Rani Lacy: revealing an Indian treasure
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 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.
Hidden Gibside, a history walk for those seeking a challenge
10 Oct, 15 Nov
A historian leads a challenging six-mile walk around Gibside, exploring its industrial past, the Bowes family and historic remains hidden across the estate.
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.
The Curiosity Garden Exhibition
8 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
An exhibition exploring William Constable’s eighteenth-century collection of dried plants, the Burton Constable Herbarium and its connections to the estate’s landscape. Visitors can see the Herbarium displayed across several rooms in Burton Constable Hall.
Burton Constable Hall & Parkland is a magnificent Elizabethan country house in Yorkshire featuring historic interiors and an extensive Capability Brown landscaped park. Visitors can explore grand rooms, art collections, and outdoor parkland with trails, a play area, and picnic spaces, offering a blend of indoor and outdoor experiences.
The autumn almanac
8 Oct–8 Nov (another 30 days)
The autumn almanac is a season-long programme at Gibside featuring autumn décor, exhibitions, floristry workshops, a poetry walk, a Head Gardener’s talk, apple tastings, forest bathing and heritage pottery glazing.
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.
The Libraries of Lanhydrock
7 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
Explore books from the families who lived at Lanhydrock, including Victorian family volumes and historical medical texts consulted by John Robartes. The presentation takes visitors through rooms in the house and the Gallery, then into the garden to see plants used in 17th-century remedies.
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.
Object of the month
7–11 Oct, 14–18 Oct…
Visitors can discover collection items linked to the history of Smallhythe Place and Ellen Terry, including theatre props and historic pub objects from the 1800s. The items are rotated monthly and displayed inside the house.
Smallhythe Place is a Tudor-era historic house and theatre museum in Kent, dedicated to Victorian actress Ellen Terry, featuring her theatrical collection, costume displays, beautiful gardens, and an active barn theatre hosting numerous productions annually.
Stansted House: Celebrating the 1920’s
10 Oct (this Saturday)
Visitors can explore Stansted House as it was in the late 1920s, seeing archival items and learning about the Bessborough family and life among the servants. The day includes piano performances, drop-in Charleston workshops, a children’s trail, an exhibition about Stansted Theatre and talks.
Stansted Park is an Edwardian country house set within 1800 acres of landscaped parkland and forest, offering visitors house tours, gardens, a chapel, woodland walks, and various outdoor attractions including a maze and light railway. Facilities include accessible parking, a café, and buggy service, with family-friendly activities and seasonal guided tours.
The Squirrels Who Squabbled at Claremont Landscape Garden
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.
'Wonder World: Earth' Children's Trail
7 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
A family trail along the Holeslack accessible route, exploring the world of soil and the life found underground. Visitors can pick up a trail map at the Visitor Centre.
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.
Stranger Folk – A digital adventure
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.
National Alpine Garden Show
10 Oct (this Saturday)
The National Alpine Garden Show celebrates alpine plants and autumn-flowering bulbs, with displays from specialist growers and Alpine Garden Society members. Visitors can speak with exhibitors for growing advice and join a behind-the-scenes Alpine Garden Team tour.
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.
Dunham Massey House
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.
Secrets of the Collection: Art
21–31 Aug, 3–7 Sep…
Secrets of the Collection: Art is an exhibition at Ormesby Hall showcasing the Pennyman family’s artistic legacy and their connections to prominent artists. The exhibition displays highlights from the Pennyman art collection and the stories behind them, held on the first floor of the house accessible only by stairs. It takes place during the open days of Ormesby Hall, with normal admission charges applying and no booking needed to attend.
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.
The Pikachu Art Adventure at Ightham Mote
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.
Falconry at the Abbey
10–11 Oct (this weekend)
See birds of prey in flight at Tintern Abbey and learn about their lives and the role of falconry in Tudor times. Visitors can also have their photo taken with the birds.
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.
Autumn-Winter Outdoor Play at Dunstable Downs
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.
Wings, Wonders & Wildlife Trail
7 Oct 2026–20 Feb 2027 (another 134 days)
Follow a self-led trail through the Sandilands nature reserve to learn about six migratory birds that visit the Lincolnshire coast and try wildlife challenges along the way.
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.
Ghosts of Roman Britain at Chedworth Roman Villa
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.
History of the Chinese Garden at Biddulph Grange
10 Oct, 17 Oct…
A volunteer-led talk in the Chinese Garden explores its history, design, different elements and sources of inspiration.
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.
Autumn Photography Exhibition 2026
7 Oct–27 Nov (another 49 days)
An outdoor exhibition at Wallington featuring winning and highly commended photographs from a competition themed around autumn and nature. Visitors can view the images displayed through the woodland and enjoy an autumnal walk.
Wallington Hall is a Grade I listed Palladian country house with rococo interiors and historic murals set in 100 acres of parkland and gardens in Northumberland, featuring wildlife reintroductions and cultural heritage exhibits.
The Big Draw
7–31 Oct (another 22 days)
As part of The Big Draw Festival, visitors can take part in drawing activities at Gunby Estate during October 2026. Pencils and paper can be borrowed from Visitor Reception.
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.
Constable 250: Flatford Guided Tour
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.
Buglife letterbox trail
7 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
Visitors can follow a letterbox trail around the Parke Estate, finding five boxes representing species that Buglife is working to protect. Each box has information about its species, and participants can collect stamps along the route.
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.
Godolphin Mining Heritage Walk
19 May, 22–23 May…
Join a volunteer guide for a short walk through Godolphin’s mining landscape. The walk highlights surviving mining features and explains the historic relationship between Godolphin and mining.
The Godolphin Estate is a National Trust property in Cornwall featuring a Grade I listed Tudor/Stuart mansion with Elizabethan stables, early formal gardens, and significant archaeological sites. The estate offers a mix of indoor historic house exploration and outdoor garden and landscape experiences, including views from Godolphin Hill. The house is open to the public on certain days and also available as a holiday let.
Lacock by Martin Parr: Photography Exhibition
27 Jun 2026–27 Jun 2027 (another 261 days)
A photography exhibition at the Fox Talbot Museum featuring Martin Parr’s portraits of Lacock, its residents and everyday village life. The photographs were taken during spring and summer 2025.
Lacock Abbey is a historic 13th-century abbey turned country house in Wiltshire, England, with medieval cloisters, Tudor additions and a museum dedicated to photographic pioneer William Henry Fox Talbot. The venue offers both indoor exploration of the house and museum, and outdoor experiences of the courtyard and village.
Nature Packs
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.
Runthrough Tatton 5k and 10k
10 Oct (this Saturday)
A chip-timed 5K and 10K road race around the roads within Tatton Park, held in support of the Christie Charity. Participants can choose either distance.
Quarry Bank Mill in Cheshire is a well-preserved historic textile mill from the Industrial Revolution, featuring working waterwheel machinery, factory and worker village tours, and exhibits on industrial heritage and child apprentices. It is operated as a museum by National Trust.
