7 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
Visitors use the Stranger Folk app to follow an interactive folklore quest around Lanhydrock, completing stories, puzzles and challenges as they search for the Stranger Folk. The activity is suitable for ages 7 and over and can be played at visitors’ own pace.
Lanhydrock is a historic Victorian family country house set within a large estate featuring beautiful formal gardens, parkland and woodlands. Visitors can explore the Jacobean mansion interior with its rich history and also enjoy extensive outdoor activities such as walking, cycling, and family-friendly events. Cafes and shops provide food and shopping options on site.
7 Oct–8 Nov (another 30 days)
Families can follow an interactive outdoor trail through Baddesley Clinton’s gardens, finding characters from Tom Fletcher’s Who’s in Your Book? series and completing playful challenges. The trail ends with a photo opportunity in a giant book cut-out.
Baddesley Clinton is a moated 13th-century manor house near Warwick, England, known for its historic architecture, secret priest holes, and beautiful formal gardens. Managed by the National Trust, it offers visitors indoor exploration of the house and outdoor enjoyment of the surrounding parkland and gardens.
7–22 Oct (another 13 days)
Local nature photographer Ben Pullitz displays wildlife and landscape photographs in a pop-up shop at Lytes Cary Manor.
Lytes Cary is a Grade I listed historic manor house in Somerset dating from the 14th century, featuring a chapel, Great Hall with period furnishings, and extensive Arts and Crafts style gardens listed as Grade II. The National Trust owns the property and offers public access to the older parts of the house and the distinctive gardens set in themed 'rooms' with hedges, ponds, and an orchard.
18 Oct–1 Nov
Follow a pumpkin-spotting trail around Hatchlands Park’s parkland, then visit the house to see its Halloween decorations on house open days.
Hatchlands Park is a historic red-brick country house with notable Robert Adam interiors and surrounding landscaped gardens in Surrey. It features the world's largest collection of historic keyboard instruments and a rare Cobbe portrait of William Shakespeare, with facilities including a café, shop, and open parkland.
17 Oct (next Saturday)
A Saturday day pass provides access to four talks at Emmetts Garden, covering gardening, design, creativity, the natural world and the science of magic mushrooms. Each talk is followed by a question-and-answer session.
Emmetts Garden is an Edwardian estate featuring six acres of arboretum and gardens on a high sandstone ridge near Ide Hill, Kent, offering expansive views and a rose garden next to a Victorian house, though the house is not open to the public.
9–13 Oct, 16–20 Oct…
Explore Mompesson House dressed to reflect the Portman family’s time there and learn about Regency life and the family’s social calendar. Visitors can see a Regency parlour and children’s playroom, take part in activities, and follow a spotter trail around the house.
Mompesson House is an 18th-century Queen Anne style historic house in Salisbury, Wiltshire, owned by the National Trust. Visitors can explore its carefully restored Georgian interiors and collections of 18th-century decorative arts. The house was also a filming location for the movie Sense and Sensibility.
17–18 Oct (next weekend)
Harvest at Nunnington explores harvest traditions and autumn displays, with visitors able to join a guided garden tour to learn about the gardens as they change for the season.
Nunnington Hall is a Grade I listed 17th-century country house in North Yorkshire featuring rich historic interiors, art collections, and period furniture. The hall sits beside the River Rye and is surrounded by organically managed gardens and orchards. It is managed by the National Trust and open to visitors interested in English heritage, architecture, and gardens.
16–18 Oct (next weekend)
Adventure Cinema presents a programme of film screenings outdoors on the West Front Lawn, including family films, cult classics and blockbusters. Attendees can bring a picnic and watch screenings from Friday 16 to Sunday 18 October.
The RHS Partner Garden at Wentworth Woodhouse offers restored historic gardens with a formal Italian Garden, canal pond, woodland, Japanese garden, and a maze, providing a scenic outdoor experience. The garden is accessible, dog friendly, and has refreshments and plant sales on site.
7–11 Oct, 14–18 Oct…
An interactive display explores the history and family tree of the Rothschild family, including their connections to Waddesdon Manor and their interests in art, horticulture, nature and sustainability.
Waddesdon Manor in Buckinghamshire is a French Renaissance-style château set in expansive Victorian gardens featuring ornate fountains, a rococo aviary, and a woodland playground. Visitors can explore the impressive art collection inside the manor, enjoy family-friendly outdoor activities, guided garden walks, and dine at onsite restaurants and cafes.
7–31 Oct (another 22 days)
Children follow a trail inspired by Eric Carle’s The Very Hungry Caterpillar™, spotting fruit and snacks, discovering facts, and taking part in games and activities in Belton’s Italian Garden.
Belton House is a Grade I listed English country house in Lincolnshire, surrounded by formal gardens and a deer park. It offers indoor attractions including historic rooms, exhibitions, and a restaurant in the restored stables, alongside outdoor experiences in its extensive gardens, parkland, and adventure playground for families.
7 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
A display in Castle Drogo’s Study explores the origins of the castle and the work of architect Sir Edwin Lutyens, featuring plans, drawings, sketches and objects from the collection.
Stone Lane Garden is a tranquil woodland and water garden near Dartmoor National Park featuring national plant collections, wildflower meadows, woodland walks, and annual sculpture exhibitions. It offers a peaceful outdoor experience with a seasonal tea room and plant sales.
17–18 Oct (next weekend)
The Marcher Stuarts present what day-to-day life was like in the 17th century, answering visitors’ questions and offering advice on topics such as dining etiquette and keeping gunpowder dry.
Tretower Castle is a Grade I-listed ruined castle in Powys, Wales, featuring a 12th-century motte and bailey design with a prominent 13th-century cylindrical keep and stone bailey walls with towers. Visitors can explore the historic ruins set in a triangular plan, reflecting its medieval military origins.
7 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
Visitors can relax with books in Book Nooks around Lanhydrock’s house and garden, reading together or independently. They can also create their own folklore story as part of the National Year of Reading 2026.
Lanhydrock House is a Grade I listed Jacobean country house in Cornwall, set in extensive gardens and parkland with historic interiors, including a long gallery with rare plasterwork. Visitors can tour the restored Victorian house, service rooms, nurseries, and church, experiencing both indoor and outdoor heritage.
17 Oct–1 Nov
Follow clues around Saltram’s house and garden to identify fairy-tale villains, spot hidden pumpkins and collect spell points. The event also includes a wand shop and spooky games on the play lawn.
10 Oct–1 Nov (next week)
October half-term at Buckland Abbey features a nautical theme, with visitors invited to look out for sea monsters including the Kraken, leviathan and Sirens.
Plymbridge Woods is a National Trust managed woodland in Devon featuring historic Plymbridge bridge, walking and cycling trails including the Drake's Trail, diverse wildlife, and recreational activities such as orienteering and mountain biking. It is open year-round and free to visit.
17 Oct (next Saturday)
The Cyclamen Society presents a display of flowering cyclamen species, with plants, seeds and publications for sale. Experts will be available to offer advice on growing cyclamen and raising them from seed.
RHS Garden Bridgewater is a large outdoor garden offering extensive plant collections, child-friendly learning areas, and several cafes for food and drink. Visitors can enjoy beautiful natural landscapes and seasonal meals while exploring the garden.
10 Oct–1 Nov (next week)
Explore the Hervey family’s collection at Ickworth, including historic objects such as Marie Antoinette’s fan, works by Italian masters and centuries-old books. The exhibition also looks at the collectors and the stories behind the objects.
Ickworth House is a notable neoclassical country house near Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, set in extensive parkland with historic ancient trees. Visitors can explore the house's art collections, Regency furniture, and architectural features, as well as the nearby Ickworth Church and parkland. The house also hosts events in its renovated West Wing.
7 Oct–15 Nov (another 37 days)
Follow one of three trails around Oxburgh Estate’s gardens to discover the stories and working lives of housemaid Ruth English, housekeeper Winifred Cooper and head gardener Fred Greef in the 20th century.
Oxburgh Hall is a moated Tudor country house in Norfolk featuring historic architecture, Victorian additions, notable religious concealments, needlework by Mary, Queen of Scots, and extensive gardens with woodland walks.
10–11 Oct, 17–18 Oct…
Visitors can follow a family-friendly trail through Goddards Gardens, finding hidden owls and collecting letters to solve an owl-related word. Completing the trail earns a sticker.
Goddards House and Garden in York is an Arts and Crafts historic house museum with well-preserved 1930s interiors and an extensive formal garden featuring a cruciform lily pool. Originally built for the Terry chocolate family, it now operated by the National Trust offers indoor heritage exhibits and outdoor garden exploration.
8–31 Oct (another 22 days)
View two seasonal garden scenes embroidered by Richmond & Leyburn Creative Stitchers, depicting Harlow Carr’s Main Borders in high summer and autumn. The exhibition is displayed in Harlow Carr Library.
RHS Garden Harlow Carr is a horticultural destination in North Yorkshire known for its extensive gardens, seasonal displays, and visitor facilities including cafés and a garden centre. Visitors can explore outdoors through varied garden areas and enjoy seasonal food offerings onsite.
Harrogate is a historic spa town in North Yorkshire, England, renowned for its spa waters, RHS Harlow Carr gardens, and rich cultural scene including festivals, galleries, and theatres. It is well-connected by rail and bus, with a walkable town centre featuring shopping, dining, and significant landmarks such as the Royal Pump Room and Royal Hall.
7 Oct 2026–28 Feb 2027 (another 142 days)
Families can enjoy outdoor play at Dunstable Downs, including a welly wander, building woodland dens, making muddy creations, and playing outdoor hopscotch while exploring seasonal changes and wildlife.
Dunstable Downs, the highest point in Bedfordshire, is a chalk escarpment in the Chiltern Hills offering outdoor activities like gliding and kite flying, with rich natural history and ancient archaeological sites. It is managed by the National Trust and accessible via walking trails.
13 Jun–1 Nov (another 23 days)
An exhibition at Nymans exploring the life and creative work of stage designer Oliver Messel, including objects relating to his work in interior design, film and theatre. A display in the Oriel Room features costumes created by students at Wimbledon College of Arts and inspired by Messel.
Nymans is a Grade II* listed English garden in West Sussex, featuring extensive woodland, rare plants, and the picturesque ruins of a mock-medieval stone manor. Managed by the National Trust, it showcases a variety of historic horticultural styles and plant collections.
7 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
Families can follow an outdoor Halloween ghost-hunt trail through Chartwell’s parkland, completing games and activities at eight spooky stops before collecting a sticker reward. The trail is designed for children under 8.
Chartwell is a historic English country house near Westerham, Kent, best known as the home of Sir Winston Churchill for over forty years. Visitors can explore the restored interiors, including Churchill's study and memorabilia, as well as extensive gardens and lakes designed by Churchill himself. The site includes a restaurant, shop, and exhibitions reflecting the life and legacy of Churchill.
17 Oct, 21 Nov
A guided forest-bathing experience at Alderley Edge, introducing the mindful Japanese practice of Shinrin-Yoku through a gentle walk and nature-based activities. Participants are guided to slow down, engage their senses and take away practices for continuing their connection with nature.
Alderley Edge offers an outdoor experience with dramatic scenery including a red sandstone escarpment, scenic countryside walks, and historical sites such as a Bronze Age burial mound. Visitors can explore wildlife-rich woodlands and enjoy a locally-run tea room on site. The venue is dog friendly and offers activities suitable for children.
7–8 Oct, 10–15 Oct…
Explore photographs and photobooks about two generations of the Harpur Crewe family’s children at Calke Abbey. Visitors can read, try a jigsaw and rocking horse, and dress up to act out a play.
