Escape into autumn this half term with outdoor wildlife trails, indoor pumpkin carving, bat walks, spooky tales and wild play – there’s something to keep everyone entertained over the holiday.
For families that enjoy getting hands-on there is pumpkin carving at Allan Bank in Grasmere on October 26, 27 and October 28 to October 31, bulb planting taking place on the Wray estate from October 28 to November 1, wild nature crafts as part of a Wellbeing in Woods event in Wasdale led by Karen Whybrow and a chance to get out after dark with the Langdale National Trust rangers on a bat walk, taking place on October 29, October 30 and October 31.
There are also plenty of nature trails to choose from.
Families can learn about native wildlife whilst collecting rubbings from the plaques around the park at Fell Foot, follow in the footsteps of artists on the new Looking through the Claude Glass trail at Aira Force, collect fascinating facts along Sizergh’s Tree Top Trumps Trail, explore the Beepot garden trail at Acorn Bank and hunt for autumn treasures at Wray.
At Wordsworth House & Garden in Cockermouth, families can enter into the spirit of a Georgian All Hallows’ Eve with themed craft activities running across half term and spooky Cumbrian stories by the fire with Jessie McMeekin on October 30.
For anyone planning further ahead there are Family Stargazing Evenings at Allan Bank and Fell Foot in January and February 2025.
There are entry charges at some places, National Trust members and under-fives go free.
To find out more about these events and family-friendly days out head to the National Trust website at https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/lake-district/family-friendly
