Staffordshire is a historic and culturally rich county in the West Midlands known for its pottery heritage, scenic countryside, castles, and family-friendly attractions.
29–31 Oct
A guided evening tour of Shugborough Mansion shares spooky stories connected with the historic Hall. Ticket holders can then have cream tea or a hot or cold drink with a Halloween-themed biscuit in the Mansion tearoom.
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.
7–8 Nov
Families can celebrate Diwali at Moseley Old Hall by making a traditional diya lamp from air-dried clay. The activity takes place in the Cowshed.
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.
11 Oct (this Sunday)
A fair in the grounds of Dudmaston Hall featuring around 30 local stalls selling handmade art, crafts and food. Visitors can browse the stalls and meet local makers.
Dudmaston Hall is a 17th-century country house and estate in Shropshire featuring historic architecture, extensive gardens, parkland, woodlands, lakes, and a distinguished collection of modern art. Visitors can explore both indoor historic interiors and outdoor landscaped grounds within a traditional English country estate setting.
11 Oct (this Sunday)
A hands-on fused-glass workshop led by artist Suzie Lavender, with morning and afternoon sessions focused on making festive decorations. Participants learn glass-fusing techniques and create pieces to be kiln-fired after the workshop.
24–31 Oct
Visitors follow a trail through Ilam Park exploring millions of years of history, from ancient landscapes and prehistoric creatures to historic events. A trail sheet provides clues, questions and challenges, and each trail includes a prize.
Ilam Park is a 158-acre National Trust country park in Staffordshire featuring the historic Ilam Hall, a Gothic Revival style Grade II* listed building now used as a youth hostel, set amid ancient woodland and scenic river walks.
26 Oct
An evening of M.R. James ghost stories performed by Jonathan Goodwin, with the audience choosing which tales are told.
Biddulph Old Hall is a historic Elizabethan mansion and medieval hunting lodge with guided tours covering its rich history, gardens, ruins, and former uses as an artist's home and Buddhist retreat. Visitors can explore both the house interior and extensive grounds, enjoying seasonal gardens and refreshments.
Biddulph is a picturesque market town in Staffordshire Moorlands known for its historic sites including Mow Cop Castle, Biddulph Grange gardens, and scenic valley setting between Mow Cop and Biddulph Moor.
29 Nov, 1 Dec…
Quieter, reduced-capacity sessions at Shugborough Mansion are designed for visitors who may find regular opening hours overwhelming because of sensory processing difficulties. Visitors can explore with resources including visual stories, sensory maps, a handling collection, discovery bags and ear defenders.
Shugborough Hall is a Grade I listed historic stately home and museum in Staffordshire, England, featuring opulent 18th-century interiors, a working model farm, rare farm animals, and notable follies with classical and Chinese themes in extensive grounds.
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.
29 Oct
A family guided walk exploring the geology, archaeology and landscape west of Ilam, with stops to learn about features such as a limestone quarry and a Bronze Age burial mound. The walk covers about five miles and includes views of Thorpe Cloud, Bunster Hill and Dove Dale.
Tissington Hall is a historic ancestral home dating back to 1609, offering guided tours of the house and gardens including a large family library and extensive parkland. The venue provides accessible facilities, a cafe, and opportunities to see fine panelling and art collections, making it a distinctive heritage experience in Derbyshire's Peak District.
29–31 Oct, 5–7 Nov
Participants can drop in to make a traditional Diya lamp from air-dried clay as part of a Diwali celebration with the local community.
JW Evans Silver Factory in Birmingham is a preserved 19th-century historic silver factory showcasing original tools and equipment. The venue offers guided tours only on Fridays with advance booking. It features indoor exhibits and a permanent exhibition accessible by ramp, located in the Jewellery Quarter known for its jewellery and silver production. Parking is available on-road and nearby with charges, but the factory has limited wheelchair access.
26 Oct, 28 Oct…
Children and families can decorate and take home a magic wand during a drop-in craft session at Cheshire Cottage.
Biddulph Grange Garden is a Victorian formal garden featuring themed garden rooms with international plants, a geological gallery, and distinctive areas like the Chinese Garden and Egyptian Court, offering an adventurous outdoor experience for all ages.
