Trengwainton Garden National Trust

Trengwainton is perfect if you’re looking for school holiday fun that’ll keep the whole family entertained. The year usually starts with a nature-inspired active trail to spring into February half term and to get everyone moving again after winter’s hibernation. At Easter, there’s a world of adventures to be had with Easter trail activities that usually include seed planting, bean bag games, plant-bingo and sensory experiences.

The activities can be enjoyed for free, or for a small charge you can have the full Easter experience including a trail sheet, bunny ears and a dairy or vegan and Free From chocolate egg (both made using Rainforest Alliance Certified cocoa). Head to Trengwainton for May half term and young and old can make fallen flower kebabs. Collect a stick, gather fallen flowers as you explore a garden busting with spring colour, then pop them in the ground to create a collective piece of wild art.

If the summer holidays stretch out before you with a sense of dread for how you’ll fill them, then you’ll love Trengwainton’s Summer of Play, sponsored by Starling Bank. Like a freezer full of ice pops, there’s a flavour for everyone with games and activities zoned in areas of the garden that are within easy reach of the toilets, café and shaded spots for summer picnics. To enjoy Trengwainton for free, visit during Heritage Open Days from 08-12 & 15 September.

Experience the garden with your senses through touch, audio and visual prompts on a sensory trail and immerse yourself in the atmosphere of this special place. October half term is a time for popping on your wellies and splashing and crunching your way around Trengwainton, collecting fallen leaves to make leaf bunting or seeing how many autumn colours you can tick off. For a magical end to the year, make sure you book your tickets early for Trengwainton’s Winter Lights Festival, in collaboration with Tough Dough CLC.

The walled garden and orchard are lit with fairy lights and lanterns made by local schools, community groups and artists. Bring family and friends together for a photo by the wishing tree, keep out the winter chill with something deliciously warming from CAST café or pop into the bookshop where children can make a Christmas craft. Tickets will go on sale on Trengwainton’s website from September.