Teithiau cerdded tywysedig gwiwerod coch | Guided red squirrel walks 2026
10 Oct, 12 Oct…
Join a red squirrel ranger for a guided walk through Dairy Wood to learn about the red squirrels living at Plas Newydd, with the chance to spot them along the way.
Plas Newydd is a historic Neo-Classical country house in Anglesey set within Grade I listed gardens and parkland, offering visitors both indoor museum experiences and outdoor scenic walks with views over the Menai Strait and Snowdonia. The house features significant art, including the largest mural by Rex Whistler, and a military museum. The estate also contains prehistoric burial chambers and extensive historic buildings, and is managed by the National Trust.
Stranger Folk
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.
Art Exhibition by Sophie Anderson
1 Sep–30 Nov (another 52 days)
An exhibition of local artist Sophie Anderson’s paintings, inspired by the landscapes and changing light of Penwith’s coastline and moors. The works use pastel, oil and mixed media.
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.
Who's in Your Book?
7 Oct–8 Nov (another 30 days)
Families can follow an interactive trail through The Vyne’s gardens, searching for characters from Tom Fletcher’s Who’s In Your Book? series and completing playful challenges.
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.
Stranger Folk
10 Oct–12 Nov (next week)
Stranger Folk is an outdoor interactive adventure at Speke Hall, played using a free app and inspired by British folklore. Families with children aged 7–12 can explore a story featuring goblins, boggarts and other strange creatures.
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.
Discover a Hidden Masterpiece: The Gilt Leather Hangings at Dunster Castle
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 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.
Inspired by Chartwell Painting Exhibition
7 Oct–23 Dec, 26 Dec 2026–3 Jan 2027
An exhibition in Churchill’s studio at Chartwell presents the winning paintings from the Inspired by Chartwell competition alongside works by Churchill.
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.
Our Place, Our Marks - the Big Draw
7 Oct, 10–11 Oct…
Visitors can pause to observe and listen to the surroundings at Tattershall Castle, then use chalk to add their impressions to a shared drawing board. The collaborative artwork develops as visitors contribute throughout the season.
Tattershall College is the ruin of a 15th-century grammar school founded by the 3rd Baron Cromwell in Lincolnshire, featuring remains of Gothic architecture and an adjacent almshouse, now managed as a heritage site.
Parkrun at Fell Foot, every Saturday
10 Oct, 17 Oct…
A free weekly 5km parkrun at Fell Foot where participants can walk, jog or run, volunteer, or spectate. The event is welcoming and has no time limit.
Lakes Aquarium in Cumbria showcases diverse aquatic life from lakes around the world with themed exhibits including Lake District native species and a virtual diving bell experience, offering an engaging indoor aquatic encounter.
Beaver enclosure safari at Wallington
10 Oct, 23 Oct…
A guided safari with beaver ecologists in Wallington’s beaver enclosure, exploring wetlands, looking for signs of beaver activity and learning how beavers affect the landscape. The safari is not intended for viewing beavers themselves.
Stranger Folk at Quarry Bank
7 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
Visitors can use the Stranger Folk app to take part in an outdoor interactive adventure inspired by British folklore, featuring goblins and other creatures. The app is designed for children aged 7–12.
Quarry Bank is a historic 18th-century cotton mill estate in Cheshire featuring working industrial machinery, restored gardens, and a complete industrial community including the mill owner's house and workers' village. Visitors can explore indoor exhibits and historic buildings, extensive outdoor gardens and woodland, as well as enjoy family-friendly facilities and dog-friendly outdoor areas.
Wilmslow is a historic market town in Cheshire known for its quaint town centre, rich cultural heritage, access to railway services, local festivals, and a variety of shopping and dining experiences including luxury car showrooms.
'Voices of the garden' immersive audio trail at Greenway
7 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
Visitors follow a GPS-triggered audio trail through Greenway’s garden, hearing a fictional story inspired by the estate’s use as a home for child evacuees during the Second World War. The trail uses the HistoryScapes app to explore Greenway’s heritage.
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.
Behind Closed Doors | First Floor Tour (July - Nov)
7–10 Oct, 14–17 Oct…
A 45-minute guided tour of Attingham’s east-wing apartment explores the life of Teresa, Lady Berwick, and her connections to Italy. Visitors can see collection items linked to Teresa and rooms containing restored period furniture.
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.
Book of the Month
9–13 Oct, 16–20 Oct…
Visitors can discover a featured novel inspired by or connected to Lamb House and the history of its notable residents. The featured book changes monthly.
Lamb House is an 18th-century writer's house museum in Rye, East Sussex, showcasing the home and garden of renowned authors like Henry James. Visitors can explore the historic interiors and the walled garden, enjoying both indoor and outdoor heritage experiences.
Located in Rye
Rye is a picturesque historic town in East Sussex, known for its medieval streets, cobbled lanes, and rich maritime history as a former Cinque Port. It offers a vibrant arts scene, cultural festivals, and local seafood specialties, making it a popular tourist destination.
Sarah Watson art exhibition
7–11 Oct, 14–18 Oct…
An exhibition of landscape artworks by Sarah Watson, including scenes from Lincolnshire to Iceland and two large abstract paintings. The works are displayed around Grantham House.
The Very Hungry Caterpillar™ trail
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.
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.
We're Going on a Ghost Hunt this Halloween at Nymans
10 Oct–1 Nov (next week)
A Halloween activity trail at Nymans, inspired by the children’s books. Follow the bunnies’ ghost-hunting adventure, try activities including Halloween hoopla and broomstick racing, and collect a sticker at the celebration party.
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.
Daughters of the Soil
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.
Stranger Folk at Tredegar House
7 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
Visitors use the Stranger Folk app to follow an interactive folklore adventure around Tredegar House, completing challenges and deciding the fate of the characters. The experience is designed for children aged 7 and over and imaginative adults, and draws on Welsh folklore and storytelling.
Tredegar House is a grand 17th-century Carolean mansion near Newport, Wales, set within 90 acres of landscaped gardens. Once the home of the influential Morgan family, it is a Grade I listed historic property managed by the National Trust. Visitors can explore the richly restored mansion and its extensive gardens, with a history spanning over 500 years. The venue has also been used for various filming productions and hosted an annual classic car show.
Harvest at Beningbrough
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.
Harvest Weekend
9–11 Oct (another 2 days)
Harvest Weekend at Westbury Court Garden celebrates the season with its sights and flavours, offering visitors a taste of the past.
Westbury Court Garden in Gloucestershire is a rare surviving 17th-century Dutch-style water garden featuring a long historic canal, distinctive topiary, a Dutch style pavilion, and an ancient evergreen oak, restored and maintained by the National Trust.
Halloween in the House
7 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
Halloween visitors can explore Wimpole Hall’s spooky displays, including cobwebs, a frightful feast, a pumpkin patch and decorations in the basement. On 27 and 29 October, children aged 4–8 can also attend spooky story readings.