30–31 Oct
Storyteller Peter Chand presents an evening of ghost stories from South Asia and beyond, exploring themes of light and dark. The performance takes place in the Great Parlour and includes jumps and lighting effects.
27 Sep
Join a guided walk at Ilam Park where an experienced guide leads you through the history of the park, including the story of Ilam Hall, with a short walk on relatively flat ground through the parkland and Italian Gardens. The event is suitable for adults and includes a voucher for a discount at the Ilam Tea Room and free car parking on the day of the walk.
18 Jul–6 Sep
Earthly Delights is a new art installation at Ilam Park celebrating the 200 year anniversary of Ilam Hall. It features a large dome-shaped structure inspired by lost glasshouses, with plants, sculptures, and natural materials, along with a free trail of smaller artworks across the park inviting visitors to explore its landscape and history. The installation is available from 18 July to 6 September 2026 on the lawn in front of Ilam Hall.
27 Sep
Join textile artist Lily Purslow at Wightwick Manor for a unique embroidery workshop based on the William Morris design, 'Dove and Rose'. The workshop provides expert tuition on decorative embroidery techniques, focusing on creativity and craftsmanship to create a heritage-inspired piece. It is suitable for confident beginners or those with some embroidery experience. The event includes admission to the site, refreshments, and all materials, and it runs from 10:30am to 3:30pm with a 1-hour break. The workshop takes place in a meeting room above the shop which is not wheelchair accessible. It is exclusive to Wightwick Manor and Gardens and suitable for adults only.
20 Oct–16 Nov
A display of hand-knitted poppies in the Memorial Garden honours people connected with the Mander factory who died in the First and Second World Wars. Visitors can also attend short remembrance services beside the war memorials on 8 and 11 November.
22 Nov
Join in preparing and stirring Moseley Old Hall’s Christmas pudding as part of a recreation of Stir Up Sunday. The event also includes short talks and demonstrations.
31 Aug–7 Sep
Wearing Feelings: Childhood in Black and Bright is a major house exhibition exploring children's fashion over the past 150 years, showing how children's clothing evolved from restrictive to more comfortable styles reflecting greater emotional freedom in childhood.
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.
25 Oct, 22 Nov…
A monthly 10k trail run through Comer Woods, with a two-loop route offering runners the choice of a 4km or 10km course. The December run is a festive Santa Run.
14–15 Nov
A three-hour Christmas wreath-making class led by a Wightwick Manor gardener. Participants use foraged evergreens, dried flowers, spices and fruit to make a natural wreath to take home.
29–31 Oct
Children and families can take part in a Halloween craft session at Shugborough Estate, making their own flying bat.
7 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
An exhibition of recently conserved watercolours explores Thomas Anson’s vision for Shugborough Estate, including paintings of its monuments by Nicholas Dall, Moses Griffith and Edward Jones.
12 Nov
Rukhsana Sardar discusses her move from the fast-fashion industry to sustainable upcycling, sharing ideas for reusing and rethinking clothing and textiles. Attendees can ask questions and bring an upcycling project for advice.
Mailbox Birmingham is a mixed-use development in Birmingham city centre featuring luxury shopping, BBC studios with an accessible public area, restaurants by the canal, office spaces, hotels, and a cinema, offering a modern indoor urban experience.
11 Sep
A fused glass workshop led by Wolverhampton glass artist Suzie Lavender at Moseley Old Hall. Attendees can join morning and/or afternoon sessions to create festive glass mobiles and glass gift creations. The workshop is suitable for beginners and includes materials, safety equipment, tools, and refreshments. The event includes kiln firing of creations followed by collection or postage later.
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.
25–29 Oct, 31 Oct–1 Nov
Visitors can explore Dudmaston to spot signs of autumn using a spotter sheet, with sessions to make hedgehogs or squirrels from natural materials on selected days.
Dudmaston Hall in Shropshire offers a historic family home with modern art galleries, expansive gardens featuring outdoor sculptures, traditional parkland, and woodland trails. Visitors can enjoy indoor and outdoor attractions including a tea-room, second-hand bookshops, and family-friendly play areas.