Calke Abbey is a historic country estate in Derbyshire offering a unique visit with its Baroque mansion in decline, extensive parkland with ancient trees and deer, a vibrant walled garden, and accessible walking and cycling trails. The venue provides family-friendly outdoor play areas, guided tours, cafés, shops, and accessibility features including wheelchair access and mobility aids.
17 Oct–1 Nov
Follow family-friendly trails through Erddig’s historic house and garden to discover Welsh folklore and seasonal traditions. Seasonal crafts and marshmallow toasting are also offered during the event.
Erddig is a historic country house and estate in Wrexham, Wales, featuring a unique collection of servant memorabilia, 18th-century furniture, and extensive formal gardens. Visitors can explore both the house interiors and the landscaped outdoor parklands including remnants of Norman and medieval earthworks. The estate provides a distinctive insight into the life of an 18th-century Welsh country squire and his household, with on-site amenities including a café and activities suitable for children.
17–18 Oct, 21–25 Oct…
Explore harvest-themed displays and seasonal crafts at Quebec House, with a look at how an 18th-century household prepared garden produce for winter. Younger visitors can use a dressing-up station and spot crocheted squirrels, and weekend visitors can sample autumn-inspired treats.
Quebec House is a Grade I listed historic house museum in Westerham, Kent, featuring exhibitions and memorabilia related to General James Wolfe. Visitors can explore the historic interiors, 18th century styled gardens, and enjoy a tea room and bookshop on site.
Westerham is a historic market town in Kent known for its medieval church, connections to Winston Churchill, and featuring picturesque streets and cultural heritage sites.
5 Oct–31 Dec (another 83 days)
A portrait of Rudyard Kipling by Sir Philip Burne-Jones goes on display in Kipling’s Study at Bateman’s, alongside the portrait of his wife, Caroline. The display marks the start of a three-year loan from the National Portrait Gallery.
Bateman's is a 17th-century Jacobean house in Burwash, East Sussex, known as the home of Rudyard Kipling. Visitors can explore the house preserved as it was in Kipling's time, including his study and collections, as well as the garden and the historic water mill on the estate.
7 Oct, 10–14 Oct…
An exhibition by textile artists Textilia 3, featuring artworks inspired by East Riddlesden Hall’s architecture, historic collection, past inhabitants and landscape. The works use techniques including stitching, felt, mixed media, ceramics, dyeing and print.
East Riddlesden Hall is a 17th-century historic manor house in West Yorkshire featuring well-preserved interiors, a medieval tithebarn, walled gardens, and a tea room, offering both indoor and outdoor experiences. It is notable for its architecture, royalist symbols, and as a filming location for various TV series and films.
Keighley is a historic market town in West Yorkshire featuring Victorian architecture, a heritage steam railway, diverse cultural attractions, and a vibrant shopping and food scene.
7 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
A digital folklore adventure for groups, recommended for ages 7 and up, in which players follow audio-led prompts and complete magical tasks around Wentworth Castle Gardens. The app guides participants as they encounter fictional folk creatures and decide their fate.
Wentworth Castle is a Grade I listed historic country house in South Yorkshire, England, featuring extensive gardens, parkland, and a notable sham ruin folly. The site includes indoor heritage and outdoor landscaped gardens managed by a partnership including the National Trust. Visitors can explore restored historic interiors, formal gardens, and naturalistic landscapes.
17 Oct (next Saturday)
Artist Catt Standen leads a day-long architectural sketch crawl at Croome, where participants practise observational drawing and explore techniques such as perspective, depth and line work. The session includes time to develop sketches using a range of art materials.
Croome is a historic estate in Worcestershire featuring an 18th-century house, extensive Capability Brown-designed parkland and gardens, a WWII RAF museum, and facilities including a cafe and shop. Visitors can enjoy indoor exhibits, outdoor trails, family play areas, and accessible amenities.
9–10 Oct, 16–17 Oct…
The Big Draw at Monk's House offers a range of garden-based art activities themed around making marks, including drawing, sketching and creating pictures from natural forms. Activities are open to all ages and abilities.
Monk's House is a 16th-century cottage in Rodmell, East Sussex, notable as the home of writer Virginia Woolf and the Bloomsbury Group. Visitors can explore the period interiors, her writing lodge, and the garden with views of Mount Caburn, all operated by the National Trust as a writer's house museum.
10–11 Oct, 13 Oct…
Join the Ickworth team for a tour exploring the Hervey family, their collection and the work involved in caring for the estate’s treasures.
The Abbey of Bury St Edmunds is the ruins of a once wealthy Benedictine monastery in Suffolk, England, known for its historical importance, large medieval gatehouses, and surrounding Abbey Gardens. Visitors can explore the outdoor remains and gardens, reflecting its rich history as a pilgrimage site and monastic center.
7–11 Oct, 14–18 Oct…
An exhibition at Quebec House explores the story of children cared for by the Westerham branch of the Foundling Hospital and the tokens their mothers left with them. It also displays tokens made by local schoolchildren in response to the story.
Toys Hill is a large woodland area in Kent known for its scenic walking paths, diverse wildlife, and historical landmarks including a bat tower and old manor ruins. Visitors can enjoy peaceful walks, nature observation, and the natural beauty of the Greensand Ridge.
10 Oct, 17 Oct…
A guided tour takes visitors through Dunster Castle’s Victorian kitchen and larders, with stories about the cooks, maids and other staff who worked there.
The Yarn Market in Dunster, Somerset, is a historic Grade I listed octagonal building from the early 17th century, originally built to support the local wool and cloth trade, featuring a unique central pier with timber roofing and marked by Civil War history.
8 Oct–30 Nov (another 52 days)
An exhibition of photographs by Lachlan French and Clive Downes reveals Audley End’s usually closed second-floor rooms, once used as guest bedrooms and servants’ quarters. The images explore the rooms’ faded interiors and traces of life in the house.
Audley End House is a grand early 17th-century Jacobean English country house near Saffron Walden, Essex, set within Capability Brown-designed parkland with historic gardens. It served as a royal residence and was used by the Special Operations Executive during WWII. Visitors can explore the extensive interiors, grounds and gardens, which have been featured in film and television.
2 Oct, 18 Oct
A talk explores why sections were cut from Sir William Dugdale’s 1658 history of St Paul’s Cathedral and how the book connects to The Vyne and one of its former owners. Attendees can ask questions and see the volume on display in the house afterwards.
The Vyne in Hampshire is a historic Tudor mansion with royal connections set within extensive gardens, meadows, and ancient woodlands. Visitors can explore opulent state rooms, enjoy family-friendly outdoor activities, and attend outdoor theatre and cinema events. On-site facilities include a tea-room and a gift shop, with accessibility features and dog-friendly areas.
17 Oct, 19 Oct…
Meet costumed characters at The Workhouse and Infirmary, hear stories about the inmates’ lives and see them at their daily tasks. Activities include writing on a slate, helping with washing and learning to pick oakum.
The Workhouse in Southwell, Nottinghamshire, is a well-preserved 19th-century workhouse museum operated by the National Trust, showcasing historic rooms and offering educational programs for children. It highlights historic poor law practices and Victorian-era workhouse life.
Southwell is a historic cathedral and market town in Nottinghamshire, England, known for its beautiful Southwell Minster, rich history, and vibrant cultural festivals such as the Southwell Music Festival and Gate to Southwell Festival.
8–26 Oct (another 17 days)
An exhibition of Tansy Lee Moir’s drawings, paintings and monoprints inspired by trees and their histories. Visitors can view works made with charcoal, natural pigments and mixed media.
Sarum College is a historic college located in Salisbury Cathedral Close offering accessible accommodation with modern amenities, views of the cathedral, and proximity to cultural sites and city shops. Visitors can enjoy a mix of historic ambience and contemporary comfort within a largely wheelchair accessible environment.
17 Oct, 25 Oct…
Visitors can watch Winchester City Mill’s newly installed historic waterwheel turn during test sessions, ahead of the Mill’s return to milling.
Winchester City Mill is a restored watermill from 1744 in Winchester, offering historical water-powered flour milling, weekend demonstrations, a café, and wildlife viewing including otters.
7 Oct–8 Nov (another 30 days)
Explore 30 Pikachu trading cards illustrated by different artists, discover facts about the character and design your own Pikachu card as part of an art adventure at Kingston Lacy.
Kingston Lacy in Dorset is an opulent family home styled as a Venetian Palace, surrounded by extensive gardens and an 8,500-acre estate featuring heathland, hill forts and rare cattle breeds. Visitors can explore the house's remarkable art collection and ancient Egyptian artefacts, enjoy child-friendly play areas, café dining, and guided garden tours. The venue offers a mix of indoor and outdoor experiences with good accessibility and dog-friendly outdoor areas.
17 Oct (next Saturday)
An open day focused on bonsai, with trees, pots and tools available to browse and buy, and an expert on hand to offer advice. Visitors can also explore the Japanese-inspired garden.
Cascades Gardens is a natural four-acre garden featuring Japanese-inspired water and rock gardens, a historic limestone quarry, waterfalls, and various quiet seating areas designed for meditation, set in Derbyshire.
8 Oct–8 Nov (another 30 days)
A photography exhibition showcasing the work of National Trust volunteer photographer Tony Blackett, exploring the details and perspectives found around us.
Gibside is a historic Georgian country estate in Tyne and Wear featuring landscaped parkland, architectural ruins, and restored buildings such as the Palladian chapel and Banqueting House. Visitors can explore both outdoor grounds and significant indoor heritage structures.
17 Oct–15 Nov
A seasonal family event at Sutton Hoo with autumn-themed play activities indoors and outdoors, including races, imaginative play, crafts and Anglo-Saxon dress-up activities.
Sutton Hoo is a historic estate featuring the Anglo-Saxon Royal Burial Ground with a viewing tower, Tranmer House museum, and the High Hall exhibition. Visitors can explore woodland trails, enjoy on-site food and shopping, and participate in family-friendly activities including an adventure playground.
17 Oct–8 Nov
A family autumn trail through the garden at Knightshayes explores how plants and animals prepare for winter. Visitors can take part in hands-on activities about wildlife behaviours such as storing food, migrating and hibernating.
Knightshayes Court is a Victorian country house near Tiverton, Devon, known for its architecture by William Burges and extensive historic gardens. The Grade I listed house and Grade II* listed gardens offer a blend of indoor heritage and outdoor landscape experiences, including rare features like a stické court and a golfing memorabilia exhibition.
18 Oct (next Sunday)
The Thames Chamber Choir performs two identical 30-minute concerts of music by Byrd, Tallis and other composers from the Jacobean era, alongside the William Larkin portraits from the Suffolk Collection.
Kenwood is a historic house located on Hampstead Heath featuring breathtaking interiors and a world-class art collection that visitors can enjoy for free. The venue includes tranquil landscaped gardens, children's activities, and a café, offering both indoor cultural experiences and extensive outdoor grounds to explore. It hosts seasonal events such as immersive Christmas light trails and exhibitions that appeal to families and art lovers alike.
9–10 Oct, 14 Oct…
A behind-the-scenes tour of Knole’s attics, exploring decorated ceilings, graffiti, ritual protection marks and historic artefacts, with visible conservation work revealing the house’s structure.
The Royal Oak Foundation Conservation Studio is a National Trust conservation workspace housed in a historic medieval barn in Sevenoaks, Kent. It offers visitors a unique indoor experience of seeing expert conservation work on decorative art and exhibits, supported by interactive displays and knowledgeable volunteers.