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.
Journeys – Global Textiles from the Karun Thakar Collection
22 May–1 Nov (another 23 days)
An exhibition at Blickling Estate presents textiles from the Karun Thakar Collection, including garments and embroidered pieces from around the world. It explores the histories of trade, migration, craftsmanship and cultural exchange connected to the textiles and the estate.
Blickling Hall is a Jacobean stately home in Norfolk with a significant historic library and extensive gardens, managed by the National Trust with on-site exhibitions including a WWII RAF museum.
The Rothschild Story
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.
Be a writer for a day at Greenway
7–16 Oct (another 7 days)
Explore Greenway house and garden for writing prompts and creative challenges inspired by Agatha Christie and the surroundings of her former holiday home. Visitors of all ages can develop stories, draw ideas and add creations to the “tall tales” trees.
Bayard's Cove Fort is a 16th-century artillery blockhouse located at the entrance of Dartmouth harbour in Devon. It features historic military architecture with multiple gunports and is managed by English Heritage, open to the public for exploration of its significant coastal defence heritage.
Plot to Palette in Botanical Watercolours (3 days)
9–11 Oct (another 2 days)
In this three-day botanical watercolour workshop, attendees learn drawing and painting techniques to create a botanical artwork inspired by autumn fruit and vegetables. The sessions include a visit to the Fruit and Vegetable Garden to see the subjects in place.
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.
Our Killerton
4 Jul–1 Nov (another 23 days)
Visitors can view a display of eight objects selected by people connected to Killerton, alongside a contemporary artwork by Patricia Dixon inspired by the stories behind the objects.
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.
Sound to Sketch - The Big Draw
7–31 Oct (another 22 days)
Visitors can collect a free sketching bag and draw their own views of the estate, with suggested inspiration in the Kitchen Gardens, Courtyard and by the Ice Pond.
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.
Emmetts Garden Autumn Festival: Autumn Fair Makers Market
9–11 Oct (another 2 days)
Browse and buy handmade crafts, homewares and gifts, alongside locally produced food and drink, from local makers at an autumn market held under a marquee at Emmetts Garden.
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.
October Half Term at Buckland Abbey
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.
Buckland Abbey is a 700-year-old Grade I listed former Cistercian abbey in Devon, converted to a historic house museum notable for its connection to Sir Francis Drake. Visitors can explore the unique architecture, museum collections, and extensive grounds including historic barns and gardens.
Guided Walk: Jazz Festival Walk
10 Oct (this Saturday)
A three-mile guided walk around Marsden village, taking in local history and views over the area before the Marsden Jazz Festival. The walk takes approximately two hours and includes a short steep section.
Marsden Moor offers visitors expansive moorland landscapes with rich wildlife and historical features, ideal for walking, nature observation, and guided outdoor activities. The site emphasizes conservation and provides several trails and events throughout the year.
Mystery of the Medieval Mice Trail
7 Oct, 10–11 Oct…
Visitors follow a mystery trail through Tattershall Castle, completing six mouse-door challenges to collect clues, solve a code and find the stolen mouse cheese.
Tattershall Castle is a historically significant 15th-century brick castle in Lincolnshire featuring a Great Tower with interior rooms and rooftop views, surrounded by moats, and preserved by the National Trust for public visits and events.
Drawn to Trees: tree trail
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.
Gwisgo'n Ffansi / All Dressed Up
7–31 Oct (another 22 days)
An exhibition at Plas Newydd explores the 5th Marquess of Anglesey’s identity through clothing, theatrical costume and fancy dress. It includes five costumes worn in the film Madfabulous, displayed in a part of the house not previously included on the visitor route.
Bryn Celli Ddu is a Neolithic chambered tomb on Anglesey featuring a stone passage, burial chamber, and unique features such as a blueschist pillar and the 'Pattern Stone'. The site offers both indoor experiences inside the mound and outdoor exploration of ancient henge remains and surrounding landscape. It is open to the public for free and is significant for its archaeological and astronomical alignments.
Pets to Page: The Tale of Two Bad Mice
7 Oct–13 Dec (another 65 days)
Explore Beatrix Potter’s creative process behind The Tale of Two Bad Mice through her manuscript, sketches, finished artworks and a restored dolls’ house. Visitors can watch animations and a conservation film, use interactive lighting and handle a replica dolls’ house.
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.
Exhibition: Journeys - Asafo flags from the Karun Thakar collection at Dyrham Park
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.
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.
Guided Tours: Secrets of Coleshill
10 Oct (this Saturday)
A guided tour around Coleshill explores the lost Coleshill House, the estate’s secret Second World War training history and the former Model Farm, now home to the Heritage and Rural Skills Centre. The tour includes a walk of approximately 1 km and a chance to look around an exhibition afterwards.
Coleshill Village & Parkland is a historic rural estate offering walking trails through farmland and parkland, alongside indoor experiences such as tours of a replica Second World War bunker and a traditional watermill. Visitors can enjoy heritage skills courses, a café, and a country pub on site.
Discover houseplants workshop
10 Oct (this Saturday)
This workshop explores the care, history, propagation and arrangement of houseplants and succulents through a talk and demonstrations. Attendees can also pot up a young plant to take home.
Bramall Hall is a historic Tudor Manor House with origins back to the Middle Ages, featuring unique architectural and artistic details inside, set within 60 acres of picturesque Victorian Romantic parkland with woodland walks, brooks, and lakes. Visitors can enjoy guided tours, facilities including a café, and a family-friendly environment.
Stranger Folk Digital Adventure at Morden Hall park
7 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
A digital folklore adventure in which groups use the Stranger Folk app to follow magical tasks, find mythical creatures and decide their fate while exploring Morden Hall Park. It is designed for children aged 7–11 to play with imaginative adults.
Morden Hall Park is a large National Trust park in Morden, London, featuring historic buildings including Morden Hall, snuff mills, and a garden centre, set on the River Wandle with extensive parkland, footbridges, and a dog-friendly café.
Paint the Gardens
10 Oct, 24 Oct
Visitors can collect free art materials at the garden entrance and draw or paint their favourite spots in the gardens at Belton 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.
Northern School of Art student exhibition
8–12 Oct (another 3 days)
An exhibition of artwork by A-level students from The Northern School of Art, inspired by Ormesby Hall and the stories of Ruth and Jim Pennyman. Visitors can see photography, ceramics, textiles and paintings displayed in different rooms of the house.
Roseberry Topping is a distinctive hill in North Yorkshire offering scenic outdoor experiences with panoramic views, historical significance, and geological interest within the North York Moors National Park.
The Red List; an exhibition by Jayne Ivimey
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.
The Pikachu Art Adventure at Kingston Lacy
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 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.