24 Oct–1 Nov
Explore autumn colours and discover what wildlife does during the season on a spotter trail around Little Moreton Hall’s gardens and outdoor spaces. Hint boards guide visitors along the trail.
Little Moreton Hall is a historic 16th-century half-timbered moated manor house near Congleton, Cheshire. It features well-preserved Tudor architecture, extensive gardens, and a famous Long Gallery. Visitors can explore the restored house interiors, enjoy the gardens, and dine in the on-site restaurant, making it a comprehensive historic and outdoor experience.
31 Aug–30 Sep
Sam Plants a Sunflower: Story Trail is a free story trail event around the Walled Garden and Farmyard at Shugborough Estate, inspired by the book 'Sam Plants a Sunflower'. Attendees can explore the story of Sam learning to plant sunflowers through a series of activities along a step-free route. No booking is needed and normal venue admission prices apply.
23–24 Oct, 29–30 Oct
An after-dark Halloween experience at the Rock Houses, with illuminated surroundings, wand-making, a meeting with the White Witch, spells and eerie storytelling by a fire.
20 Nov–24 Dec, 27 Dec 2026–3 Jan 2027
Wightwick Manor is decorated for a traditional Victorian Christmas, with candlelit trees, greenery and decorations inspired by the Morris family and their contemporaries. Visitors can also look for knitted snowmen hidden around the rooms.
14 Oct (next Wednesday)
Join Shugborough’s house and collections team for a behind-the-scenes tour of the Mansion, with access to normally restricted areas including the state bedroom, cellars and basement. The tour also explores conservation work on the building and its collection.
22 Sep
Don't Go into the Cellar presents 'Wilde about Oscar', an original one-man stage play performed by award-winning actor Jonathan Goodwin. The show takes place in the Great Parlour at Wightwick Manor and Gardens and revolves around stories related to Oscar Wilde. The event requires booking and tickets cost £20 each. It runs indoors with a start time of 7:30pm on 22 September 2026.
25 Oct
A guided Halloween walk at Clent Hills, where volunteer guides share spooky tales and legends of the area while leading a three-mile route with seasonal surprises.
11 Dec
Dogs can explore the Rock Houses, meet Father Christmas, pose for a festive photograph and receive a Christmas treat. Festive activities take place indoors and outdoors, with accessories and dog-friendly ice cream also available.
Hagley Hall is a restored eighteenth-century Palladian mansion set in picturesque parkland featuring notable follies. Visitors can enjoy guided tours of the house, explore the extensive grounds, and use onsite facilities such as a cafe, shop, and free parking. It represents a significant heritage site combining architectural and landscape excellence.
Stourbridge is a historic market town in the West Midlands, England, known for its glass-making heritage, cultural festivals, and accessible transport links including two railway stations.
25 Nov
Participants create nature-inspired artwork using pre-prepared pressed flowers in a workshop led by Justine from The Lilac Tree. No prior experience is needed, and materials are provided.
28–29 Nov, 4–7 Dec…
Explore Christmas traditions at Moseley Old Hall across the 17th century, the 1940s and the 1980s, with period decorations and stories about the families who lived there. Visitors can wander at their own pace or join an informal house tour when volunteers are available.
28 Oct
Children aged 10 and over can learn broom-making techniques and create and decorate a broomstick using natural materials in this Halloween-themed workshop.
26–30 Oct
Families can take part in a different Halloween-themed craft each day, making items such as a wool-wrapped broom, clay creatures, ghost decorations, a pumpkin sun catcher or a hand puppet.
9 Oct
Join a guided three-mile walk at Clent Hills through woodlands and hills, exploring the countryside’s nature, scenery and history.
Clent Hills offers a beautiful outdoor experience with extensive walking trails, panoramic views, and a family-run café. It is dog-friendly, wheelchair accessible via specific paths, and provides activities suitable for children, with a rich natural and historical environment.