Sevenoaks is a historic market town in Kent, England, featuring medieval landmarks like Knole House and Knole Park, with commuter rail links to London and a vibrant town centre offering shopping, cultural venues and local food experiences.
7 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
Families can follow an interactive garden trail based on Rachel Bright’s children’s book, helping squirrels Cyril and Bruce work together to find the last nut of the season. The trail includes games and takes place along the pathway around the lake.
The Homewood is a striking early 20th-century Modernist country villa near Esher, Surrey, designed by architect Patrick Gwynne. Open for pre-booked guided tours of its house and gardens from April to October, this unique property offers visitors a chance to explore architectural history alongside landscaped gardens in a private residence setting.
7 Oct–31 Dec (another 83 days)
Explore an outdoor trail through Stourhead’s landscape garden, featuring 17 trees and the myths, folklore and reflections associated with them across different cultures and centuries.
Stourhead is a historic estate in Wiltshire featuring a Grade I listed Neo-Palladian house, an acclaimed 18th-century English landscape garden with classical temples, an artificial lake, and significant art collections, managed by the National Trust.
7–31 Oct (another 22 days)
Visitors can slow down and take in the sights and sounds of Gunby Estate, then use chalk to add their own drawing to a collaborative artwork in the Garden. The artwork grows through the season as visitors contribute.
Gunby Hall is a Grade I listed historic country house in Lincolnshire featuring significant art collections and Victorian walled gardens set within a Capability Brown styled park. The estate includes a clock tower, a stable block, and an active parish church on site, offering a combined indoor and outdoor visitor experience.
8 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
A volunteer-led tour explores how Oxburgh Hall has changed over the past 500 years and the conservation work carried out during the Raise the Roof project. The tour follows the outside of the hall and lasts about 45 minutes.
Barton Bendish Hall is an early 20th century Odd Fellows Hall in Norfolk, serving the local community and accessible by private pre-arranged tours only.
7 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
An autumn sensory trail in the garden at Dyrham Park, inviting visitors to explore seasonal sights, sounds and smells, including the Japanese maple and katsura tree.
Dyrham Park is a Grade I listed baroque country house and extensive parkland in Gloucestershire, England, featuring historic interiors with Dutch art, 274 acres of gardens, an orangery, and a stable block now a tea room. It offers public access with events and has been a filming location for notable productions.
17–18 Oct (next weekend)
Visitors can meet the farmyard animals at Tatton Park Farm and pick their own pumpkins from the pumpkin field. Pumpkins are available in a range of colours and sizes.
Tatton Park is a historic estate in Cheshire featuring a neoclassical mansion, extensive formal and natural gardens, a large deer park, and a working farm showcasing rare breeds. Visitors can enjoy indoor tours of the mansion, outdoor exploration of gardens and parkland, and family-friendly activities including a children's playground and various events throughout the year.
17 Oct–15 Nov
Families can follow an interactive Stranger Folk trail through Gibside’s landscape, solving clues and encountering creatures from British folklore as part of an app-based adventure. The app is designed for children aged 7–12, and the group can play together at their own pace.
Gibside is a Grade I-listed Georgian landscape garden near Rowlands Gill featuring historic ruins, extensive walking trails, and family-friendly outdoor activities including adventure play areas and den building. The venue includes a café, bookshop, and hosts seasonal events and guided tours, welcoming visitors and dogs alike.
8 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
Join a guided outdoor tour around Flatford to learn about John Constable’s life and work and see the views that inspired paintings including The Hay Wain and Flatford Mill.
Bridge Cottage is a 16th-century thatched cottage in Flatford, Suffolk, part of the National Trust properties, featuring an exhibition on John Constable and access to scenic River Stour walks.
3 Oct–29 Nov (another 51 days)
An outdoor exhibition of shortlisted contemporary environmental photography and film from Earth Photo 2026. The works explore nature, people, places and the effects of climate change.
Tyntesfield is a Victorian Gothic Revival house surrounded by 540 acres of estate including woodland, gardens, and play areas, offering both indoor and outdoor experiences. Visitors can enjoy guided tours of the house, explore walking trails, dine at cafés and a restaurant, shop for gifts, and bring dogs on leads to designated areas. Accessibility features include a mobility shuttle, accessible routes, and wheelchair provision.
6–30 Oct (another 21 days)
A short outdoor introductory talk gives an overview of Rudyard Kipling’s life, family and writing, and explains his connection to Bateman’s before visitors go inside the house.
Pashley Manor Gardens offers 11 acres of beautifully maintained English country gardens surrounding a historic Grade I listed manor house. Visitors can enjoy seasonal displays of flowers including tulips, roses, and dahlias, art exhibitions, and a café with garden views. The site provides good wheelchair accessibility and facilities including accessible parking and toilets. Admission is free for Historic Houses members, with fees for others, especially during the annual Tulip Festival.
7–11 Oct, 14–18 Oct…
An exhibition of intricately embroidered wedding shawls, baghs and phulkaris from the Karun Thakar Collection, displayed in the neoclassical rooms at Osterley. The textiles were made by young women in undivided Punjab for ceremonial use.
Osterley Park is a Georgian era country estate in west London featuring a historic house with notable neoclassical interiors by Robert Adam and extensive parkland open to visitors. The National Trust manages the property, which includes a café, formal gardens, and woodland footpaths suitable for outdoor walks and cultural exploration.
10 Oct, 17 Oct
Join experts from the Dorset Fungus Group on a guided walk to find and identify fungi on Brownsea Island, and learn about their species and role in the ecosystem. The walk is for both novices and experienced participants and is not a foraging event.
Brownsea Island in Poole Harbour offers a unique wildlife haven with habitats for red squirrels and diverse birds, family-friendly trails, natural play areas, daily guided tours, and a historic campsite. Visitors access the island by ferry and can enjoy both outdoor nature and indoor facilities including a café and visitor centre.
Poole is a historic coastal town and seaport in Dorset, England, known for its large natural harbour, maritime heritage, sandy beaches, cultural attractions, and lively shopping and dining scene.
1 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
A month of activities at Chedworth Roman Villa explores Roman beliefs about death and the afterlife. The core activities run daily from 1 October to 1 November 2026.
Chedworth Roman Villa is a large and elaborate Roman villa near Chedworth in Gloucestershire featuring mosaic floors, heated baths, and a nymphaeum spring shrine, showcasing elite Romano-British life from 2nd to 5th century. It offers indoor archaeological remains and outdoor grounds for visitors to explore.
18 Oct, 20 Oct…
An outdoor guided tour of the statues and sculptures at Osborne, exploring who they represent and what they reveal about Queen Victoria, Prince Albert and their family.
Osborne House is a former royal residence in East Cowes, Isle of Wight, built as a summer home for Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. Visitors can explore the grand Italianate architecture, royal apartments, extensive gardens, and enjoy the unique historic setting including a private beach and the Durbar Room with Indian influences. The site offers a mix of indoor and outdoor experiences with historic interiors and landscaped grounds.
East Cowes is a historic town on the Isle of Wight known for its royal connections, maritime heritage, and walking routes along the River Medina. It features landmarks such as Osborne House and Norris Castle, along with a lively town center and transport links via ferry and bus services.
7 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
Follow a garden trail inspired by Eric Carle’s The Very Hungry Caterpillar, spotting fruits and snacks and taking part in games and activities while learning about the transformation from caterpillar to butterfly.
Wimpole Hall is a historic country estate near Cambridge featuring a grand 17th-century hall with significant architectural and garden designs, a large working farm with rare animal breeds, extensive landscaped grounds, and a range of family-friendly activities and events.
18 Oct, 15 Nov…
A ranger-guided tour in an all-terrain vehicle explores the nature and history of Studland’s beach, dunes and heather trail. The tour includes stops where participants can get out and take photos.
Studland Bay is a natural coastline in Dorset featuring a four-mile sandy beach with bathing waters and views of Old Harry Rocks. It offers outdoor activities including water sports, walking trails through dunes and woodlands rich in wildlife, and historical sites like a WWII observation bunker. Facilities include a café, shop, beach huts, and accessibility features.
17 Oct–1 Nov
A Halloween family event in the gardens, with spooky games and challenges such as broomstick racing and tossing eyeballs into a cauldron. It is described as suitable for children aged 4–7.
Hinton Ampner is a National Trust country house and garden estate in Hampshire, featuring a neo-Georgian mansion with rich interiors and extensive 20th-century gardens, alongside a historic village and church. Visitors can explore both the indoor historic house museum and the outdoor gardens and parkland.
13 Oct, 17 Oct…
An early-morning, self-led photography session at Winkworth Arboretum, offering time to photograph the autumn colours before the arboretum opens to the public.
Winkworth Arboretum is a National Trust-owned arboretum in Surrey featuring over 1000 species of trees, extensive azalea and rhododendron collections, and landscaped garden lakes across 95 acres of outdoor woodland.
7 Oct 2026–31 Oct 2027 (another 387 days)
Follow an outdoor trail of eight giant moth and butterfly models through Belton’s parkland, and learn about species sighted at the estate.
Grantham House is a historic town house built in 1380, owned by the National Trust, featuring architectural elements from several centuries and set within extensive gardens. Open daily as a community space with free entry, a café, and a second-hand bookshop, it offers visitors a blend of indoor and outdoor experiences with rich historical significance.
7 Oct–1 Nov, 16 Nov–23 Dec…
An exhibition celebrating 100 years of Winnie-the-Pooh, featuring extracts from A.A. Milne’s stories and E.H. Shepard’s illustrations, and exploring the creation of Pooh, his friends and the Hundred Acre Wood.
Anglesey Abbey offers extensive 35 acres of formal gardens and wildflower meadows with seasonal highlights including spring bulbs, roses, and a winter garden. The venue features outdoor attractions for nature lovers and families, including a children's play area and refreshments available on site.
17 Oct–1 Nov
An October half-term event at RHS Garden Wisley invites visitors to explore a spooky plants trail and discover the secrets of plants, with additional activities also offered.
RHS Garden Wisley in Surrey is a renowned horticultural garden offering extensive outdoor garden grounds with world-class plant displays, accompanied by multiple dining options and a garden centre. It provides a rich outdoor experience for visitors seeking to explore diverse flora and enjoy seasonal food offerings.
16–25 Oct
Visitors can wander through Myriad, an inflatable luminarium by Architects of Air, exploring winding tunnels and soaring spaces filled with coloured light. The experience draws inspiration from natural forms, geometry and architecture.
Sudbury Hall is a historic Restoration-era English country house in Derbyshire with a renowned Great Staircase and fine art collection, featuring a National Trust Museum of Childhood that offers interactive and child-friendly exhibits within its restored interiors and surrounding grounds.
18–22 Oct, 25–29 Oct…
Families can explore Trengwainton Garden through a sensory trail, collecting fallen leaves to make bunting and trying autumn-themed activities such as pumpkin hoopla and an apple-naming game.
Trengwainton Garden is a National Trust historic garden in Cornwall known for its exotic trees, shrubs, and Elizabethan walled garden with scenic views over Mount's Bay and The Lizard. The house on site is not open to the public.
17–19 Oct, 22–26 Oct…
Families can search the woods for the Golden Apple and identify Acorn Bank’s trees using a leaf activity sheet. Colouring materials are also available to use in the café.
Acorn Bank Garden & Watermill is a National Trust property near Penrith, Cumbria, featuring an extensive garden of medicinal and culinary herbs, orchards of old English fruit varieties, and a restored watermill powered by the Crowdundle Beck stream.