Autumn at Oxburgh; Drawing on the Estate
7 Oct–15 Nov (another 37 days)
Visitors can explore Oxburgh Estate through drawing activities, using sketching tools to capture features of the estate and its collections. Activities take place in the house and gardens, including drawing objects associated with former estate workers.
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.
Stories That Made Us exhibition
7–11 Oct, 14–18 Oct…
Stories That Made Us is an exhibition featuring new work by artists Hardish Virk and Shaniece Martin, inspired by Coventry Charterhouse and its surrounding communities. Personal reflections and immersive installations explore identity, memory and belonging.
Coventry is a historic cathedral city in the West Midlands, England, known for its iconic Coventry Cathedral with both a war-ravaged old spire and a modern new building. The city features cultural attractions including the Herbert Art Gallery, Coventry Transport Museum, and numerous theatres. Visitors can enjoy parks, festivals, and rich heritage linked to industry and the arts. Coventry also offers diverse shopping and dining experiences, and is celebrated as the UK City of Culture 2021.
We’re going on a Ghost Hunt™ family trail at Hatchlands Park
10 Oct–1 Nov (next week)
A Halloween family trail based on the children’s books, following the Bunnies of Hoppity Hill as they search for hidden ghosts around Hatchlands Park. The outdoor trail includes things to see and do along the way and is aimed at pre-schoolers and young children.
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.
Apple afternoons - taste the produce
9–10 Oct, 16–17 Oct…
At Gibside’s Walled Garden, gardeners demonstrate pressing apples and talk about the heritage varieties grown there. Visitors can also taste freshly pressed apple juice.
Derwentcote Steel Furnace is an early 18th-century cementation furnace near Newcastle upon Tyne, preserved as a Grade I listed industrial monument and scheduled site, showcasing historic steel production methods.
Tiny Tots Halloween Trail
9 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
A Halloween activity trail around New Inn for children aged six and under, with playful actions such as walking like a mummy, flapping like a bat and meowing like a cat.
Stowe House is a lavish historic English country house known for its pioneering 21st-century restoration project, set within the renowned Stowe landscape with enchanting gardens. Visitors can explore the interior of the house and enjoy accessible facilities and food options onsite.
Guardians of the Garden
7–11 Oct, 13–18 Oct…
An exhibition of contemporary textile artworks inspired by pollinators, including bees, butterflies, moths and hoverflies. The exhibition explores the role these creatures play in gardens, countryside and natural habitats.
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.
Exhibition: “Taste, Design, and the Georgian Gentleman”
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.
The Art of Illusion: The Theatrical World of Oliver Messel
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.
High Beeches Woodland & Water Garden in West Sussex is a 27-acre botanical garden featuring rare and exotic plants, woodland glades, water gardens, and an ancient wildflower meadow. Visitors can enjoy seasonal displays, owner guided tours, a picnic area, and accessible facilities in a peaceful outdoor setting.
Verdigris
7 Oct, 10–14 Oct…
An exhibition by artist Kathryn Poole brings together flower paintings, botanical etchings and lithographs of foxgloves from the grounds of Allan Bank. The works explore the foxglove’s life cycle, regeneration and the contrast between its poisonous and medicinal qualities.
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.
Bess: Unframing the family
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.
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.
History off the Hanger
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.
Clyston Mill is a historic agricultural watermill in Devon where visitors can explore the mill's ground floor with level access, enjoy the adjacent orchard by the River Clyst, and experience a nearby scenic cycle path. Access to upper floors is limited due to steep stairs, and the mill features an original 1880 waterwheel. Entry is free for National Trust members, with a small charge for non-members.
Lighthouse Keeper Trail
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.
100 years of Coleton Fishacre
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.
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.
Display of the Sir Philip Burne-Jones portrait of Rudyard Kipling
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.
Folklore and Fairies Family Quest
7 Oct–22 Nov (another 44 days)
Families can follow a quest at Corfe Castle, solving clues about folklore, mystery and superstition, including beliefs about cooking, protecting homes, witches and fairies.
Corfe Castle is a historic 11th-century ruined stone castle atop a hill in Dorset, England, known for its medieval architecture and role in the English Civil War. Visitors can explore the castle ruins, enjoy scenic views, and learn about its rich history under National Trust care.
Autumn at Oxburgh; Everyday Histories trail
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.
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.
Have a Go Sessions: Knitting at Gainsborough Old Hall
10 Oct (this Saturday)
A free knitting session at Gainsborough Old Hall where craft volunteers help attendees learn the basics or build their knitting skills and confidence. Materials are provided.
Gainsborough Old Hall is a well-preserved Tudor manor house in Lincolnshire, showcasing medieval architecture, historic interiors including a medieval kitchen, and intriguing features like witches' marks and a reputed haunting. It is managed by English Heritage and open as a museum for visitors.
Gainsborough is a historic market town in Lincolnshire, England known for its medieval Old Hall, riverside charm, historic churches, cultural venues, and river heritage.
From Here to There: a tour for children
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.
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.
Ruins of the Tin Coast
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 on the Tin Coast in Cornwall features iconic historic engine houses perched on cliffs, part of the Cornish Mining World Heritage Site. Visitors can explore industrial mining ruins, enjoy coastal walks on the South West Coast Path, and visit the Count House with a café and visitor information. Accessibility includes all-terrain scooter hire and accessible facilities.
Garden Yogis at Prior Park
10 Oct (this Saturday)
An outdoor yoga class held beside the lake and bridge at Prior Park Landscape Garden. Attendees should bring a yoga mat and blanket if they have them.
Prior Park Landscape Garden is a historically significant English landscape garden near Bath, designed by Alexander Pope and Capability Brown, featuring iconic structures like a Palladian bridge and Gothic temple, set in a steep valley with lakes and restored grounds open to the public.
30 years of the National Trust at Croome - Exhibition
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 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.
Vanbrugh 300
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.
An 'Ode to the Garden' Photography Competition
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.
Garden and abbey tour
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.
George Maw’s Global Suitcase Journey
10–12 Oct, 17–19 Oct…
Follow a Victorian-style passport trail around Benthall Hall and its garden, discovering George Maw’s travels, plant and fossil collecting, and inspiration for his tile designs. Suitcases around the site contain activities, objects to look at and passport stamps.
Benthall Hall is a 16th-century English country house in Shropshire, featuring fine oak interiors, historic gardens, and connections to the English Civil War, open to the public seasonally under the National Trust.
Telford is a planned new town in Shropshire, England, known for its strong industrial heritage and proximity to the Ironbridge Gorge UNESCO World Heritage Site. It features a bustling town centre with shopping, cultural amenities, and extensive parkland, surrounded by historic towns and scenic landscapes.
Bridgewater Primary Art Exhibition at Belsay Hall
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.
Display of Axel Scheffler's prints from Monkey Puzzle
23 May–1 Nov (another 23 days)
A display of four prints by Axel Scheffler from Julia Donaldson’s book *Monkey Puzzle*, showing the illustrations and their detail in the kitchen at Bateman’s.