4 Mar, 1 Apr…
A monthly, gentle-paced group walk through the White Peak countryside, intended to support wellbeing and confidence in walking. Tea and filter coffee are provided indoors at the Coach House after the walk.
31 Aug
Scavenger Hunt - Summer of Play at Dudmaston is an outdoor sensory trail event designed for children to explore Dudmaston Hall grounds by connecting with their senses through a scavenger hunt. It is suitable for all ages and requires no advance booking, though normal admission charges to the venue apply.
26 Sep
A special interest lecture titled ‘No Friend Like a Sister’ exploring the friendships, family ties, and networks that supported Pre-Raphaelite women, presented by Professor Serena Trowbridge. The event is a talk held in the Meeting Room above the Old Manor Shop at Wightwick Manor and Gardens, discussing the connections and support systems of women in the Pre-Raphaelite movement.
11 Oct, 13 Oct
A guided tour of society photographer Patrick Lichfield’s apartment, led by the house and collections team. Hear stories about his life and learn how the apartments and their collection have changed over the years.
19–20 Dec
A festive weekend in Comer Woods featuring family activities, creative crafts, live music, a pop-up bookshop and a community celebration. Sunday includes a Trust10 Santa Run, a local dog charity and Santa Paws activities.
11 Oct, 13 Oct…
A volunteer-guided wellbeing walk through Comer Woods, offering gentle exercise and time to enjoy the woodland and chat with other walkers. Participants can visit the café for tea and cake afterwards.
Comer Woods is a large working woodland within the Dudmaston Estate in Shropshire offering outdoor activities such as walking, running, cycling, and natural play for families. The site is dog-friendly, accessible with powered mobility vehicle hire, and features a takeaway café with seating. It hosts various family-focused events during the summer and has free access with parking charges for non-members.
5–6 Dec, 11–13 Dec…
A Christmas light display at Biddulph Grange Garden, with illuminated garden features, a Christmas sleigh, games and Father Christmas on selected evenings. Visitors can follow a route through the garden and warm up with a hot drink in the Drawing Room.
Biddulph Grange is a National Trust Victorian landscaped garden in Staffordshire, England featuring a variety of themed garden areas including Chinese, Egyptian, and Italian sections. It offers year-round plant interest and is particularly child-friendly with tunnels and a quiz trail.
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.
15–21 Feb
A self-led family birdwatching trail through Ilam Park and Dovedale, with activities and bird facts to help participants spot birds and listen to their songs. Trail sheets are available from the bookshop.
10 Oct, 17 Oct…
A volunteer-led talk in the Chinese Garden explores its history, design, different elements and sources of inspiration.
Biddulph Grange Garden is a Grade I listed Victorian garden featuring themed garden rooms with exotic plants, sculptures, and a unique geological gallery. Visitors can explore outdoor gardens including the spectacular Chinese garden and the oldest stumpery, plus enjoy indoor exhibits and a tea-room. The garden offers family-friendly woodland play and guided tours.
14 Oct (next Wednesday)
An actor performs a one-person stage adaptation of Mary Shelley’s Gothic horror novel Frankenstein, portraying Victor Frankenstein and other characters in the Great Parlour.
30 Oct
Join a family guided walk along Ilam Park’s paths at dusk, hearing local ghost stories and tales from the past while searching for spooky creatures. Candles are provided for the walk.
22 Nov
An indoor festive stage show featuring Jonathan Goodwin as Sherlock Holmes, with a theatrical adaptation of Conan Doyle’s “The Adventure of the Blue Carbuncle” and other Christmas-themed material.
Mow Cop Castle is an 18th-century folly built to resemble medieval ruins, located on the border between Cheshire and Staffordshire. It stands on a historic ridge known for ancient quarrying and offers scenic views. The site is owned by the National Trust and is free to visit.
13–17 Sep, 20 Sep
Heritage Open Days at Dudmaston Hall in Shropshire offer free entry to a family home and country mansion set within 3,000 acres of Shropshire countryside. Visitors can explore traditional rooms and contemporary galleries displaying British Modern Art, enjoy the garden and surrounding scenery, and visit the tea-room and bookshops. No booking is needed, and the event is family suitable.