17 Oct (next Saturday)
A practical foraging workshop with local expert Lizzy, where participants learn to identify seasonal wild foods and forage sustainably. The session includes a break for lunch and discussion of preserving foraged ingredients.
Lyveden is a historic Elizabethan manor in Northamptonshire with an unfinished garden lodge, rare garden landscapes, and tranquil moats. Visitors can explore both the indoor manor exhibition and extensive outdoor gardens, enjoy seasonal events and workshops, and relax in the café.
17 Oct (next Saturday)
A beginner photography workshop at Sheffield Park and Garden, led by professional photographer Roger Bloxham. Attendees can practise in the garden’s early morning light and develop their photography skills and techniques.
Sheffield Park and Garden is a large landscape and woodland garden in East Sussex, originally designed by Capability Brown. It features a significant collection of rare plants and trees, natural ponds, and extensive grounds for outdoor exploration. The garden remains a National Trust property and offers visitors a serene and historic natural environment.
18 Oct (next Sunday)
Glass artist Suzie Lavender leads a beginner-friendly fused-glass workshop at Wightwick Manor, with a morning taster session making two creations and an afternoon session to design a hanging glass garland. Participants’ work is kiln-fired after the workshop and can be collected later or posted.
Wightwick Manor is a Victorian era Arts and Crafts house near Wolverhampton, showcasing original William Morris designs and a significant Pre-Raphaelite art collection, set in 17 acres of gardens and woodland with an additional De Morgan Gallery in the adjoining Old Manor. It is owned by the National Trust and open to the public with a café and shops onsite.
14 Oct–15 Nov (next week)
Two artisans bring together work by their creative friends, offering visitors a showcase of handmade work and a shopping opportunity.
18 Oct, 29 Nov…
The Ormesby 10k is a timed monthly Sunday run on a route through farmland, woods and parkland, using a mix of tarmac and gravel drives, field margins and woodland trails. Runners aged 14 and over can take part.
Ormesby Hall is a Grade I listed 18th-century Georgian mansion in North Yorkshire, offering visitors a blend of historic indoor interiors, including plasterwork and Victorian kitchens, alongside expansive gardens and estate walks. The venue showcases local heritage with a public model railway and hosts various events throughout the year.
Middlesbrough is a historic port town in North Yorkshire known for its industrial heritage, cultural venues, parks, and modern university presence.
17 Oct–1 Nov
Follow an interactive Halloween story trail through the Walled Garden and Farm yard, joining the Witch’s adventure with activities such as spotting pumpkins, casting a spell and pretending to fly on a broomstick.
Shugborough Estate in Staffordshire offers a blend of indoor and outdoor experiences including tours of a Georgian mansion, expansive gardens, parkland, and a working model farm. It features accessible facilities, food outlets, family-friendly activities, and dog-friendly grounds across 900 acres of historic and natural landscapes.
8–11 Oct, 15–18 Oct…
A pop-up tea room in the exhibition cottage where visitors can help themselves to tea or coffee served in vintage cups, with a biscuit.
Sandham Memorial Chapel is a Grade I listed chapel in Burghclere, Hampshire, featuring a series of World War I inspired murals by artist Stanley Spencer, run by the National Trust as a historic site open to the public.
7 Oct–23 Dec, 27–31 Dec
An exhibition at Oxburgh Hall about Agnes and Thomas Bedingfeld’s relationship and their Regency-era honeymoon, featuring their restored portraits, extracts from letters and diaries, and objects from the collection.
7 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
A museum room display at Calke Abbey showcasing the Chinese silk hangings from the State Bed. Visitors can look at the hangings and explore the symbolism and meanings in their imagery.
Calke Abbey is a Grade I listed English country house in Derbyshire, cared for by the National Trust, showcasing a baroque mansion preserved in a state of decline surrounded by a landscape park rich in natural heritage and historic estate features.
17 Oct (next Saturday)
Horticulturist and presenter Frances Tophill gives a talk about creating beautiful gardens that support biodiversity throughout the seasons. The talk is followed by a question-and-answer session.
Toys Hill is a hamlet in Kent known for its scenic viewpoint from a steep wooded escarpment, extensive National Trust woodland, and significant natural conservation value as a Site of Special Scientific Interest.
18 Oct, 15 Nov
A guide leads a 10km circular hike around Box Hill, highlighting notable features and less-visited parts of the area. The moderate-to-strenuous walk includes climbs, descents and a break, with opportunities to ask questions and learn about the Surrey Hills.
Box Hill in Surrey is a renowned natural landmark featuring chalk downland, diverse wildlife including rare orchids and butterflies, historic military forts, and scenic trails for walking and cycling. It offers panoramic views, a National Trust visitors' centre with a café, and family-friendly outdoor activities.
7 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
A volunteer-guided tour explores Studley Royal Water Garden and the abbey ruins, explaining the garden’s design and its place in the UNESCO World Heritage Site. The tour lasts about 90 minutes.
The Church of St Mary, Studley Royal, is a Victorian Gothic Revival church built in Early English style by architect William Burges. Situated within Studley Royal Park near Fountains Abbey, North Yorkshire, it was constructed as a memorial to Frederick Vyner. The church is renowned for its rich interior, fine stained-glass windows, and status as a Grade I listed building.
7–11 Oct, 14–18 Oct…
An exhibition exploring the design and construction of Sandham Memorial Chapel and its adjoining almshouses, including how Stanley Spencer’s artistic vision interacted with the architects’ practical and financial considerations.
The Chase is a 143-acre nature reserve near Woolton Hill, Hampshire, offering woodland, meadow, and heathland walks with wildlife including freely grazing horned cattle. It provides a quiet outdoor experience for walkers and nature enthusiasts.
17 Oct (next Saturday)
Join volunteer photographers and fungi enthusiasts on a walk through Clumber Park to explore autumn colours and fungi, with photography tips and information about the park.
Clumber Park is a large National Trust country park in Nottinghamshire with extensive outdoor natural areas, gardens, a serpentine lake, and a historic Grade I listed Gothic Revival chapel. Visitors can enjoy indoor exhibitions at the Discovery Centre and the Duke's Study café, alongside exploring vast outdoor parklands and gardens featuring rare plant collections and wildlife habitats.
7–31 Oct (another 22 days)
Stranger Folk is a Halloween folklore adventure at Wimpole Estate. Visitors use a downloadable app, guided by the Crone, to find places where folklore creatures are crossing into the real world.
Wimpole Home Farm is an 18th-century model farm on the Wimpole Estate featuring rare breeds of farm animals, historic listed buildings including a Grade II* barn, and a display of traditional farm implements. It offers an outdoor farm park experience managed by the National Trust.
18 Oct (next Sunday)
A full-day pass provides access to four talks at Emmetts Garden, covering seasonal nature, science, wellbeing and the natural world, including an opportunity to explore meteorites. Each talk is followed by a Q&A session.
Chevening offers visitors access to historic gardens set around a Palladian country house, featuring lawns, a lake, maze, parterre and woodland walks. The gardens are open seasonally with limited visitor numbers and are mostly accessible to wheelchair users. The house itself is not open to the public as it serves as a country retreat for Foreign Secretaries.
7–11 Oct, 13–18 Oct…
An exhibition about the 18th-century Grand Tour and the travels of Jane and Mary Parminter, whose journey through Europe influenced A la Ronde. Visitors can see travel souvenirs, pages from Jane’s diary and an original board game to play.
A la Ronde is an 18th-century, 16-sided historic house near Exmouth, Devon, notable for its unique octagonal design, intricate Shell Gallery, and beautifully crafted interiors. The site includes Grade II listed gardens and the adjacent Grade I listed Point-in-View chapel. Owned by the National Trust, it offers a blend of indoor and outdoor historic experiences.
Exmouth is a historic seaside resort town in Devon known for its long sandy beaches, marina, watersports, and status as the western gateway to the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site. It offers Victorian architecture, walking and cycling routes, and a vibrant town centre with leisure and cultural amenities.
9 Mar–1 Nov (another 23 days)
Visitors can explore Dunham Massey House, including its library, study, bedrooms and servants’ quarters, and discover the collection and the lives of people who lived and worked there.
Dunham Massey Hall is a Grade I listed English country house in Greater Manchester featuring historic formal gardens, a deer park, and a notable collection of Huguenot silver. The venue includes indoor experiences such as house tours and art collections, as well as outdoor experiences in its extensive gardens and deer park. It also commemorates its history as a World War I military hospital with immersive recreations. Visitors can enjoy food on-site and there are facilities and activities suitable for children.
9–12 Oct, 16 Oct–2 Nov
Follow a trail inspired by The Very Hungry Caterpillar, spotting fruits and snacks and discovering facts about the caterpillar-to-butterfly transformation. The trail includes games and activities around the stable-yard and gardens.
7 Oct, 10–14 Oct…
Visitors use the Stranger Folk mobile app to follow a guided quest through Allan Bank’s grounds, completing magical tasks and encountering creatures from British folk tales.
Allan Bank is a Grade II* listed historic villa in Cumbria, England, known for its connection to William Wordsworth and other literary figures. Located in the Lake District, it offers both indoor historical house exploration and outdoor garden experiences with red squirrels. The property is owned by the National Trust and open to the public.
7–23 Oct (another 14 days)
Join a volunteer for a guided woodland walk on Brownsea Island to look for red squirrels as they forage for food.
Brownsea Island is a large island in Poole Harbour, Dorset, managed by the National Trust with extensive nature reserves, wildlife habitats, and historical sites including Brownsea Castle. It is famed as the location of the first experimental Scout camp in 1907, and it offers outdoor activities, nature trails, and cultural events for visitors.
7 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
Families can follow an outdoor nature trail around Dyrham Park, using a booklet inspired by the children's picture book to look for clues and signs of wildlife.
Dyrham Park is a 17th century stately home with a fine baroque house, extensive ancient parkland, and beautifully maintained gardens featuring formal borders and a wildflower orchard. Visitors can explore the house's history and art collections, enjoy walking trails through the parkland, relax in the tea-room and café, and take part in family-friendly activities including a playground and guided walks.
17 Oct–1 Nov
Families can follow a trail through Attingham Park’s Walled Garden, completing challenges set by curious creatures and collecting ingredients for a pretend potion to help Kimberley the Kraken. Trail sheets include a painting set prize.
Attingham Park is a Grade I listed neoclassical stately home near Atcham, Shropshire, set within 4,000 acres including 640 acres of parkland and gardens landscaped by Humphry Repton. The estate features historical architecture, rare Georgian garden spaces, extensive deer parkland, and offers visitors both indoor tours of the mansion and outdoor exploration of the grounds, with food available onsite.
7–11 Oct, 14–18 Oct
A festival celebrating architect Sir John Vanbrugh and his legacy, presented by The Georgian Group with several historic properties. The listing gives event dates and times but directs visitors to individual event listings for details.
Seaton Delaval Hall is a Grade I listed English Baroque country house in Northumberland, designed by Sir John Vanbrugh in 1718. Visitors can explore its historic architecture, fire-damaged central block, extensive 18th-century gardens, and estate features like a stone mausoleum and orangery. The venue is owned and maintained by the National Trust and offers both indoor and outdoor experiences.
10 Oct–1 Nov (next week)
Families can use the Stranger Folk app to follow a story-led outdoor adventure around Belton Estate, completing activities to help seal a rift between the human and spirit worlds. The app is recommended for children aged 7 to 11.