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.
‘We’re Going on a Bear Hunt’ at Cotehele
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.
Fabulous fungi on Brownsea Island
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.
Located in Poole
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.
Cloam oven baking demonstration
8 Oct, 10 Oct
Staff demonstrate how the cloam oven at Tintagel Old Post Office is used, from lighting it with gorse to removing the cooked goods. The demonstration takes place in the main hall.
Tintagel Castle is a medieval fortification and archaeological site in North Cornwall, known for its extensive ruins, association with King Arthur legends, and significant early medieval elite settlement remains. Visitors explore the scenic outdoor castle ruins and newly constructed footbridge linking the island to the mainland.
Parkrun at Bolberry Down
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.
Cobwebs & Cream Tea Tours
8–18 Oct (another 9 days)
A guided behind-the-scenes tour of Burton Constable Hall explores hidden corridors, derelict rooms and the former servants’ quarters. The ticket also includes a self-guided Hall visit and a choice of cream tea or traditional afternoon tea.
Marvellous moths trail
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.
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.
Stranger Folk
9–13 Oct, 16–20 Oct…
Stranger Folk is an app-based adventure inspired by British folklore, featuring interactive games and creatures such as goblins and boggarts. Families can explore Rufford Old Hall and its grounds, follow the story and take part in additional on-site games.
Rufford Old Hall is a Grade I listed Tudor and Jacobean hall house in Lancashire featuring richly decorated interiors, a notable sixteenth-century carved wooden screen, extensive Victorian gardens with topiary squirrels, and historical collections of arms and rural memorabilia. The site offers both indoor historical architecture and outdoor garden experiences.
Pumpkin Patch at the Farm
10–11 Oct (this weekend)
Visitors can meet the farmyard animals at Tatton Park Farm and pick pumpkins from the field, with pumpkins 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.
Spookiful at Standen
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.
Exhibition – Unfinished Business: The Mystery of Margate and Turner’s Bequest
8–25 Oct (another 16 days)
An exhibition explores J.M.W. Turner’s painting *Margate (?), from the Sea* and the history of his bequest to the nation. Visitors can see the painting alongside archival documents, letters and works by artists influenced by Turner.
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.
Winnie-the-Pooh Centenary Exhibition
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.
Stranger Folk Digital Adventure at Allan Bank
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.
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.
Fountains by Floodlight
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.
The Collectors of Ickworth Exhibition
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.
Fungi Walk
10 Oct (this Saturday)
A local mycologist leads a circular walk through the woods and meadows of Borde Hill’s South Park to explore fungi. Afterwards, attendees can ask questions over tea, coffee and cake inside the Ginkgo Coffee Shop.
Borde Hill is a Grade II* listed English Heritage Garden set within 383 acres of woodland and parkland, famous for its diverse collection of unusual trees and shrubs and distinct garden 'rooms'. Visitors can enjoy scenic views, wheelchair accessible facilities, and family-friendly amenities including a cafe and picnic area.
The Caravan Press
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.
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.
Saturday Parkland Walk
10 Oct (this Saturday)
A volunteer-guided walk of around 2 to 3 miles through Wimpole Estate’s parkland, with opportunities to learn about its history and discover scenic highlights. Walks last around 1 to 1.5 hours.
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.
The Pikachu Art Adventure at Killerton
7 Oct–13 Nov (another 35 days)
Explore an outdoor trail featuring 30 Pikachu cards illustrated by different artists, discover facts about the character and design a Pikachu trading card.
Ashclyst Forest near Exeter is a large natural woodland popular for walks, wildlife sightings, and dog walking. It features multiple car parks, waymarked trails, and nearby amenities including a dog friendly coffee shop at Killerton. The forest offers a peaceful outdoor experience for families and nature lovers.
Attic tours
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.
The East Riding Yeomanry Exhibition
8 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
An exhibition marking the 80th anniversary of VE Day presents artefacts from the Neil Hutty Collection to tell the story of the East Riding Yeomanry and its members. Visitors can view uniforms, medals, service records, documents and personal items.
UPDATED: Remarkable Rangers: Apple Harvest Weekends
10–11 Oct (this weekend)
Visitors can join the Ranger team to collect apples from Barrington Court’s orchards, which contain more than 100 varieties. The harvest activity takes place across the first two weekends of October.
Barrington Court is a Tudor manor house in Somerset, combining historic architecture with Arts and Crafts-style gardens originally designed by Gertrude Jekyll. Visitors can explore the historic house, converted stable buildings, and extensive ornamental gardens including a kitchen garden supplying the onsite restaurant.
Stranger Folk digital adventure at Winkworth Arboretum
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.
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.
The Botanical World of Mary Delany
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.
Tour: ‘Taste, Design, & the Georgian Gentleman’
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.
Centenary exhibition detailing the building of Sandham Memorial Chapel .
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.
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.
Parkrun at Bolberry Down
10 Oct, 17 Oct…
A free weekly 5km parkrun at Bolberry Down, where participants can run, jog or walk a route along paths and the coast path.
Overbeck's Garden at Sharpitor is a Grade II registered Edwardian garden in Devon featuring a subtropical collection of plants, themed garden areas, and a historic house housing a museum with maritime exhibits and unique displays like a secret door and musical box.
Salcombe is a picturesque resort town in Devon known for its historic maritime heritage, sailing activities, sandy beaches, and charming waterfront, attracting tourists with its natural beauty and cultural events.
Three Cheers for Pooh! Story trail
7–23 Oct, 26 Oct–23 Dec…
A family story trail through the gardens featuring Winnie-the-Pooh and characters from A.A. Milne’s stories, including Pooh and Tigger.
Anglesey Abbey is a National Trust property in Cambridgeshire featuring a Jacobean country house built on a priory site, surrounded by 98 acres of landscaped gardens and grounds including a working historic mill. Visitors can explore the richly furnished interiors with art collections and tapestries, as well as extensive outdoor gardens with seasonal events and an outdoor cinema.
The art of noticing: a photography exhibition
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.
Metrocentre in Gateshead is a vast indoor shopping and entertainment complex featuring over 200 shops, multiple restaurants, a cinema with IMAX, and family-friendly leisure activities including climbing walls, mini golf, and bowling.
Diwali at Bateman's
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.
Exhibition: Filming Sense and Sensibility at Rainham Hall
8–10 Oct, 15–17 Oct…
An exhibition at Rainham Hall explores how the house was transformed for the film Sense and Sensibility, displaying costumes and props and documenting the filming process.
Rainham Hall is a well-preserved Georgian merchant's house in London with historic interiors, exhibitions, and an on-site café, showcasing a unique blend of domestic and commercial history from the 18th century onwards.
How did we get here?
7–11 Oct (another 2 days)
An exhibition at Kedleston Hall presents Tibetan artefacts and previously untold stories, alongside a film by British-Tibetan artist Nyima Murry. Visitors can also get a behind-the-scenes insight into the conservation work and decisions involved in creating the exhibition.