5–24 Dec, 27 Dec 2026–3 Jan 2027
Follow a self-led family trail through the winter gardens to discover the histories behind Christmas decorations and traditions, with puzzles and activities along the way.
31 Oct
Visitors can wander around the Rock Houses after dark to see them illuminated, with extra Halloween scares and surprises on this special evening. The event is recommended for adults and children aged 12 and over.
10 Nov
A one-day conference exploring the Rossetti family, their creative relationships and wider Pre-Raphaelite circles through talks and discussion. The programme includes morning and afternoon talks, a Q&A, and time to explore the related exhibition.
12 Dec, 23 Dec
Quieter, pre-bookable sessions at Shugborough Mansion for visitors who may find regular opening hours overwhelming because of sensory processing difficulties. Visitor numbers are reduced, and flashing lights and noises are minimised.
23 Mar, 26 May…
These guided rag-craft workshops explore rag rugging, a traditional skill used by people who lived at the Rock Houses. Participants learn the technique and make a rug or wreath to take home.
Kinver Edge is a historic heath and woodland escarpment on the Staffordshire-Worcestershire border, featuring England's last inhabited rock houses open for tours, Iron Age hillforts, and scenic walking and biking trails through diverse natural habitats.
24 Oct
An adult beginners’ needle-felting workshop where participants learn basic techniques and make a felted bat, with the option to add a hanging string.
4 Dec
A Victorian theatre performance in which actor Alfred St John Merrimoon tells unsettling seasonal stories of winter ghosts and Christmas horrors.
5–6 Dec, 12–13 Dec…
Children can meet Father Christmas and Mother Christmas in the Rock Houses, share their Christmas wishes and receive a gift. The visit includes seasonal activities such as making reindeer food, with activities taking place outside.
5–24 Dec, 26–31 Dec…
Follow an outdoor woodland trail to see Christmas trees decorated by local schools and community groups. Visitors can also play family games at Heath Barn and write a wish to hang on the wishing tree.
31 Aug–6 Sep
Summer of Play 2026 at Ilam Park is a free outdoor event celebrating playful activities in the countryside for all ages with various games and activities including Frisbee Golf, Mud Kitchen, and a rainbow ribbon Maze, running during summer holidays with drop-in sessions.
16 Oct (next Friday)
A photography workshop at Wightwick Manor and Gardens for learners and intermediate photographers, with guidance and support to develop their photography skills. Participants should bring their own camera.
24 Oct–30 Nov
A self-guided Halloween trail around Ilam Park, where visitors follow the Old Crone’s audio messages, find clues and complete three magical activities to help restore balance to the park.
1 Sep, 30 Oct…
Dovedale Big Litter Pick is an outdoor community event where participants join rangers and volunteers to pick litter along the Dovedale valley in the National Nature Reserve to help keep the area clean and enjoyable for nature and people.
2–3 Sep
Mystery Rooms: The Queen's Cure is a puzzle-solving event where participants step into a Victorian surgery to decode clues and find the cure for Queen Adelaide, inspired by her historic visit to The Children’s Country House. The event involves solving a series of puzzles in a challenging and immersive environment suitable for children aged 8 and above, supervised by adults.
26–27 Sep
Living History Weekend with the Sealed Knot at Moseley Old Hall: The King's Escape is a two-day historical reenactment event on 26 and 27 September 2026. It features musket and pike drills, living history displays, interactive activities for children, and storytelling about King Charles II's escape after the Battle of Worcester in 1651. The event brings to life 17th-century life and historical moments through immersive demonstrations across the site, suitable for families and history enthusiasts.
24 Oct–8 Nov
A colourful installation by local artist Kanj Nicholas reimagines Diwali through design, combining Indian textiles, bold colours and traditional motifs inspired by Wightwick Manor. It draws on work produced through printing workshops with the local community.
12 Sep
Children's Book Festival by Imaginarium Creations is a family-friendly festival celebrating books, stories and imagination for children aged 5 to 10 and their families. The event includes immersive storytelling, creative workshops, author and illustrator meet-and-greets, family yoga, music making, and a pop-up bookshop. The festival takes place at The Children’s Country House at Sudbury with activities both indoors and outdoors.