8 Oct–14 Nov (another 36 days)
An exhibition in the Old Hall presents handmade quilts created by a local sewing group to support veterans, sharing the project’s craftsmanship and stories.
Wentworth Woodhouse features the largest country house in the UK with extensive gardens including ancient trees, woodland, follies, and a restored Camellia House. Visitors can explore accessible gardens, enjoy food overlooking scenic spots, and find activities for children and wellbeing.
1 Jan–23 Dec, 26–31 Dec
An exhibition at Temple Greenhouse traces the National Trust’s restoration of Croome’s parkland, from its beginnings in 1996 to plans for its future management, and explores Capability Brown’s original landscape design.
Croome Court is a historic 18th-century Neo-Palladian mansion with interiors by Robert Adam, set within extensive landscaped parkland designed by Capability Brown. Visitors can explore the grand house, its restored walled gardens, and a wide range of follies and temples throughout the park, all managed by the National Trust.
18 Oct (next Sunday)
A talk with medicinal mushroom practitioner Antonella Di Cillo exploring the history and science of medicinal mushrooms, their potential role in wellbeing, and how to choose and use them safely. The talk is followed by a Q&A.
11–13 Oct, 18–20 Oct…
Visitors begin with a short introductory talk before exploring three rooms of historic objects from Attingham’s collection inspired by India, including a conserved panoramic artwork and related prints, ceramics, books, clocks, militaria and miniatures.
Longner Hall is a Regency Gothic house designed by John Nash, set in a park landscaped by Humphrey Repton, offering guided tours of its Tudor gothic-style interiors featuring plaster fan vaulting and stained glass.
7 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
A photographic exhibition exploring the botanical paper collages of eighteenth-century artist Mary Delany, displayed in the Dunham Massey Orangery.
Tatton Park in Cheshire is a historic estate featuring a Medieval Old Hall, Neo-Classical Mansion, extensive gardens, a rare-breed farm, and a large deer park. It offers diverse experiences including indoor mansion tours, outdoor parkland exploration, and family-friendly activities like an adventure playground and farm visits.
7 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
A Pokémon-themed art trail at Hardwick featuring 30 Pikachu cards illustrated by different artists, with facts about Pikachu and an opportunity to design a trading card.
Hardwick Hall is an Elizabethan country house in Derbyshire notable for its Renaissance architecture, large windows, and rich historical associations including as a WWII parachute brigade formation site. The venue offers house tours with period furnishings and tapestries, plus extensive gardens and the ruins of the Old Hall. Visitors can enjoy a significant indoor historic experience alongside outdoor exploration of the estate grounds.
17 Oct (next Saturday)
Two volunteers bring to life the story of Countess Rivers and the events leading up to the sacking of Melford Hall during the Civil War, presenting the events from different perspectives.
Melford Hall is a historic Grade I listed stately home in Suffolk with 16th-century origins and Tudor architecture. Owned by the National Trust and open to the public seasonally, it offers a blend of both indoor historic house tours and extensive outdoor grounds hosting events.
17 Oct (next Saturday)
Meet Brother Thomas, a Cistercian monk at Tintern Abbey, and learn about the daily routines, duties, hygiene, meals and religious services of the abbey’s monks.
Tintern Abbey is a historic Gothic ruin located on the banks of the River Wye, founded in 1131 by Cistercian monks. Visitors can explore the extensive abbey grounds, enjoy views of the iconic Gothic architecture, and learn about its rich history from the exhibition on site. The venue offers good accessibility and parking facilities, with dogs allowed on short leads in ground floor areas. It remains a major cultural and historic landmark in Wales, open to the public with admission fees.
10 Oct, 17 Oct…
A free weekly 5km parkrun at Bolberry Down, where participants can run, jog or walk a route along paths with coastal views.
Bolberry Down is a scenic clifftop area in South Devon offering coastal views over the English Channel, owned by the National Trust and situated within a protected natural area.
17 Oct, 31 Oct
A beginner-level gardening course covering plant types, planting and care, propagation, cultivation, pruning and lawn care. Across two sessions, attendees take part in lecture-based teaching and indoor and outdoor practical activities.
The River Wey and Godalming Navigations offer a 20-mile navigable waterway in Surrey, featuring historic locks and scenic towpaths managed by the National Trust, with connections to other canals and a visitor centre at Dapdune Wharf showcasing historic barges.
11 Oct, 18 Oct…
A beginner guided walk around Nether Stowey explores the village associated with Samuel Taylor Coleridge, including his former home, St Mary’s Church and Castle Mount.
Coleridge Cottage is a 17th century historic cottage in Nether Stowey, Somerset, where poet Samuel Taylor Coleridge lived and wrote some of his famous works. Now a National Trust writer's home museum, it features period rooms, a garden with wildflowers, and serves as the starting point for the Coleridge Way walking trail.
7 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
Explore a fashion exhibition at Killerton featuring historic clothing and objects from its collection, alongside stories about how people dressed and lived. The exhibition also looks at how fashion history has been recorded and offers a glimpse into the care and storage of the collection.
Killerton is an 18th-century Georgian country house in Devon with extensive gardens and an estate including ancient hill forts and Roman sites, open to the public under the National Trust with historical costume displays indoors and scenic outdoor walks and landscapes.
7 Oct, 10–14 Oct…
An exhibition about printmaker Gwyneth Alban Davis and the printing business she ran from a caravan in Langdale in the late 1940s. Visitors can explore her life and work, with printing activities available for adults and children.
Wordsworth Grasmere offers a rich cultural experience exploring William Wordsworth's home, Dove Cottage, with restored gardens and woodland, an interactive museum with manuscripts, and engaging activities for all ages. Visitors can enjoy guided tours, a sensory garden, and a café serving local food amidst the scenic Lake District setting.
7 Oct–8 Nov (another 30 days)
A family trail at Polesden Lacey inspired by Moominvalley, where visitors can explore the garden and encounter characters from the Moomin stories.
Polesden Lacey is an Edwardian era country house and estate in Surrey, offering visitors a blend of indoor historical exhibits and outdoor estate walks, gardens, and woodland. Managed by the National Trust, it features fine art collections and hosts seasonal events including open-air performances.
8 Oct–9 Dec (another 61 days)
An exhibition exploring William Morris and Morris & Co.’s wallpaper designs, craftsmanship and influence on Victorian and modern interiors. Visitors can view original wallpapers, a film and a contemporary artwork, and try a hands-on pattern-tracing activity.
Watts Gallery is an arts and crafts gallery and historic house in Surrey showcasing works of Victorian painter and sculptor George Frederic Watts, with extensive woodland gardens, a historic chapel, craft activities for families, and a tea shop.
7–31 Oct (another 22 days)
A daily outdoor talk and tour at Botallack explores the ruins of the Tin Coast, sharing the history and stories of the landscape and its industry.
Botallack Mine is a historic former submarine tin and copper mine located in Cornwall, England. It features iconic cliffside engine house ruins and extensive underground tunnels beneath the Atlantic Ocean. The site is part of the Cornwall and West Devon Mining Landscape UNESCO World Heritage Site and is owned by the National Trust. Visitors can explore the striking industrial heritage setting along the South West Coast Path. The mine has cultural significance and has served as a filming location for the Poldark television series.
7 Oct–15 Nov (another 37 days)
Visitors can follow a sensory trail around the garden, moving through interactive installations inspired by the picture book and animation ‘We’re Going on a Bear Hunt’ as they search for the bear.
Cotehele is a Grade I listed medieval and Tudor manor house in Cornwall with extensive historic gardens, a working restored mill, and riverside quay, offering both indoor and outdoor historic experiences. It features original Tudor interiors, chapels, and has been used as a film location.
17 Oct–1 Nov
Visitors can explore Walmer Castle’s gardens on a scarecrow trail themed around myths and legends, featuring creations by local groups. Attendees can vote for their favourite scarecrow before leaving.
Walmer Castle in Kent is a historic 16th-century artillery fort built by Henry VIII, now managed by English Heritage. Visitors can explore its well-preserved interiors with exhibitions on military and political history, enjoy extensive formal gardens including the Queen Mother's Garden, and dine at tea rooms within the castle grounds.
Deal is a historic coastal town in Kent, England, known for its maritime heritage, Tudor castles, and vibrant arts and cultural scene. It offers a walkable town centre, museums, a pier, and a seaside resort atmosphere attracting tourists.
7–8 Oct, 11–15 Oct…
A 45-minute outdoor walk around the perimeter of Wray Castle, where a member of the Wray team shares stories about the estate’s history, notable guests and future plans.
Wray Castle is a Victorian neo-gothic castle in Cumbria with extensive grounds featuring rare trees, part of Windermere shoreline, and historic connections to Beatrix Potter. It is managed by the National Trust and offers both indoor tours and outdoor exploration, including public access to the grounds year-round.
7 Oct, 10–14 Oct…
Environmental artist Jayne Ivimey presents an exhibition responding to Felbrigg Hall’s historic collection, with a focus on birds of conservation concern through sculpture, drawing and photography.
Felbrigg Hall is a 17th-century English country house in Norfolk, renowned for its Jacobean and Georgian architecture with extensive gardens including a walled garden and orangery. It is a National Trust property featuring historic interiors and outdoor parkland with walking and cycling routes.
27 Jun–1 Nov (another 23 days)
A house-wide exhibition exploring Georgian owner John Chute’s influence on The Vyne and its interiors. Visitors can see historic decorative features and objects, including Venetian glass plates, an Italian casket and works of art.
The Vyne is a historic 16th-century Tudor country house near Basingstoke, Hampshire, showcasing a blend of Tudor and classical architecture with notable features such as the earliest classical portico in England, a Tudor chapel, an early long gallery, and a grand imperial staircase. The house is set within landscaped grounds including a lake, and is open to the public as a National Trust property.
17 Oct (next Saturday)
Join photographer Mark Johnson for an outdoor astrophotography session in the Doone Valley, learning to photograph the night sky and landscape. Participants should bring a camera and tripod; no previous experience is required.
Lorna Doone Valley in Devon is a scenic outdoor destination famous for its connection to the novel Lorna Doone. Visitors can enjoy extensive walks, a family-friendly wild play area, wildlife spotting, and amenities like a tea-room and gallery. The site also offers camping and glamping in a tranquil dark sky reserve setting.
7 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
An exhibition about Bess and her family brings together portraits and other collection objects, exploring their creation, conservation and investigation. Visitors can learn about the technical analysis used on the portraits, watch a short conservation film and follow displays through the Hall.
Stainsby Mill is a restored 19th-century flour watermill in Derbyshire, England, now operated by the National Trust within the Hardwick Hall estate. Visitors can experience both the historic indoor milling machinery and the scenic outdoor mill pond and surroundings.
18 Oct (next Sunday)
Mark Hiller of Edenbridge and District Astronomers leads a talk about meteorites, their origins and what they reveal about Earth and the wider universe. Attendees can handle real meteorites, followed by a Q&A.
7 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
Join a Croome house volunteer for a 45-minute introductory tour exploring the house’s varied history. Tours take place on the ground floor, with sessions at midday and 2pm.
17 Oct–1 Nov
A folklore-themed adventure at Staunton Harold Reservoir, where participants use the Stranger Folk app to work together on puzzles and quests involving goblins and other creatures.
Melbourne Hall & Gardens in Derbyshire offers visitors an early 18th-century English garden in the style of Le Notre, combined with a historic family home open to the public in August. The venue features elegant formal gardens, exquisite furniture, antiques, and unique garden ornaments in a picturesque setting.