Kedleston Hall is an 18th-century English country house in Derbyshire, featuring Palladian architecture and Neoclassical interiors. Visitors can explore its grand state rooms and extensive landscaped gardens with architectural follies. The historic seat of the Curzon family, it is now managed by the National Trust as a cultural and heritage attraction.
Royal Geographical Society: Earth Photo 2026
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.
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.
Stranger Folk at Belton
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.
October Half Term – Stranger Folk at Cliveden
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.
Gawthorpe Textiles Collection exhibition
7–11 Oct, 14–18 Oct…
An exhibition across five rooms displays historic textiles collected by Rachel Kay-Shuttleworth, including embroidery, patterned and printed fabrics, wool work, metallic threads and costume pieces, presented around the theme of colour.
Gawthorpe Hall is a Grade I listed Elizabethan country house located on the banks of the River Calder in Lancashire. The house features historic architecture with roots as a pele tower, extensive restoration by Charles Barry, ornamental gardens, and serves as a trailhead for the Brontë Way footpath. The site also includes Burnley Football Club's training complex on its grounds.
Burnley is a historic market town in Lancashire, England, known for its industrial heritage as a major cotton production centre and ongoing advanced manufacturing, as well as cultural attractions including historic mills, museums, music festivals, and a lively nightlife scene.
Dried Flower Autumn Wreath Workshop
10 Oct (this Saturday)
Participants will make an autumn wreath using a willow base and dried flowers and foliage grown at Wisley, with guidance from florist Emily Luker of Paper and Sprig.
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.
'The Polar Failure': Uncovering the hidden images of the 1875 Arctic expedition
7 Oct 2026–28 Jun 2027 (another 262 days)
An immersive exhibition at Hughenden Manor explores Britain’s 1875 Arctic expedition through more than 100 historic photographs, rare objects and narration. Visitors can learn about the journey and the experiences of the crews of HMS Alert and HMS Discovery.
Hughenden Manor is a Victorian mansion and former country house of Prime Minister Benjamin Disraeli, featuring historic rooms, memorabilia, and extensive gardens in Buckinghamshire. Now owned by the National Trust, it offers visitors a blend of indoor historical experience and outdoor natural beauty with views over the valley.
Autumn games in the Stableyard
7 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
Visitors can enjoy spooky autumn activities in the Stableyard, including broomstick races, games and challenges for all ages, alongside the Marvellous Moths trail.
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.
‘Journeys – Wedding Shawls, Baghs and Phulkaris from the Karun Thakar Collection'
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.
The Pikachu Art Adventure at Fountains Abbey
7 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
Follow a trail of 30 Pikachu trading-card artworks around Fountains Abbey, discover facts about the character and design your own card. Visitors can collect a gallery sheet and use a Pikachu stamper at Fountains Mill.
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.
Flavours of Autumn
8–11 Oct (another 2 days)
Flavours of Autumn is a harvest festival at RHS Garden Rosemoor, with fruit heritage displays, talks and demonstrations, orchard tours, live music, seasonal food and drink, and family activities including drawing, storytelling and garden games.
Styling Smallhythe: From the functional to the unconventional
7–11 Oct, 14–18 Oct…
A display at Smallhythe Place traces changes in women’s fashion from the late 1800s into the 1900s, using clothing, photographs and paintings to explore changing attitudes and the lives of some of the house’s residents.
The Fabric of East Riddlesden: Inspiration from the Hall and its grounds
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.
Stranger Folk Digital Adventure
3 Oct–8 Nov (another 30 days)
A mobile-app adventure for ages 7–12 in Baddesley Clinton’s gardens, where teams follow a guide and complete creative tasks to find the Stranger Folk and seal a rift between worlds.
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.
The Art of Wallpaper: Morris & Co.
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.
Stranger Folk at Woodchester Park
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.
Autumn trail: Become a nature detective at Dyrham Park with 'There's No Deer Around Here'
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.
The Haunting By Moonlight – Murder Mystery at Knowsley Hall
10–11 Oct (this weekend)
An immersive Halloween murder mystery at Knowsley Hall, where guests investigate a fictional haunting and murder over drinks and a three-course dinner. The offering also includes an overnight stay and breakfast.
Knowsley Hall is a historic aristocratic mansion set within a vast private estate in Merseyside, offering guided tours on limited open days, exclusive use stays, and hosting events in a grand setting with distinguished interiors and a fine art collection.
Open Cabinets
7 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
Visitors can see inside selected cabinets displayed around Castle Drogo and view their craftsmanship and interiors.
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.
Quarry Bank Scarecrow Festival
7 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
Quarry Bank Scarecrow Festival features an outdoor scarecrow trail and seasonal activities, alongside indoor crafts, storytelling, an autumn-themed play area, a tour of the Apprentice House and an interactive game inspired by British folklore.
Guided garden tours
6 Oct, 8 Oct…
Join a volunteer-led tour of the gardens at Hinton Ampner to learn more about them. Tours take place on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays in October 2026.
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.
Stranger Folk - The Folklore Mystery Journey
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.
Pick Your Own Pumpkins at Doddington
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.
Step into a Story at Lanhydrock
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.
Victorian Kitchen Tours (weekends)
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.
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.
Stranger Folk
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.
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.
Guided wider estate walks - Active Hike
10 Oct, 20 Oct…
A guided hike of more than five miles explores the wilder parts of Arlington estate, including woodland, riverside and parkland, with steep climbs and scenic views. Walkers should be prepared for uneven and sometimes muddy or slippery terrain.
Arlington Court is a neoclassical country house in Devon featuring historic architecture, period interiors, and a notable collection of horse-drawn carriages, set within registered Grade II* gardens. It offers indoor tours of the house and carriage museum along with outdoor exploration of the estate and gardens. The venue also provides dining facilities and activities suitable for children.
Bringing Esther Home
7 Oct–23 Dec, 27–31 Dec
Visitors can see the Queen Esther tapestry on display inside Oxburgh Hall, tracing the story of its return to the estate. A family trail themed around Esther is also available in the Kitchen Garden.
UK Fungus Day: ranger walk in the parkland at Trelissick
10 Oct (this Saturday)
Join the ranger team for a walk through Trelissick parkland, identifying and surveying grassland fungi such as waxcaps and puffballs.
Trelissick is a historic stately home and extensive garden located in Cornwall, England, owned by the National Trust. Visitors can explore both the house and its exceptional gardens featuring rare plants, woodland walks, and scenic estuary views within a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Tattershall's Ghostly Tales & Tower Secrets
10 Oct, 17 Oct…
Join Will the Peasant on an interactive family tour of Tattershall Castle, hearing ghost stories and exploring the castle’s history, rooms and tower secrets. The route includes climbing 149 steps to the top of the tower.