30 Nov
A fused-glass workshop led by artist Suzie Lavender, with morning and afternoon sessions to create snowmen, snowflakes and festive decorations. Participants’ work will be kiln-fired after the workshop.
12 Sep
Birmingham Heritage Week - Open Day offers free entry to Birmingham Back to Backs to explore historic houses and a courtyard, with volunteers sharing the history and an exhibition by Birmingham City University students showcasing local culture. Booking is recommended. The event is suitable for children and includes indoor and outdoor activities.
Birmingham Back to Backs is a historic court of 19th-century back-to-back houses in Birmingham, preserved and restored as a museum showcasing working-class industrial town housing with guided tours across different eras.
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.
4 Oct
Orchard Day at Dudmaston Hall features apple pressing in the orchard where visitors can watch the garden team press apples grown on site. The event also offers access to the Orchard Tea Room for autumnal treats and an apple stall for buying fruit. This outdoor event is free for National Trust members and under 5s, but normal admission charges apply for non-members. It welcomes children and allows dogs on leads. The orchard and paths are wheelchair accessible.
21–23 Nov, 27–30 Nov…
The Children’s Country House is transformed into an immersive retelling of Hans Christian Andersen’s The Snow Queen, with visitors following the story through decorated rooms and scenes inspired by Gerda’s adventure.
28–29 Nov, 5–6 Dec…
Families can enjoy a festive breakfast at Ilam Park, followed by a visit from Santa and activities including crafts, colouring, a photo opportunity and a Christmas trail in the parkland.
7–11 Oct, 14–18 Oct…
Visitors can use a free spotter guide to explore the wall paintings and protective marks at Little Moreton Hall, learning about Tudor interior design and how conservators care for historic paintings.
Rode Hall & Gardens offers a historic landscape designed by Humphry Repton featuring formal gardens, woodland walks, a rock garden, and unique plant collections including snowdrops and bluebells, alongside a kitchen garden supplying produce to onsite tearooms and markets.
17 Jul–7 Sep
Summer of Play at The Children's Country House at Sudbury offers family-friendly activities including a giant Marble Run, active challenges, imaginative play, natural construction activities, a Mystery Rooms problem-solving experience, and crafting sessions related to a children's fashion exhibition.
16 Oct (next Friday)
Participants can learn fused-glass techniques with artist Suzie Lavender in a morning session making festive decorations, an afternoon session designing a platter or curved piece, or both. The finished work is kiln-fired after the workshops and can be collected later or posted.
20 Oct, 30 Oct
Join the property's Head Gardener on a guided walk across the surrounding parkland to explore the 18th-century Deercote, its history and nearby nature conservation projects.
31 Aug
Summer of Play: Tudor day of Play is a self-led family trail event where visitors can move, play, and explore Tudor games and playful pastimes from 500 years ago outdoors at Little Moreton Hall. No booking is needed to participate, but normal admission charges to the venue apply.
Rode Hall & Gardens is an early 18th-century country house with a notable collection of porcelain and extensive gardens set in a historic Repton landscape. Visitors can explore the house interiors, beautiful woodlands, formal gardens, and a large walled kitchen garden that supplies produce for a farmers' market and tearooms.
24 Oct–1 Nov
Pick up a spotter sheet from Heath Barn and explore Comer Woods, looking for signs of autumn wildlife and seasonal colours. The self-guided activity is designed for families and can be repeated as the season changes.
24–26 Oct, 29 Oct–1 Nov
Follow an outdoor Halloween-themed trail at Kinver Edge and the Rock Houses, looking for hidden creatures and answering True or False questions for a small prize.
12–13 Sep
Heritage Open Days at Moseley Old Hall is a free event on 12 and 13 September 2026 where visitors can explore the 17th-century farmhouse, learn about King Charles II's dramatic escape, meet the Lace Guild with lacemaking demonstrations, and engage in traditional crafts related to wool. The event includes knowledgeable guides and costumed interpreters, children's craft activities, and access to the grounds and tea room.