7 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
Visitors can follow a trail around the Parke Estate to find six large wildlife artworks created by pupils as part of an environmental project, and learn about the project and the featured native species.
Parke is a peaceful woodland estate near Bovey Tracey, Devon, offering scenic walks, a walled garden, riverside wildlife, and a café. It's ideal for outdoor activities, dog walking, and family-friendly exploration close to Dartmoor's edge.
Bovey Tracey is a historic market town in Devon on the edge of Dartmoor, known for its listed buildings, crafts, festivals, and outdoor activities.
8 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
An exhibition of artwork by Bridgewater Primary School pupils, inspired by nature and Belsay Hall. It features sunflower and tree-themed works, alongside photography and collage created with local artist Lindsey Robinson.
Belsay Castle is a 14th-century medieval pele tower with attached manor house ruins, situated in Northumberland and managed by English Heritage, offering visitors a mix of historic architecture and garden party history.
9 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
Walls of Wonder is an exhibition of Laura Andrew’s paintings inspired by the historic wallpapers and textiles of Gunby Hall. The works reinterpret their patterns, colours and stories through contemporary art.
Monksthorpe Chapel is a unique late 17th-century chapel designed to look like a barn, set within the extensive Gunby Estate offering both historical indoor exploration of Gunby Hall and vast outdoor gardens and grounds for visitors to enjoy.
7 Oct–13 Dec (another 65 days)
Visitors explore Hill Top to spot needle-felted mice and miniature scenes inspired by Beatrix Potter’s The Tale of Two Bad Mice.
Hill Top Farm is a 17th-century historic house museum in Cumbria, England, that was once home to Beatrix Potter. Visitors can explore the preserved interior rooms furnished as in Potter's time and enjoy the surrounding garden maintained in the style of her illustrations. The venue offers a unique insight into the life and works of the beloved children's author in a picturesque Lakeland village setting.
17–31 Oct
Families can take part in Hallowtide-themed half-term play activities at Hardwick, including witches’ hat hoopla, a barefoot broomstick walk and traditional apple games. Visitors with a House and Gardens ticket can also follow the Apple Jack trail in the orchard.
18 Oct (next Sunday)
A 60-minute guided tour of the rooms where Waddesdon Manor’s servants lived and worked, including how those spaces are used today and how the collection is conserved. The tour also visits the academic apartments, Treasury and Wine Cellars.
Waddesdon Manor is a Grade I listed Neo-Renaissance country house in Buckinghamshire, England, managed by the National Trust and owned by the Rothschild Foundation. It features remarkable art collections, formal gardens, an aviary, and historic wine cellars, with public access including exhibitions, dining, and child-friendly activities.
7 Oct–15 Nov, 21–22 Nov…
This temporary exhibition explores the real people behind the film The Dig and the 1939 excavation of the Great Ship Burial. Visitors can see original film costumes, jewellery and props, read personal histories, and hear contemporary interviews connected to the site.
Sutton Hoo is a historic archaeological site of two 6th to 7th century Anglo-Saxon cemeteries near Woodbridge, Suffolk, with an impressive ship burial containing regalia, weaponry and treasures. The site offers both outdoor exploration of burial mounds and an indoor visitor centre showcasing original artefacts, replicas and exhibitions. It is a landmark for Anglo-Saxon history, art and archaeology.
3 Oct–8 Nov (another 30 days)
Families can use the Stranger Folk app to play an interactive folklore adventure around Cliveden, encountering goblins and other creatures. The event also includes scheduled children’s craft drop-ins and age-appropriate storytelling sessions.
Cliveden House is a historic Italianate mansion in Buckinghamshire managed by the National Trust with extensive formal gardens, woodlands, and themed outdoor areas. It features a richly decorated interior with notable rooms and art, a historic clock tower, and a unique outdoor maze. The estate provides diverse visitor experiences including house tours, garden walks, family-friendly activities, and dining options.
5 Sep–1 Nov (another 23 days)
An exhibition of paintings by Avebury’s 2026 Artist in Residence, Georgie Weedon, exploring themes of place, memory and connection through the ancient stone circle, surrounding landscape, and historic spaces of Avebury.
Avebury Manor & Garden is a historic National Trust property featuring a Grade I listed early 16th-century manor house with period interiors and meticulously designed formal gardens, located in the village of Avebury near the famous neolithic henge monument. The venue offers both indoor exploration of historical interiors and outdoor enjoyment of the gardens, reflecting centuries of architectural and garden design history.
7–31 Oct (another 22 days)
Photographers are invited to enter images of Gunby’s gardens and parkland, featuring plants, wildlife or nature at the historic estate. Selected winning images will be displayed at the IGPOTY 20 exhibition at Gunby in 2027.
Monksthorpe is a hamlet in East Lindsey, Lincolnshire, featuring a Grade II* listed Baptist chapel and an open air baptismal font, both cared for by the National Trust. It is notable for its historic religious architecture and outdoor heritage setting.
18 Oct (next Sunday)
A two-course carvery lunch at the Hilltop Lodge, with a choice of roast meats or a vegetarian Wellington, vegetables and a selection of desserts.
RHS Garden Hyde Hall is a large garden in Essex featuring extensive collections of plants and shrubs, wide-open views of the countryside, and accessible paths. Visitors can enjoy on-site dining at two cafés and a garden centre offering plants and gifts. Entry requires a ticket or RHS membership, with discounts for car-free travel.
7–10 Oct, 14–17 Oct…
An exhibition in the Morning Room of Dyffryn House explores the house’s history and the conservation and restoration work being carried out there.
Tinkinswood Burial Chamber is a Neolithic dolmen located in the Vale of Glamorgan, Wales, notable for its massive stone capstone and historical significance as a communal burial site dating back to around 4000 BC. Visitors can explore the outdoor stone structure and nearby stone avenues associated with ancient burial practices.
27 Sep, 8 Oct…
Bateman’s gardeners give a short talk about the Mulberry Garden Project, covering the planned changes, the historical research behind them and how the project reflects the garden during Rudyard Kipling’s lifetime. Attendees can ask questions about the project.
9 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
Families can follow an outdoor activity trail around Emmetts Garden, completing nature-based challenges to help characters Fun-Gus and Myrra protect the forest’s underground network and discover a secret code.
8–9 Oct, 12–16 Oct…
A volunteer guide leads a walk through Dyrham Park’s 270 acres of parkland, sharing information about the deer herd, the site’s history and archaeology, and how the parkland is managed.
Hamswell House is a historic 16th-century house offering exclusive marquee weddings surrounded by 50 acres of gardens and private land with panoramic valley views, featuring wheelchair access and outdoor as well as indoor spaces.
17 Oct–1 Nov
Visitors can view more than 20 decorative cabinets and writing desks from Ham House’s collection opened for display, including examples of marquetry, lacquer and veneers. From 19 to 23 October, volunteer guides may also give short pop-up talks in the Long Gallery.
Turner's House in London is a restored historic house offering guided tours, exhibitions, and accessible grounds reflecting the artist J.M.W. Turner's life and work. Visitors can explore both indoor spaces and the garden, with facilities accommodating mobility issues.
7 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
Children can follow a journey through Dunham Massey’s historic house with Speechly the Pineapple, spotting suitcases and collecting stamps in a Pineapple Passport. The indoor trail also includes a Book Nook exploring themes of travel and journeys.
12 Sep–21 Oct (another 12 days)
An outdoor exhibition presents shortlisted photography and film exploring nature, people, places and environments, including the impacts of and adaptations to climate change. The exhibition takes place throughout the garden at Coleton Fishacre.
Coleton Fishacre is a historic Arts and Crafts style country house with 24 acres of rare, exotic gardens running down to the sea in Devon. Owned by the National Trust, it offers visitors a combination of beautifully preserved interiors and scenic outdoor garden walks along the coast.
7–20 Oct (another 11 days)
An immersive exhibition in Sizergh’s Great Barn featuring work by local and national artists inspired by soil.
Sizergh Castle is a Grade I listed stately home and historic house museum in Cumbria, England, featuring Elizabethan and Georgian architecture with notable oak interiors and portraits. Visitors can explore both the castle's historic indoor spaces and its extensive outdoor gardens and estate, which includes the largest limestone rock garden held by the National Trust.
11 Oct, 18 Oct…
A guided tour of Dunster Castle’s attics explores hidden rooms and corridors and the daily lives of the servants who lived there.
Dunster Castle and Watermill in Somerset offer a rich experience combining a historic castle, working Victorian watermill, beautiful gardens, and scenic parkland with panoramic views. Visitors can explore the castle interiors, gardens with diverse plants, enjoy family-friendly activities, and visit cafés and shops on site.
7 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
An exhibition by documentary photographer Joanne Coates exploring the lives and work of women in agriculture, with photographs and landscapes from South Lakeland and other rural areas.
Levens Hall is an Elizabethan manor house in Kendal, Cumbria, known for its historic interior and extensive, world-famous topiary gardens dating from the 17th century. Visitors can explore the house and gardens, enjoy the picnic areas, cafe, and shop, with facilities suitable for children and wheelchair access.
7 Oct, 10–14 Oct…
Visitors follow a self-guided trail at the lighthouse, taking on lighthouse keepers’ daily tasks and exploring the building and grounds. The activities include climbing the lighthouse stairs and identifying plants outside.
Souter Lighthouse is the UK's first electric lighthouse, offering indoor historical exhibits and outdoor coastal walks including The Leas and Whitburn Coastal Park. Visitors can enjoy a café, bookshop, rockpooling, wildlife watching, and family events in a scenic coastal setting.
18 Oct (next Sunday)
Participants learn to create a fresh flower arrangement in a pumpkin, making an autumn-inspired centrepiece to take home. The workshop is led by the Fairview Floristry team at Grantham Arts.
Harlaxton Manor is a large Victorian-era manor house in Lincolnshire, renowned for its unique blend of Elizabethan, Jacobean, and Baroque architectural styles, with accessible interior facilities and historic tours available by appointment.
Grantham is a historic market town in Lincolnshire known for its rich heritage including the birthplace of Margaret Thatcher and education of Isaac Newton. It offers cultural attractions, historic architecture, riverside walks, and a lively town centre with shops, pubs, and restaurants.
17 Oct–1 Nov, 7–8 Nov…
Visitors follow a trail around the Workhouse to find the ingredients used in a traditional Victorian plum pudding and complete its recipe.
Langford Lowfields is a nature reserve in Nottinghamshire transformed from a quarry into a thriving wetland habitat, featuring the largest reedbed in the East Midlands. Visitors can enjoy extensive outdoor nature trails, birdwatching including rare species like Bitterns and Marsh Harriers, and a visitor welcome hut. The reserve focuses on wildlife conservation and offers scenic viewpoints and picnic areas for visitors.
6–23 Oct (another 14 days)
Explore the Visakhapatnam cabinet through an exhibition about its craftsmanship, conservation and cultural connections between India and Europe. The display includes related objects, a contemporary painting and a dress inspired by the cabinet, with sections of the painting also installed in the garden.
Kingston Lacy is a historic 17th-century Italianate country house and estate near Wimborne Minster, Dorset, featuring extensive formal gardens, parkland, and a significant fine art collection. The house offers a blend of indoor tours with finely decorated interiors and outdoor exploration of its historic gardens and grounds.
11–27 Oct (next week)
Guests can enjoy classic afternoon tea in the Thatched Barn, with sandwiches, savoury bakes, cakes, scones, tea and coffee. Gluten-free, vegan and children’s menu options are also listed.
