitions.
Normal admission charges apply.
Booking is not required for any of these events.
For more information on each, please call 01765 608888.

Charlecote Park, nest ball©National Trust Images John Millar

Charlecote Park, nest ball©National Trust Images John Millar

Stowe, Buckinghamshire
Temple trail for kids, 29 March – 14 April, 10am-4pm
Follow in the footsteps of famous 18th century explorers to discover the fantastic temples, monuments and hidden treasures of Stowe. This self-led trail is fun for the whole family. Can you discover the secrets behind some of the temples by the end of your inspiring visit?
Normal admission charges apply.
Dogs on leads welcome.
Cadbury Easter Egg Trails – ‘Easter eggstravaganza’, 31 March – 1 April, 10am-
4pm
Crack the clues around the New Inn and gardens at Stowe to claim your Easter egg prize. On the trail, discover the adventures of Greek and Roman gods and heroes, as well as the grand tours of the family who used to live at Stowe in the Georgian times.
Normal admission charges apply, ticket charge £2.50 per child’s trail.
Booking is not required for either of these events.
For more information on either, please call 01280 817 156.

Petworth House and Park, West Sussex
Bunny in a bag, 29 March – 7 April, 11am-4pm
Ever wished that you could be the Easter Bunny? Well stop rabbiting on about it and hop over to Petworth to get the ultimate bunny makeover. Pick up a bunny bag and follow a trail of woodland creatures to help build your very own bunny ears, tail and whiskers. Once your transformation is complete, you can enjoy a chocolate treat.
No admission charges apply, ticket charge £3.50 per child.
Booking is not required for this event.
For more information, please call 01798 342207.

Lanhydrock, Cornwall
Cadbury Easter Egg Trail, 29 March – 14 April, 10am-4pm
Find all of the clues in the garden at Lanhydrock over the holidays and win an Easter-themed prize.
Normal admission charges apply, ticket charge £2.50 per trail.
Servant stories, 2-14 April, 10am-4pm
Find out more about the Lanhydrock servants in this fun trail around the gardens and receive a small prize at the end for completion.
Normal admission charges apply, ticket charge £2 per trail.
Booking is not required for either of these events.
For more information on each, please call 01208 265950

Stourhead, Wiltshire
Cadbury Easter Egg Trail, 23-28 March and 2-7 April, 11am-4pm
Join in with springtime family fun at Stourhead and take part in their Easter trail, giant games, face-painting and of course…eating chocolate. (Face painting available
Easter Sunday and Monday only).
Normal admission charges apply, ticket charge £2.50 per trail.
Booking is not required for this event.
For more information, please call 01747 841152.
Beat the egg and chase the rabbit, 30 March, 10am-1pm
Join the Eco Fitness team for some fun Easter antics at Stourhead including a beat the egg 8k run and U’16s chase the rabbit 1k run.
No admission charges apply, ticket charge £10 per adult and £3 per child.
Please visit the Eco Fitness website www.ecofitness.co.uk for more information.
Booking is essential for this event.
For more information, please call 01373 836552.

Nymans, West Sussex ©National Trust Images David Levenson

Nymans, West Sussex ©National Trust Images David Levenson

Castle Ward, County Down
Easter at the barn, 29 March-7 April, 10am-5pm
Join Castle Ward for some Easter fun over the holiday period, with children’s craft activities, table top games, ride-on tractors, sandpit and farmyard trails to enjoy. Bring a picnic, visit the farm animals and relax by the shores of Strangford Lough.
Easter family fun, 30 March, 10am-4pm
Visit the beautiful estate over the holidays and have some quality time with this great family package – hire bikes, canoes and have a go at archery.
Booking is essential for this event, please call 028 4372 3933.
Easter sea safari sightseeing boat trips, 30 March – 2 April
Everyone will love this sightseeing boat tour of Strangford Lough with its abundance of nature and wildlife. See the SeaGen, Angus Rock Lighthouse, surface whirlpools and the seals at Cloughy Rocks Nature Reserve. You might even see a pod of porpoises or a basking shark.
Please note; this trip is suitable for children over 3 years of age and leaves from
Strangford Pier. Please check for times.

Booking is essential for this event, please call 028 4372 3933.
Easter fair, 31 March – 1 April, 12-6pm
Visit Castle Ward and enjoy the annual Easter fair, including kids’ activities, local crafts and food, and horse and carriage rides (weather dependant) for all the family.
Easter family adventure day, 2 April, 11am-1:30pm and 2:30-5pm
Enjoy a fun day out with the family over the holidays and try out a range of activities including canoeing, archery and orienteering.
Please note; this activity is suitable for children over 4 years of age.
Booking is essential for this event, please call 028 4372 3933.
Kids’ Easter camp, 3-5 April, 10am-4pm
Join in with activities galore during an action packed three days at Castle Ward. An answer to all child care problems for the Easter week, with archery, rock hopping, canoeing, climbing and more.
Please note; this activity is suitable for ages 8-15 years.
Booking is essential for this event, please call 028 4372 3933.