7 Oct–8 Nov (another 30 days)
An exhibition at Wightwick Manor explores the artistic and literary legacy of the Rossetti family and their circle, featuring new acquisitions, rediscovered drawings and rarely seen works. It examines the family’s relationships, upbringing and creative work.
4–6 Dec, 11–13 Dec…
Misrule at Yule brings festive Tudor-themed mischief to Little Moreton Hall, featuring the Lord of Misrule. Merrie Noyse, Piva and the Jesters perform on Saturdays and Sundays, with performances throughout the day.
29 Nov
Participants can learn fused glass-making techniques with artist Suzie Lavender and create festive glass decorations or glass gifts in a beginner-friendly workshop. The work is kiln-fired after the session and can be collected later or posted.
25 Oct
Visitors can explore the Rock Houses at their own pace after dark, seeing them illuminated in a calm setting without Halloween activities, performers or jump scares.
7 Nov
A full-day needle-felting workshop with textile artist Hannah Dodd, where participants learn dry felting techniques and create a three-dimensional felted hare. Materials, tea, coffee and sweet treats are provided.
7–8 Oct, 11–15 Oct…
An exhibition about diplomat and collector Sir George Labouchere, exploring his support for modern art and the artists he collected while serving in Stockholm, Nanking and Madrid. Visitors can view artworks and learn about his collecting and legacy at Dudmaston.
3 Oct
Half-day needle felting workshop with artist Hannah Dodd at Ilam Park, where participants learn dry needle felting techniques to create 3D felted fungi. Materials, teas, coffees, and cakes provided. Open to members and non-members. Held in an accessible indoor events space suitable for adults.
5–6 Dec, 12–13 Dec…
Children who need a quieter or extended visit can meet traditional Father Christmas in his Rock House grotto, chat with him, receive a gift and have their photo taken. Activities take place outside the grotto as well.
28 Nov 2026–3 Jan 2027
Families can follow an outdoor Christmas trail around Ilam Park, finding six stations and taking part in trail clues and seasonal games.
25 Oct
Children can gather around a campfire for spooky stories, play ghoulish games and make Halloween-inspired crafts in the woodland at Moseley Old Hall.
12 Sep
Heritage Open Day at Little Moreton Hall offers free entry to explore this unique Tudor house and its gardens, featuring a children's spotter activity to find the Wandering Wolves from the Moreton Family Crest.
15 Oct (next Thursday)
A one-man performance of the classic penny dreadful tale of Sweeney Todd, featuring an audience with the infamous Demon Barber of Fleet Street. The show is not a musical.
30 Aug–13 Sep
Summer of Play at Biddulph Grange Garden is a series of outdoor activities including sports and games on the tennis lawn and creative play throughout the school summer holidays. The event occurs on select days in late August and September 2026, offering family-friendly outdoor engagement without the need for booking but admission to the garden applies.
27–28 Oct
Families and community members can learn how to plant young trees through demonstrations and hands-on planting at Hampton Loade, helping create new woodland as part of the Community Forest project.
9 Dec
Jonathan Goodwin performs as Charles Dickens in a one-man rendition of *A Christmas Carol*, the ghost story about hauntings and redemption.
25 Nov, 9 Dec…
Harpist Ann Lombardi performs festive music in the Great Parlour, with performances at intervals during the day for visitors to listen to as part of their Manor visit.
1–3 Dec
A festive workshop led by the Biddulph Grange gardening team, where attendees make a Christmas wreath using foliage from the garden. Lunch and a hot drink are included.
31 Aug
Marble Run by Wild Rumpus is a playful, gigantic upcycled marble run event at The Children’s Country House at Sudbury, featuring a construction made from broomsticks, lampshades, piping, and bamboo. Attendees can pick a cedar ball and try to roll it to the bottom, with the runs set at various heights including some lower level tubes. The event is aimed at children and families and requires normal venue admission.
1 Nov
NeuNoir presents an intimate reading of Algernon Blackwood’s supernatural tale *The Listener*, about a lodger whose cheap London rooms become increasingly unsettling. The story is read by Richard Usher.