Danbury Common is a large biological Site of Special Scientific Interest in Essex featuring heathland, woodland, ponds, and uncommon species, with areas managed by the National Trust and Essex Wildlife Trust.
10 Oct–23 Dec (next week)
Visitors use the Stranger Folk app to follow clues and take on folklore-inspired challenges while exploring Gunby’s gardens, parkland and historic landscape. The family activity follows a story about finding hidden cracks between the natural world and a world of magic.
10–11 Oct, 17–18 Oct…
Visitors can dress up in Halloween costumes, take spooky photos and enter the best-dressed competition in Bodiam Castle’s courtyard.
Bodiam Castle is a 14th-century moated castle in East Sussex, England, known for its distinctive quadrangular design with towers and battlements. Set in a landscaped environment with an ornamental moat, it showcases medieval architecture and history. The castle is a ruin open to the public under the care of the National Trust and has been featured in films and television.
10 Oct–1 Nov, 7–8 Nov…
Explore British folklore through a Halloween adventure at Snowshill Manor and Garden, using the Stranger Folk app to follow a guide and help close the gaps between the worlds. The trail runs outdoors as well as wherever the adventure takes you around the site.
Snowshill Manor is a 16th-century Cotswold manor house in Gloucestershire, owned by the National Trust and housing an extensive collection amassed by Charles Paget Wade. Visitors can explore unique indoor collections and enjoy Arts and Crafts style outdoor gardens with terraces, ponds, and more.
7 Oct, 10 Oct…
A volunteer-led tour exploring Georgian owner John Chute’s life, relationships and influence on The Vyne’s architecture and interiors. Visitors see highlights including the Neo-classical portico, historic chapel features and Tudor Oak Gallery.
Calleva Atrebatum is an ancient Roman town site in Hampshire, England, featuring extensive visible Roman town walls, a large amphitheatre, and thermal bath remains. Open to the public without charge, visitors can explore the historic outdoor ruins and earthworks that reflect its significance as a major Roman crossroads and settlement.
11 Oct, 18 Oct…
A Sunday morning walk around Wimpole Estate featuring an educational talk about the estate’s history, landscape and people.
Longstowe Hall features magnificent Edwardian gardens with seasonal flower displays and historic parkland, complemented by a squash court cafe serving local dishes. Visitors can explore expansive gardens, ancient woodland, lakes, and enjoy wheelchair accessible paths with some uneven terrain.
8 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
An exhibition of Katherine Miles’s autumn-themed willow sculptures, made using Somerset willow and foraged materials from Dartmoor. The exhibited pieces are available to buy.
RHS Garden Rosemoor in Devon offers beautiful seasonal gardens with accessible paths, a restaurant, café, and a garden centre. It welcomes dogs on specific days and supports group visits. The garden provides a diverse visitor experience both indoors and outdoors.
17 Oct (next Saturday)
Cellist Corinne Frost performs a range of music and takes requests, with the possibility of creating improvised musical portraits inspired by attendees.
The Firs is the birthplace cottage of composer Edward Elgar, located in Worcestershire. It operates as a museum showcasing Elgar's memorabilia including manuscripts, letters, and personal items, housed in the historic cottage and the modern Elgar Centre.
12 Oct–1 Nov (next week)
Follow a detective trail through Lyme House to find bugs and beasties, learn how insects affect the historic collections, and investigate damaged objects in the Long Gallery.
Lyme Park is a large estate in Cheshire managed by the National Trust, featuring the largest house in Cheshire with Elizabethan and Palladian-Baroque architecture, extensive formal gardens and deer park, and historical indoor exhibits including the Lyme Caxton Missal. It also serves as a filming location and offers food facilities on site.
9–10 Oct, 16–17 Oct…
Explore Fountains Abbey after dark, with floodlighting and projected animations bringing the ruins’ history to life. The event also includes guided tours, live choral performances and Gregorian chant.
Fountains Abbey is a historic ruined Cistercian monastery near Ripon, North Yorkshire, with architecture dating from the 12th century. It is part of Studley Royal Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, featuring landscaped gardens and industrial heritage. The site is owned by the National Trust and maintained by English Heritage, offering visitors extensive ruins, exhibitions, and scenic outdoor areas.
7 Oct–1 Nov, 7–8 Nov…
Explore Dunster Castle’s refreshed display of seventeenth-century gilt leather hangings depicting Antony and Cleopatra. The display presents new research and examines the hangings’ craftsmanship and place in art and culture.
The Butter Cross in Dunster is a historic 15th-century market cross, a Grade II* listed building and scheduled ancient monument, managed by English Heritage and the National Trust, offering visitors a glimpse into medieval market traditions in Somerset.
7 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
An exhibition at Dyrham Park presents Asafo flags from Karun Thakar’s collection, exploring textile craftsmanship, West African traditions and the global connections and colonial histories reflected in the house.
Sir Bevil Grenville's Monument is an 18th-century historic monument located on Lansdown Hill near Bath, commemorating the Royalist commander Sir Bevil Grenville, who was mortally wounded in the 1643 Battle of Lansdowne during the English Civil War. The outdoor monument stands 25 feet tall, featuring inscriptions and heraldic symbols, and is a protected Grade II* listed and scheduled ancient monument.
17 Oct, 7 Nov
This two-day workshop introduces garden design principles, including colour, light and shade, line and form, balance and contrast. Participants will consider examples at RHS Rosemoor and develop and review design ideas for their own gardens.
8–31 Oct (another 22 days)
Visitors can choose from around 30 varieties of pumpkins, squashes and gourds at Doddington’s pumpkin patch, reached by a spooky walk through the Kitchen Garden. There are also hidden golden-bottomed pumpkins to find and a giant pumpkin on display in the Farm Shop.
Doddington Gardens in Lincoln feature restored Elizabethan gardens with formal East Front and West Garden, a Wild Garden, and a productive Kitchen Garden, alongside wildlife planting and seasonal colors. The gardens offer accessible facilities, refreshments, and parking, with free access for RHS members on specified days.
7–11 Oct, 14–18 Oct…
Visitors can borrow a Nature Pack and use it to explore wildlife and the garden, including looking for creepy crawlies, listening to woodland birds and making a den. The packs are aimed particularly at children aged three and over, though adults can join in too.
Hare Hill Hall is a Georgian country house in Cheshire with an extensive National Trust garden featuring diverse rhododendrons, a walled garden, sculptures, and scenic walking paths.
7 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
Explore 30 illustrated Pikachu trading cards around Ightham Mote, learn facts about the character and design your own Pikachu card as part of an indoor and outdoor art trail.
Ightham Mote is a medieval moated manor house in Kent, England, featuring over 70 rooms arranged around a central courtyard and surrounded by a moat. It is a Grade I listed building owned by the National Trust, offering visitors a unique glimpse into medieval architecture with notable features such as a Tudor barrel-roofed chapel and extensive gardens.
5 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
A Halloween trail based on the children’s books, in which families follow the Bunnies of Hoppity Hill as they search for hidden ghosts around Mottisfont. Activities include choosing a bunny name, playing Halloween hoopla and racing broomsticks before a celebration party.
Mottisfont Abbey is a Grade I listed historic estate and former priory in Hampshire, featuring a historic house museum, extensive gardens with a renowned rose collection, riverside walks, and seasonal cultural and children's activities. Operated by the National Trust, it combines meaningful indoor and outdoor experiences with art exhibitions and family-friendly events.
17 Oct, 29 Nov…
A guided winter walk through Newtown’s meadows, saltmarsh and creeks, with opportunities to learn about over-wintering birds, identify species and pick up birdwatching techniques.
Newtown National Nature Reserve on the Isle of Wight offers a unique blend of ancient woodlands, wildflower meadows, and a picturesque harbour filled with diverse birdlife. Visitors can explore peaceful walking trails, enjoy guided historical and wellbeing walks, and take part in water activities like canoeing. The 17th-century Old Town Hall nearby adds a historical element to the natural setting. The site is dog-friendly, wheelchair accessible on certain paths, and has food available at the Visitor Point.
10 Oct–8 Nov (next week)
A digital folklore adventure at Winkworth Arboretum for children aged 7–12 and adults to play together. Using the Stranger Folk app, teams follow magical prompts and complete tasks to find the creatures and decide their fate.
Munstead Wood is an 11-acre garden in Surrey surrounding an Arts and Crafts house, famously associated with Gertrude Jekyll's influential garden design and collaboration with architect Edwin Lutyens. Currently closed for renovation, the site holds international significance in horticulture and the Arts and Crafts movement.
7 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
A year of events marking 100 years since the D’Oyly Carte family moved into Coleton Fishacre, including archive and contemporary photography exhibitions, a guided walk with the Head Gardener, and a 1920s-style Christmas party.
Brownstone and Coleton Camp in Devon offers a coastal outdoor experience featuring rugged cliffs, dog-friendly beaches, historical WWII battery, and scenic walking trails along the South West Coast Path with opportunities to enjoy wildlife and countryside.
17 Oct (next Saturday)
A performance of Robert Louis Stevenson’s Jekyll and Hyde, presented by Don’t Go Into the Cellar. Attendees can have tea or coffee and a sweet treat before watching the show in Speke Hall’s Great Hall.
Speke Hall is a Grade I listed Tudor manor house in Liverpool, renowned for its historic timber-framed architecture, ancient yew trees, and scenic views over the Mersey estuary. Owned by the National Trust, it offers visitors both indoor exploration of historic rooms and outdoor gardens with walking paths.
25 Jun–31 Oct (another 22 days)
A display in the ground-floor rooms of Scotney Castle’s Mansion House presents previously unseen photographs of the Old Castle and the Hussey family, drawn from the estate’s photography collection.
Scotney Castle in Kent is a National Trust property featuring a medieval moated manor ruins and an early Tudor Revival country house surrounded by picturesque gardens with seasonal floral displays. Visitors can explore both indoor historic house spaces and outdoor gardens with historical and natural highlights.
18 Oct (next Sunday)
Participants will take inspiration from autumn leaves and seasonal colours in the garden, then learn needle-felting techniques to create a 15 cm square artwork using British wool. Artist Julie Vickery will demonstrate the process and guide participants through composition, layering and detail.
17 Oct–1 Nov
Visitors can explore Calke Abbey’s tunnels and encounter spooky surprises, including mysterious potions, creatures and ghosts. The event is particularly suited to children aged 4–7, with a quieter first hour each day.
Foremark is a 230-acre nature reserve in Derbyshire featuring diverse woodland, heathland, and open water habitats including a reservoir. Visitors can enjoy walking trails including a wheelchair-accessible bridleway, a playground for children, outdoor family activities, and refreshments at the kiosk. Dogs are welcome on leads in designated areas.
5 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
A Halloween-themed trail around the garden, with spooky features including creepy crows and Standen bats. Visitors can explore the Spookiful Bothy and take part in creative activities in the Witchard den.
Standen is an Arts and Crafts house in West Sussex, featuring original Morris & Co. interiors and an extensive Arts and Crafts garden. Visitors can explore the historic house and surrounding gardens managed by the National Trust.
17 Oct (next Saturday)
Take a guided evening trail along the Sandilands seafront, accompanied by a bird host and featuring illuminated birds and butterflies, artworks, poetry, music and characters. The experience lasts about 45 minutes and covers approximately one mile.
Sandilands is a coastal neighbourhood in Lincolnshire featuring a former National Trust-owned links golf course, annual family tennis tournaments, and seaside attractions including beach huts and local hotels.
7 Oct, 10–14 Oct…
Tracy Hill’s site-specific art installation explores the role of fungi and lichen in shaping the environment and understanding climate change. Visitors can experience the installation in the house gallery.