Battle of Hastings at Battle Abbey
10–11 Oct (this weekend)
A large-scale re-enactment of the Battle of Hastings, with Saxon and Norman soldiers, living history camps, falconry displays, traditional music and a performance telling the story of the Bayeux Tapestry. Children can take part in sword school and a re-creation of the battle.
Battle Abbey is a historic Benedictine abbey site in East Sussex, England, built on the site of the Battle of Hastings. Visitors can explore the abbey ruins, enjoy the visitor centre with exhibitions and film, participate in audio tours of the battlefield, and use child-friendly facilities including a discovery room and playground.
Battle is a historic market town in East Sussex famous for the 1066 Battle of Hastings and its medieval abbey, with a charming high street, cultural heritage, and scenic walking opportunities.
Stranger Folk digital adventure
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.
Restormel Castle is a well-preserved Norman shell keep castle near Lostwithiel in Cornwall, notable for its unusual circular design and historical significance. Visitors can explore the outdoor ruins and enjoy its scenic riverside setting with a picnic area, maintained by English Heritage.
Hinton Ampner: Unseen
5–18 Oct (another 9 days)
Hinton Ampner: Unseen is an exhibition revealing rarely displayed objects, hidden areas and stories from the historic house. Visitors can explore furniture, the China Store and the conservation work involved in caring for the collections.
Free daily guided red squirrel walks
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.
Stranger Folk Adventure at Sheffield Park
7 Oct–15 Nov (another 37 days)
Visitors use the Stranger Folk app to take part in an outdoor, games-based adventure inspired by British folklore. Guided by the Old Crone, teams complete magical tasks to find the Stranger Folk and decide their fate.
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.
'New Work at Newark Park: A Sculpture Exhibition'
7 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
A sculpture exhibition featuring work by five local artists, displayed across Newark Park’s house and gardens. The contemporary sculptures explore the estate’s history, landscape and wildlife, with some works made from materials sourced locally.
Newark Park is a Grade I listed Tudor hunting lodge and country house near Ozleworth, Gloucestershire, set within a 700-acre estate featuring formal deer park and landscaped grounds. Visitors can explore both the historic indoor interiors and the scenic outdoor areas surrounding the house. The site is managed by the National Trust and open to the public seasonally.
Monkey Puzzle trail at Bateman’s
23 May–1 Nov (another 23 days)
A family trail at Bateman’s inspired by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s Monkey Puzzle. Visitors explore the house and garden, helping Little Monkey find his mum through interactive games and challenges.
An Accomplished Woman: The Creative Life of Lady Chatterton Exhibition at Baddesley
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.
Tibetan Outdoor Trail
7–11 Oct (another 2 days)
A self-guided outdoor trail through Kedleston Hall’s park and garden, with seven points exploring the spiritual significance of nature in Tibetan culture. Visitors can follow the points in any order and reflect on the natural surroundings.
Duffield Castle is a historic Norman motte and bailey castle site in Derbyshire with extensive stone keep foundations, known as an early archaeological monument preserved by the National Trust. Visitors can explore the outdoor remains of this once strategically important castle with a rich history dating back to Norman times and earlier.
By appointment tour
7 Oct, 10 Oct…
A guided tour of Treasurer’s House explores Frank Green’s vision for the historic house and its collection of furniture, clocks and art, alongside research into his life and the property.
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.
The Pikachu Art Adventure
7 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
Visitors can search Attingham Park for 30 illustrated Pikachu trading cards, learn facts about the character and design their own card. The adventure takes place around the grounds, Stables and Mansion.
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.
Display of Su Blackwell's 'Bateman's Reimagined'
5 Oct 2026–14 Feb 2027 (another 128 days)
An exhibition of Su Blackwell’s paper artwork, a house created from copies of Rudyard Kipling’s handwritten manuscript of The Jungle Book. The artwork is displayed in Elsie’s Room on the ground floor of Bateman’s.
October Half Term - Stranger Folk at Hughenden
7 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
Families can use the Stranger Folk app to follow an interactive adventure inspired by British folklore at Hughenden, working together to heal a rift between the human and spirit worlds. The story features characters such as a mysterious Old Crone, goblins and boggarts.
West Wycombe is a historic village in Buckinghamshire known for its National Trust properties including West Wycombe Park, caves, the Mausoleum on the hill, and St Lawrence's Church with a unique golden globe tower. The village has notable historical architecture and attracts tourists with its blend of indoor exhibits and outdoor heritage sites.
Deep Dive into Paintings and First World War Poetry
10 Oct, 1 Nov…
Visitors can hear a short talk exploring one of Stanley Spencer’s paintings, followed by a reading of poetry by First World War poets in the Chapel.
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.
An exhibition: The World in Bath - Georgian People of Colour at Bath Central Library
7–10 Oct, 12–17 Oct…
An exhibition at Bath Central Library exploring the lives and histories of people of colour who lived, worked and visited Georgian Bath. Visitors can view portraits and objects connected with people uncovered through the exhibition’s research.
The Bath Assembly Rooms is a Grade I listed Georgian building in Bath, England, featuring the largest Georgian ballroom in the city, decorated with fine art and chandeliers. It historically served as the social hub for balls and concerts and is now a National Trust visitor attraction used for exhibitions, concerts, and filming.
We’re Going on a Ghost Hunt™ Halloween Adventure
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.
Silver Jewellery Workshop at Bowood House & Gardens
10 Oct (this Saturday)
Participants are guided by artist Marianne Donohoe through making a piece of fine silver jewellery, with materials and tutoring provided. No previous skills are required.
Bowood House & Gardens in Wiltshire features extensive gardens and historic parkland centered around a remodelled classical house with rich art and antiques collections. Visitors can experience both indoor tours of the house and outdoor exploration of the Capability Brown landscape, terraces and adventure playground for children. Facilities include a cafe, picnic area, shop, and free parking.
Flapper Fashion
5 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
A display in Scotney Castle’s Mansion House showcases early 20th-century dresses belonging to Betty Hussey and Maud Kerr-Smiley, including a Schiaparelli designer dress. It also presents research into the garments and their owners.
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.
Gilded Treasures Exhibition: 50 Years of the National Trust at Dunster Castle
5 Oct–2 Nov (another 24 days)
An exhibition marking 50 years of the National Trust at Dunster Castle, featuring golden objects from the castle’s collection, including its rare gilt leather hangings. Visitors can also learn about the castle’s gift to the Trust and view a film presenting a virtual gallery of the hangings.
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.
At the bend in the river: Paintings by Nancy Cadogan
10–11 Oct, 14–18 Oct…
An exhibition of newly commissioned and existing paintings by Nancy Cadogan, inspired by Beningbrough’s landscape, gardens and literary history. Visitors can view large-scale landscapes and more intimate works exploring women, time and storytelling.
Beningbrough is a historic hall and art gallery surrounded by extensive gardens and parkland in Yorkshire, featuring formal gardens, a walled kitchen garden, and new garden areas including a Pergola and upcoming Mediterranean Garden, with facilities for families and dogs.
