Meet the gardeners: The Mulberry Garden Project
27 Sep, 8 Oct…
Bateman’s gardeners give a short talk about the Mulberry Garden Project, covering the planned changes, the historical research behind them and how the project reflects the garden during Rudyard Kipling’s lifetime. Attendees can ask questions about the project.
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.
'Pumpkin Party' - Community Autumn Display
7 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
View a community-crafted autumn display of knitted, crocheted and handmade pumpkins and gourds in the Victorian Kitchen at Charlecote Park.
Charlecote Park is a historic 16th-century English country house with Tudor and Victorian features, set in extensive deer park and landscaped grounds by Capability Brown. Visitors can explore the richly decorated interiors, including family portraits and historic artifacts, as well as enjoy the outdoor parkland and gardens.
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.
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.
Autumn Boating at Cliveden
8–11 Oct, 15–18 Oct…
Visitors can take a boat trip on the River Thames at Cliveden, choosing from self-drive electric launches, a skippered cruise, pedal boats, rowing boats or Canadian canoes. The event also highlights Cliveden’s historic association with boating on the Thames.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Behind the Lens | Lichfield Apartment Tour
11 Oct, 13 Oct
A guided tour of society photographer Patrick Lichfield’s apartment, led by the house and collections team. Hear stories about his life and learn how the apartments and their collection have changed over the years.
Shugborough Estate in Staffordshire offers a blend of indoor and outdoor experiences including tours of a Georgian mansion, expansive gardens, parkland, and a working model farm. It features accessible facilities, food outlets, family-friendly activities, and dog-friendly grounds across 900 acres of historic and natural landscapes.
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.
Free Wednesday Social Walks
2 Sep, 9 Sep…
Free Wednesday Social Walks are weekly social walks around Longshaw led by experienced guides. The walks cover around 5 miles and start at the Welcome Building in Woodcroft car park, ending at Longshaw Café. They provide an opportunity to meet people, discover the countryside, and build walking confidence. Booking is advisable but drop-ins are welcome if space permits. Dogs on leads are allowed, and children over 8 years old can participate.
Longshaw Estate is a historic moorland and woodland area in the Peak District with outdoor trails, a tea room, shop, and indoor discovery centre offering wildlife and estate-related events. It features ancient settlements, historic guidestoops, and hosts traditional sheepdog trials.
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.
Money, Murder and Marriage at Newton House
8 Oct, 13 Oct…
A one-hour guided tour with the Welcome Team explores the Rhys family history at Newton House, including its ownership, a near-murder and how marriage contributed to the family’s fortunes.
Newton House is a Grade II* listed historic country house in Carmarthenshire, Wales, partially owned by the National Trust. Visitors can explore beautifully restored interiors with exhibitions, enjoy a tearoom, and walk the surrounding Capability Brown landscaped deer park with rare wildlife. The house is famous for its Gothic architecture and reputed hauntings.
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.
October Half Term Halloween Trail: We're Going on a Ghost Hunt
7 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
Families can follow an outdoor Halloween ghost-hunt trail through Chartwell’s parkland, completing games and activities at eight spooky stops before collecting a sticker reward. The trail is designed for children under 8.
Chartwell is a historic English country house near Westerham, Kent, best known as the home of Sir Winston Churchill for over forty years. Visitors can explore the restored interiors, including Churchill's study and memorabilia, as well as extensive gardens and lakes designed by Churchill himself. The site includes a restaurant, shop, and exhibitions reflecting the life and legacy of Churchill.
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.
Flavours of Autumn
8–11 Oct (another 2 days)
A seasonal event at RHS Garden Wisley featuring a food and drink market, grow-your-own inspiration, talks, cookery demonstrations and live music.
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.
Guided parkland walks
8–9 Oct, 12–16 Oct…
A volunteer guide leads a walk through Dyrham Park’s 270 acres of parkland, sharing information about the deer herd, the site’s history and archaeology, and how the parkland is managed.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Weighbridge Second-hand bookshop pop-ups and seasonal displays
7–8 Oct, 31 Oct…
Visitors can browse second-hand books and seasonal displays at the Weighbridge bookshop, including pop-ups themed around poetry, Halloween, remembrance, Christmas and Jane Austen Day.