Grasmere is a small lake in England's Lake District, known for its connection to poet William Wordsworth and its scenic natural surroundings. The lake allows private and hire rowing boats but prohibits powered boats. It features one island now owned by the National Trust and offers picturesque views from surrounding areas.
7 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
Visitors can follow the Mill Path from Cotehele Quay to learn about animals that hibernate over winter, with self-led craft activities around the Mill complex.
Cotehele Mill is a 19th-century Victorian watermill set in a wooded valley in Cornwall, offering visitors traditional craft workshops, baking demonstrations, and scenic outdoor areas by the Morden stream with wildlife. Dogs are welcome on the extensive paths, and food such as ice cream is available seasonally. The site blends indoor historic workshops with enjoyable outdoor nature experiences.
17–21 Oct, 24–28 Oct…
Families can follow a self-guided trail through and around the lighthouse, exploring stories of smugglers and shipwrecks through activities along the way.
Souter Lighthouse, managed by the National Trust, is a historic lighthouse showcasing pioneering electric lighting technology and maritime heritage. Visitors can explore the lighthouse tower, engine room, and keepers' quarters as well as outdoor areas including a play area for children and enjoy special demonstrations of the lamps and foghorn.
10 Oct–1 Nov (next week)
Families can follow a magical, Halloween-themed trail around Bodiam Castle, making potions, discovering spells and taking part in activities. On weekends, visitors can also enter a spooky best-dressed costume competition in the castle courtyard.
Great Dixter House & Gardens is a renowned historic house and garden in East Sussex featuring Christopher Lloyd's renowned horticultural design, accessible grounds, a café, a shop, and educational tours, suitable for visitors interested in gardening and heritage.
17 Oct (next Saturday)
A nature walk for neurodivergent families, led by ADHD coach Jane Woods, Johanna Merry and a National Trust team member. Participants can spend time outdoors together and explore ideas about nature, wellbeing and neurodiversity.
Studland is a coastal village in Dorset known for its extensive sandy beaches, nationally important heathland nature reserve, and historical World War II sites. Visitors can explore natural dune systems, enjoy wildlife watching, and walk parts of the South West Coast Path.
8–13 Oct, 15–20 Oct…
Families with children aged 7–12 can use the Stranger Folk app to follow a folklore-themed adventure at Moseley Old Hall, completing magical tasks and solving a riddle together. The adventure can be played in around 20 minutes or spread throughout the day.
Moseley Old Hall is a historic house and museum in Staffordshire, notable as a hiding place of Charles II during his escape in 1651. Visitors can explore the restored early 17th-century hall with period furniture and an enclosed 17th-century-style garden, all managed by the National Trust.
7–11 Oct, 14–18 Oct
Harvest at Beningbrough celebrates seasonal garden produce with guided tours of the walled garden, harvest displays, apple-pressing demonstrations and tastings. Some dates also feature jam and curd tastings or dried flowers for sale.
Beningbrough Hall is a large Baroque mansion near Beningbrough, North Yorkshire, featuring historic interiors, extensive gardens, and an art gallery exhibiting 18th-century portraits. The venue includes a restaurant, garden shop, and activities for families including a wilderness play area.
17 Oct–1 Nov
Explore an outdoor art installation of ten decorated doorways across the Lyme landscape, with QR codes revealing local folklore, historic customs and ghost stories. The route begins at the historic Chapel and continues through the estate grounds.
7 Oct–8 Nov (another 30 days)
Visitors can explore 30 Pikachu cards illustrated by different artists, learn facts about the character and design their own Pokémon trading card.
Theatre Royal in Bury St Edmunds is a historic Regency theatre, Grade I listed and restored to its original 1819 condition. It offers a diverse program of drama, music and comedy and is operated by the National Trust as a working theatre with a historic Georgian atmosphere.
17 Oct–1 Nov
A Halloween half-term event at Carisbrooke Castle featuring family activities including interactive storytelling, spooky games and a themed trail. Visitors can also take part in a daily fancy-dress competition.
Carisbrooke Castle is a historic motte-and-bailey castle on the Isle of Wight known for its 13th-century buildings, Elizabethan fortifications, and as the prison of King Charles I. Visitors can explore the castle's interiors, the Isle of Wight Museum, and outdoor earthworks including a well with a working donkey wheel.
Newport is the county town of the Isle of Wight, known for its historic centre, Roman villa, arts and culture venues, and river quay, offering visitors a lively market town experience with annual music festivals.
17 Oct, 24 Oct…
Join wildlife volunteers for a walk through the deer park to see the deer and learn about the Red, Sika and Fallow Deer that live at Studley Royal.
Markenfield Hall is a well-preserved medieval moated manor house in North Yorkshire, offering limited guided tours that explore historic rooms and vaulted areas. The house provides wheelchair access to the ground floor and a tranquil, authentic visit focused on history and heritage without modern distractions like cafes or shops. It is free for Historic Houses members on select days, with tours including traditional tea and cakes.
10 Oct–1 Nov (next week)
A Halloween trail based on the Bunnies of Hoppity Hill children’s books, with activities including Halloween hoopla, broomstick racing and a celebration party where children can collect a sticker.
Petworth House and Park in West Sussex features a 17th-century historic house with a renowned art collection, extensive Capability Brown landscaped gardens, and a large deer park. Visitors can explore the house interiors including historic kitchens, enjoy woodland and garden walks, and relax in the on-site café. The venue offers activities suitable for families and dog walking in designated outdoor areas.
17 Oct–1 Nov, 5–8 Nov
Visitors can follow an outdoor trail at Canons Ashby and discover spooky stories about plants such as deadly nightshade and witch hazel. The trail is aimed at families and includes a small gift at the end.
Canons Ashby House is a Grade I listed Elizabethan manor house located in Northamptonshire, featuring notable Jacobean plasterwork, historic family interiors, formal gardens, and the remains of a medieval priory church. It combines rich history with architectural and artistic heritage.
7 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
An exhibition at Castle Drogo revealing unusual objects kept in the house’s collection, including items requiring special storage and large objects displayed in custom-built frames.
Castle Drogo is the last castle built in England, located in Devon. It is a Grade I listed country house designed by Edwin Lutyens, featuring a mix of medieval and Tudor revivalist architecture. Visitors can explore the castle's interiors, formal gardens, and enjoy facilities including a café and shop provided by the National Trust.
11 Oct, 18 Oct…
A tour at Treasurer’s House explores the lives and legends of some of its former residents, tracing the history of the house and its connections to York.
Treasurer's House is a Grade I listed historic house museum in York, showcasing architecture from the 12th century onwards with significant restoration by Frank Green. Owned by the National Trust, it offers tours including cellar and attic, features Roman archaeological remains, and a café and garden accessible to visitors. The house is notable for its reputed Roman soldier ghost sightings.
17 Oct–1 Nov
Families can follow an autumn trail around Greenway’s garden, discovering facts about poisonous plants and wildlife and taking part in ghoulish games. Pumpkins guide the route, and trail sheets are available from Visitor Reception.
Greenway House is a historic Georgian estate on the River Dart in Devon, once home to Agatha Christie. Visitors can explore the house, riverside gardens with diverse plants, and the Barn Gallery showcasing local art, with connections to Christie's literary legacy.
7 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
Join a volunteer guide for a one-hour tour of Fountains Abbey’s monastic ruins, exploring the abbey’s history and the daily routines of the monks who lived there.
7 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
Stranger Folk is an app-based adventure game exploring British folklore at Fen Cottage and Wicken Fen. Follow the Crone’s directions and investigate places where mysterious creatures are said to be crossing into the real world.
Wicken Fen National Nature Reserve in Cambridgeshire is one of Europe's most important wetlands, offering visitors a rich outdoor experience with diverse wildlife and plants, accessible boardwalk trails, family activities, and facilities including a café and visitor centre.
7 Oct–8 Nov (another 30 days)
Visitors use the Stranger Folk app to follow an interactive folklore adventure around Woodchester Park, guided by the Crone and completing challenges to close a rift between worlds. The activity can take around 20 minutes or be extended into a day-long walk.
Woodchester Mansion is a unique unfinished Victorian Gothic house set in a beautiful Cotswold valley, offering visitors insight into its architectural construction and bat colonies, with accessible grounds and private tours available. It combines an indoor exploration of the mansion with outdoor parkland and picnic areas.
7 Oct–1 Nov, 4–8 Nov…
Visitors can explore National Trust places with their dog and collect stamps in a Pooch Passport. Collecting five stamps earns dog treats, and ten stamps earns a pin badge.
The Alhambra Shopping Centre is Barnsley's main indoor shopping venue featuring 41 shops, a mix of major chains and independent stalls, with convenient location next to Barnsley Market.
7 Oct–8 Nov (another 30 days)
Visitors can take part in mindful drawing and sketching in the Discovery Room, contribute chalk artwork on the site’s walks, or borrow a sketching bag to use while exploring Sutton Hoo.
Kyson Hill in Woodbridge, Suffolk, offers grassy slopes, specimen trees, and views of the estuary, ideal for walking and relaxation in an outdoor natural setting. It features walking trails through woodland, mudflats, and estuarine ecosystems and allows dogs on leads. The site is accessible via footpath from Woodbridge Railway Station and has benches for resting, but the terrain is uneven and not wheelchair accessible.
8 Oct–8 Nov (another 30 days)
Celebrate Diwali at Bateman’s with displays of Indian objects, artworks and decorations, family crafts, and opportunities to browse Indian gifts and books. The event also highlights Rudyard Kipling’s connections with India.
7 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
Join a volunteer-led walk along the historic route taken by the Hoare family and their guests, and hear about the history of Stourhead and its landscape garden. Tours last approximately 1 to 1.5 hours.
Alfred's Tower is a 49-meter high folly tower located in Somerset, England, commemorating King Alfred the Great and historic events from the 9th century. It features a viewing platform accessible by spiral staircase and offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The tower is part of the National Trust and stands on the historic Stourhead Estate.
17 Oct–10 Nov
Children aged 3–11 can follow a Halloween trail with six bat-themed challenges, learning about British bat species and collecting facts to complete a set of cards. The completed cards can be taken home to make a Battle of the Bats game.
18 Apr–13 Nov (another 35 days)
An exhibition exploring the creative life and legacy of Georgiana, Lady Chatterton, through words, sound and images, including an art exhibition curated by visitors. The event also includes a special opportunity to meet Poet in Residence Beth Calverley and contribute to an audio piece on 18 April.
Packwood House is a historic 16th-century Tudor manor house near Lapworth, Warwickshire, featuring fine period furniture and tapestries, alongside its renowned yew tree garden with symbolic topiary. Visitors can explore both the indoor historic house and the extensive outdoor gardens managed by the National Trust.
3 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
Follow a garden trail at Stourhead to discover moth species, collect clues and build a fact file about these often-misunderstood insects.
Bradley House is a traditional estate and family home of the Dukes of Somerset for over 300 years, featuring a stone house and ancient church in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, open to visitors by appointment only.
23 May–1 Nov (another 23 days)
A display at Saltram brings together two companion portraits by Joshua Reynolds and explores the story of ‘Jersey’, an enslaved boy depicted in one of them. Visitors can encounter historical research and conservation insights through audio, scent and touch.
Saltram House is a well-preserved Georgian country house near Plympton, Devon, featuring exquisite interiors by Robert Adam and a fine art collection including works by Joshua Reynolds. The estate includes expansive gardens and parkland, offering both indoor and outdoor visitor experiences.