Captured by Caricature: Max Beerbohm and Henry James
9–13 Oct, 16–20 Oct…
An exhibition exploring the connection between Max Beerbohm and Henry James, featuring Beerbohm’s caricatures of James alongside sketches by William Rothenstein and John Singer Sargent.
Camber Castle is a 16th-century Device Fort built by Henry VIII near Rye, East Sussex, to protect the coast from invasion. It is a ruined concentric artillery fortress operated by English Heritage, open to visitors for guided tours. The castle is notable for its historic military architecture and coastal location.
Wordsworth the Influencer
7 Oct, 10–14 Oct…
A permanent exhibition at Allan Bank explores how William Wordsworth influenced the Lake District. Visitors can see large-scale photographs of landscapes featured in his writing, alongside a first edition of his Guide to the Lakes and later guides.
Great Langdale is a scenic valley in the Lake District National Park, renowned for hiking, climbing, and outstanding natural features like the Langdale Pikes and Dungeon Ghyll waterfall. It also has historic significance for Neolithic stone axe production and offers outdoor activities for all ages.
Saved for the Nation
7–11 Oct, 14–18 Oct…
A display celebrating the transfer to the National Trust of two paintings by Sir Joshua Reynolds: portraits of Joanna Leigh and the actor David Garrick. It also explains the Acceptance in Lieu scheme through which the works entered the national collection.
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.
On Screen at Calke Abbey
7 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
Explore locations at Calke Abbey used in *Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man*, with information about filming in the historic interiors and outdoor spaces. A downloadable walking trail highlights filming locations across the estate.
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.
The Pikachu Art Adventure at Ickworth Estate
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.
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.
Medicinal Garden Walks
7 Oct, 10 Oct…
Join a guided walk around Hanbury Hall’s formal gardens to explore the medicinal properties of plants and learn about the historic gardens.
Hanbury Hall is an 18th-century Queen Anne style stately home in Worcestershire, managed by the National Trust, featuring historic interiors with notable paintings, recreated formal gardens, and listed heritage buildings within scenic parkland.
Meet Rembrandt: A slow looking experience
7 Oct–8 Nov (another 30 days)
Visitors can spend time looking at Rembrandt van Rijn’s *Self-portrait in a Feathered Bonnet* with a free audio guide as part of a slow-looking experience at Upton House.
Upton House and Gardens in Warwickshire is a 1930s honey-coloured country house featuring a world-renowned art collection and fine Chelsea porcelain, set within dramatic terraced gardens designed for leisure and pleasure. Visitors can explore the accessible ground floor of the house, extensive gardens, enjoy the Pavilion Café, and take part in family-friendly outdoor activities and seasonal events.
The Grand Tour Exhibition at A la Ronde
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.
The Story of the Westerham Foundlings - An Exhibition at Quebec House in collaboration with Coram
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.
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.
Exhibition | Quilts for the Longest Day: A Sewing Group’s Accidental Journey
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.
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.
Autumn at Oxburgh
7 Oct–15 Nov (another 37 days)
Autumn at Oxburgh offers garden story trails about estate staff, opportunities to explore the Kitchen Garden’s seasonal produce, and drawing activities in the house and around the estate, including bookable still-life sessions.
Walls of Wonder
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.
Royal Geographical Society: Earth Photo 2026
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.
Arddangosiad hollti llechi | Slate splitting demonstration
7–31 Oct (another 22 days)
Quarrymen from the National Slate Museum demonstrate the craft of splitting and dressing slate in the Stable Block at Penrhyn Castle. Demonstrations take place several times daily.
Penrhyn Castle is a grand 19th-century country house in Wales built in the Neo-Norman style, featuring historic interiors, extensive grounds, and an important art collection. It offers a combination of indoor and outdoor experiences including exhibitions on its historical ties to slavery and the slate industry, and a former railway museum.
Embroidery workshops with Amanda Carter
10 Oct, 4 Nov…
A full-day embroidery workshop with Amanda Carter at Sunnycroft, where participants learn or practise needlework techniques and create an embroidery piece. Materials, tuition, lunch and an opportunity to view Sunnycroft’s embroidery collection are included.
Sunnycroft is a Victorian suburban villa in Wellington, Shropshire, featuring a rare unaltered interior, an elaborate conservatory, and extensive grounds including stables, pigsties, gardens, and a tree-lined avenue. It is owned by the National Trust and open to the public by appointment or on limited occasions.
Creative writing for mindfulness
10 Oct, 28 Nov
An outdoor creative writing session led by an English teacher and holistic life coach. Participants use the forest as inspiration and explore thoughts and feelings through writing prompts and mindful activities.
Hatfield Forest is a 403-hectare medieval Royal Hunting Forest in Essex, managed by the National Trust, offering extensive woodlands, ancient trees, diverse wildlife, archaeological sites, and accessible walking trails in an outdoor nature reserve experience.
(In)tangible
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.
The Langdales in the Lake District offer dramatic natural landscapes with mountain peaks, tarns, woodland trails, and a historic arboretum. Visitors can enjoy extensive outdoor walking and cycling routes, accessible areas including a circular trail around Blea Tarn, and peaceful woodland at High Close Estate. Facilities include parking, accessible toilets, and dog-friendly paths, making it suitable for families and nature lovers.
Vintage tea room
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.
Highclere Castle is a historic Victorian mansion in Hampshire, famous as the filming location for Downton Abbey. Visitors can tour the state rooms and Egyptian Exhibition, explore extensive gardens, and enjoy onsite cafes and shops. The venue offers good wheelchair accessibility across most areas, including outdoor lawns and certain exhibits, though motorised wheelchairs are restricted inside the Castle.
The social season: A Regency year at Mompesson House
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.
The Great Big Halloween Hunt Trail
3 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
A family activity trail in Hughenden’s formal gardens, inspired by the children’s book The Great Big Halloween Hunt. Children can search, play and explore along the route.
West Wycombe Park in Buckinghamshire features a historic Palladian mansion open for guided tours, surrounded by 45 acres of landscaped gardens, a charming 16th to 18th-century village, and scenic hilltop views. Visitors can enjoy cultural events, family-friendly trails, and refreshment options in the village.
Open Cabinets Month in the Mansion House
7–12 Oct, 14–19 Oct…
Visitors can explore historic cabinets in Castle Ward’s Mansion House, revealing objects and curiosities from the collection and the stories behind them. Weekday visits include a guided house tour, while visitors can explore at their own pace on weekends.
Strangford Lough is the UK's largest sea lough and a key wildlife habitat offering outstanding outdoor experiences including wildlife watching, coastal and woodland walks, and boat trips. It features mixed terrains with some wheelchair accessible paths and multiple car parks around the area. Dogs are welcome but should be kept under control.
Pooch Passport Explorers
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.
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.
Hibernation at the Mill
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.