The Roundhouse in Birmingham is a rare Victorian industrial heritage site featuring a crescent-shaped former depot and stables, now hosting tours including kayaking, cycling, and walking on the adjacent canal, along with business enterprise spaces.
19–20 Sep
Heritage Open Days at Wightwick Manor and Gardens is a free open weekend event on 19 and 20 September 2026, featuring a major exhibition exploring the Rossetti family's artistic and literary legacy alongside the history of the Mander family. Visitors can explore the Victorian manor, gardens, and participate in tours about the home's heritage and art collections.
15 Oct, 19 Nov
Join the Forest Garden Team for a walking talk at Arcadia, with a preview of the developing garden and an introduction to forest gardening principles.
31 Aug
Bugs and Beyond! - Summer of Play in Comer Woods is a free drop-in nature event where children can explore and learn about bugs living in Comer Woods. No booking is required and attendees can join in on the day to search, spot and learn about these tiny creatures in the outdoors.
24 Sep
An evening event called 'Poem in Your Pocket' in collaboration with The Hearth Centre for Healing Arts Festival, featuring a selection of poetry and prose readings to lift spirits. Attendees are invited to share their own poems and enjoy a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Teas and coffees are included in the ticket price.
21 Yateley Road is a Grade I listed Arts & Crafts house in Edgbaston, Birmingham, offering guided tours of the house and gardens. Visitors can explore the well-preserved interiors reflecting the original 1899 design and enjoy light refreshments during the 2.5-hour tours.
31 Aug
Summer of Play at Dudmaston Hall is a family-oriented outdoor event featuring dinosaur adventures, craft workshops, storytelling, yoga sessions, and traditional lawn games. Visitors can enjoy a variety of playful activities throughout the summer season at Dudmaston Hall's grounds.
7–11 Oct, 14–18 Oct…
A free spotter activity at Little Moreton Hall invites visitors to look for the wolf on the Moreton family crest and find wolves hidden around the hall and courtyard.
17 Oct–1 Nov
Follow a map around the garden to find eight pumpkins and complete spooky challenges with the Halloween Friends before the Great Pumpkin Parade.
17–25 Oct
Visitors can explore Myriad, an inflatable Luminarium by Architects of Air, wandering through winding tunnels and spaces filled with glowing colour. These quieter sessions offer a calmer, less crowded experience at each visitor’s own pace.
24 Oct
A full-day watercolour landscape painting workshop led by artist Sue Chatterton, inspired by Shugborough’s landscapes and The Painted Paradise exhibition. Participants visit the exhibition, sketch outdoors and paint indoors.
24 Oct–1 Nov
Families can follow a Halloween-themed trail through Wightwick Manor’s gardens, solving autumnal puzzles and taking part in fun challenges. Trail sheets include a small prize.
17 Oct (next Saturday)
An adult beginners' needle-felting workshop where participants learn basic techniques and make a pumpkin, with the option to add shading and a Jack o’ Lantern face.
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.
31 Aug
Summer of Play in Comer Woods is a free outdoor family festival held at Dudmaston Estate Comer Woods featuring games, sports activities, music, and nature-inspired workshops. Visitors can enjoy play areas, bike hire, dance, and sports sessions all summer long without needing to book. Some workshops and bike hire may have small charges. The event is suitable for all ages and encourages outdoor creative play and active participation in nature.
5 Sep, 13 Sep…
The Chinese House opening for East and South East Asian Heritage Month is a free event (venue admission applies) at Shugborough Estate where visitors can step inside the historic Chinese House, an 18th century Chinoiserie garden building, and learn about its story of travel, cultural exchange and artistic inspiration.
1–30 Sep
The Zodiac Trail is a step-free trail winding through the formal gardens to the Chinese House at Shugborough Estate, featuring zodiac-themed interpretation points to encourage exploration of the gardens in relation to East and South East Asian Heritage month.
6 Dec, 13 Dec…
Families can enjoy a festive breakfast, listen to Father Christmas share wintry stories, and sing seasonal songs in a cave reached by a woodland path. Children receive a gift and can have their photograph taken with Father Christmas.