Normal admission charges apply for all of these events.
Booking is not required for any of these events unless otherwise stated.
For more information on these events, please call 028 4488 1204.

Newtown National Nature Reserve, Isle of Wight
Wildzone: spring lambs, 11 April, 10-11:30am
Have fun meeting the sheep and making spring lambs with real wool from the National Trust’s flock at Newtown over the holidays.
No admission charges apply, ticket charge £3 per child.
Booking is essential for this event, please call 01983 741020.

Winchester City Mill, Hampshire
Seasonal baking demonstration – Easter hot cross buns, 30 March, 11am-4pm and Easter baking, 6 April, 11am-4pm
Learn how to make and sample delicious baked treats at Winchester City Mill this Easter. Discover how freshly milled stone-ground flour can be combined with locally grown produce to make delicious hot cross buns and Easter themed treats.
Normal admission charges apply.
Booking is not required for these events.
For more information, please call 01962 870057.

Trelissick Garden, Cornwall©National Trust Images John Millar

Trelissick Garden, Cornwall©National Trust Images John Millar

Polesden Lacey, Surrey
Cadbury Easter Egg Trail, 29 March – 1 April, 11am-4pm
The eggs-tremely popular Easter Egg Trail is back at Polesden featuring lots of activities for children including face painting, games and storytelling.
Normal admission charges apply, ticket charge £2.50 per trail.
Easter holiday trail, 2 – 14 April, 11am-4pm
Join in the fun at Polesden Lacey this half term with their Easter holiday trail.
Normal admission charges apply, ticket charge £1 per trail.
Booking is not required for either of these events.
For more information, please call 01372 452048.

Castle Drogo, Devon
Cadbury Easter Egg Trail, 29 March – 1 April, 11am-4pm
Follow the trail around the garden and grounds at Castle Drogo and collect your Easter egg prize.
Easter egg and spoon race, 1 April, 11am-4pm
Come and be part of the National Trust’s nationwide Easter egg and spoon race and have fun with all of the family.

Normal admission charges apply for both events, ticket charge £2 per event.
Booking is not required for this event.
For more information, please call 01647 433306.

Clumber Park, Nottinghamshire
Discover Easter, 25 March – 8 April, 10am-3:30pm
Have you ever wondered when Easter is, why the Easter bunny exists or what an Easter tree is? Then pop into the chapel at Clumber Park this Easter where more will be answered.
Cadbury Easter Egg Trail, 29 March – 1 April, 11am- 3:30pm
Explore the quiz trail at Clumber Park this Easter. Follow the clues, solve the puzzles and win a tasty prize.
Normal admission charges apply, ticket charge £2 per trail.
Traditional Easter Sunday, 31 March, 11:30am-12:30pm
All are welcome to experience a traditional Anglo-Catholic Easter Service with choral song and music from the magnificent organ at Clumber Park this Easter.
Normal admission charges apply for all of these events unless otherwise stated.
Booking is not required for any of these events.
For more information, please call 01909 544909.

Hardy Country, Dorset
Victorian Easter activities, 29 March – 1 April, 3-7 April and 10-14 April, 11am-5pm
Visit Hardy’s birthplace and Max Gate over the holidays and have fun with Victorian craft activities. You can decorate the brightest egg or even make the prettiest Victorian bonnet.
Normal admission charges apply, a small fee may apply for some activities.
Cadbury Easter Egg Trail, 29 March – 1 April, 11am-5pm
Go and explore writer Thomas Hardy’s birthplace over the Easter weekend and take part in the fun Easter egg trails and puzzles to win a chocolate prize.
Normal admission charges apply, ticket charge £2.50 per trail.
Dogs on leads welcome to both events.
Booking is not required for either of these events.
For more information, please call 01305 262366.

Kinver Edge and the Rock Houses, Staffordshire
Easter geocaching, 11 April, 11am-4pm
Join the hi-tech treasure hunting game at Kinver Edge this Easter and search for hidden treasure boxes, each one filled with an Easter themed activity.
No admission charges apply, ticket charge £10 per group.
Dogs on leads welcome.
Booking is essential for this event, please call 01562 712 822.
For more information, please call 07920181605.

Dinefwr Park and Castle, Carmarthenshire
Cadbury Easter Egg Trails – ‘Eggs & Birds’, 29 March – 1 April, 12-4pm
Children and grown-ups can join Dinefwr this Easter holiday to discover the wonder of bird-watching. Learn to use binoculars and I.D. sheets and try the ‘Eggs & Birds’ trail over the Easter weekend to win an Easter egg.
Normal admission charges apply, ticket charge £1.50 per child’s trail.
Dogs on leads welcome.
Booking is advisable for this event, please call 01558 824512.

Quarry Bank Mill and Styal Estate, Cheshire
Cadbury Easter Egg Trail, 29 March – 1 April, 12-4pm

Hunt for clues around Quarry Bank Mill over the Easter weekend to earn an egg, plus take part in games and activities on the Mill Meadow.
Normal admission charges apply, ticket charge £1 per trail.
Booking is not required for this event.
For more information, please call 01625 527468.