From wintery adventures in nature, outdoor family trails and welly wanders, to seasonally inspired crafts, activities and games, there are lots of events and activities on offer this February half term from the National Trust.
Whether exploring miles of woodland, coast, gardens and landscapes as a family on cold, crisp winter days, or looking for indoor activities and a warming lunch to escape from the rain, whatever the weather there’s something to entertain the kids on a family day out.
Here’s a round-up of some of the best and most exciting National Trust events and activities in Norfolk to keep the whole family busy this half term. To find out more, visit http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk
Blickling Estate, Norfolk
Whatever the weather, Blickling Estate has something to entertain you and your family this half term holiday. The House is open daily between 11am and 3pm. Can you spot where the Blickling Bull is hiding in each room? Take a look at ‘Secrets from the Stores’, items from the collections that have never been on display before, including a hoard of doll pieces, ceramic flowers and a key to a missing door. Be inspired by the stories of these interesting objects!
Soak up the season heading into the garden with an Explorer Pack, looking out for bright yellow daffodils, winter-flowering hellebores and scented shrubs. Or adventure across the estate on two wheels. Cycle hire will be open on 15 and 16 February, and from 19 to 23 February from 10am to 3pm (last hire at 2pm), with a range of bikes available. If walking is more your thing, pick up a map at Visitor Welcome and let the kids lead the way as you navigate through the parkland, looking out for snowdrops, aconites and a variety of birds.
Family days at Blickling Estate | Norfolk | National Trust
Felbrigg Hall, Gardens and Estate
This half term at Felbrigg, pick up a Nature Trackers sheet and borrow a Tracker Pack from the welcome team to spot signs of the season and animal marks left in the landscape. Roam freely across the 520-acre estate or go on the family-friendly circular church and ice house walk through open fields and woods, passing historic buildings dating back to the 1700s, notable trees, a hidden lake and an imaginatively planted arrangement of beech trees.
Step into the Walled Garden and discover intricate metalwork and larger than life sculptures, inspired by the flora, fauna and fungi of the estate. See how many metal creatures you can spot around the lily pond, as well as dormice and snails hiding on benches and gates.
Explore the 17th-century hall, sparkling after its deep winter clean, and follow a trail to find hidden objects. A trip to the Squire’s Pantry tea-room for freshly prepared drinks and snacks provides the cherry on top of a fun family day out.
Family days at Felbrigg Estate | Norfolk | National Trust
Oxburgh Estate
Pop on your wellies and head to Oxburgh Estate this half term where you can join a snowdrop tour or discover at them at your own pace as you stroll through the gardens and parkland. There’s plenty to get imaginations whirring inside and out with snowdrop decorations, snowdrops to buy and take home and even snowdrop themed biscuits in the tearoom too!
Oxburgh Estate | Norfolk | National Trust
Sheringham Park
At Sheringham Park, discover a new collection of fairy doors as you wander through the arching willow arbour, around the wildlife pond and through the dormant wildflower meadow of the Bower Garden. Take in the sights and sounds of nature using a Nature Trackers sheet and Tracker Pack to identify wildlife around you. Climb the viewing towers nestled in the Wild Garden or reach the summit of the taller Gazebo.
Let spectacular views over canopy and out to sea blow away winter cobwebs before rewarding your efforts at the Courtyard Café.