Cliveden is a historic estate in Buckinghamshire featuring impressive formal gardens, extensive woodlands, and limited guided tours of the house which is now a luxury hotel. Visitors can enjoy family-friendly activities including walking trails, a play area, boating on the Thames, and cafés. The site offers accessibility features and welcomes dogs in many areas.
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.
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.
House of Discovery Exhibition at Dyffryn Gardens
7–10 Oct, 14–17 Oct…
An exhibition in the Morning Room of Dyffryn House explores the house’s history and the conservation and restoration work being carried out there.
Tinkinswood Burial Chamber is a Neolithic dolmen located in the Vale of Glamorgan, Wales, notable for its massive stone capstone and historical significance as a communal burial site dating back to around 4000 BC. Visitors can explore the outdoor stone structure and nearby stone avenues associated with ancient burial practices.
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.
Guided walk: Ruins and Reservoirs
11 Oct (this Sunday)
A seven-mile guided walk across the moor takes in views from Dinnerstones and Millstone Edge, a picnic stop at the ruins of Dowry Castle, reservoirs and the site of Roman Castleshaw.
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.
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.
Indian Block Print at Bowood House & Gardens
9 Oct
Participants learn the traditional art of Indian block printing through a demonstration and guided practice, then create a table runner, napkins or other textile items to take home.
Bowood Woodland Garden is a 30-acre historic garden featuring classic family mausoleum architecture, extensive rhododendron walks, and a collection of rare plants, set in a scenic woodland environment.
Abbey tour
7 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
Join a volunteer guide for a one-hour tour of Fountains Abbey’s monastic ruins, exploring the abbey’s history and the daily routines of the monks who lived there.
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.
Stranger Folk, Volume 1: Crone Calling
7 Oct–8 Nov (another 30 days)
Families use the Stranger Folk app to follow an immersive, real-world adventure inspired by British folklore, solving a puzzle and trying to seal a rift between the spirit and human worlds. The experience can be played in about 20 minutes or extended over a day.
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.
Exhibition - The Rossettis: Siblings and Spouses
7 Oct–8 Nov (another 30 days)
An exhibition at Wightwick Manor explores the artistic and literary legacy of the Rossetti family and their circle, featuring new acquisitions, rediscovered drawings and rarely seen works. It examines the family’s relationships, upbringing and creative work.
Wightwick Manor is a Victorian era Arts and Crafts house near Wolverhampton, showcasing original William Morris designs and a significant Pre-Raphaelite art collection, set in 17 acres of gardens and woodland with an additional De Morgan Gallery in the adjoining Old Manor. It is owned by the National Trust and open to the public with a café and shops onsite.
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.
Attic Tours (Weekdays)
6–7 Oct, 13–14 Oct…
A guided tour of Dunster Castle’s attics explores hidden rooms and corridors and the lives of the servants who once lived there. The tour involves climbing a spiral staircase.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Bess's Dream
7 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
Bess’s Dream is a display in Bess of Hardwick’s bedroom exploring her life and the thoughts and memories that may have featured in her dreams near the end of her life. It features her letters, a 400-year-old gown and an eight-minute film.
Stainsby Mill is a restored 19th-century flour watermill in Derbyshire, England, now operated by the National Trust within the Hardwick Hall estate. Visitors can experience both the historic indoor milling machinery and the scenic outdoor mill pond and surroundings.
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 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.
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.
‘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.
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.
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.
Anglo-Saxon costume demonstration
7 Oct, 10 Oct…
Historic costume volunteers demonstrate Anglo-Saxon clothing and accessory-making skills, including spinning, dyeing, leatherwork, basket making and weaving.
Sutton Hoo is a historic estate featuring the Anglo-Saxon Royal Burial Ground with a viewing tower, Tranmer House museum, and the High Hall exhibition. Visitors can explore woodland trails, enjoy on-site food and shopping, and participate in family-friendly activities including an adventure playground.
Beyond the View: Canaletto at Tatton
7–11 Oct, 14–18 Oct…
An exhibition exploring Samuel Egerton’s journey from Cheshire to Venice and his connection to Canaletto. Visitors can see rare paintings, letters and artefacts, digital installations, and Tatton Park’s Canaletto masterpieces.
Tatton Park in Cheshire is a vast historic estate featuring an opulently decorated 18th-century mansion, extensive landscaped gardens including Japanese and Italian styles, a working rare breed farm, and 1,000 acres of deer park with wildlife and trails. Visitors can enjoy dining, shopping, and a variety of family-friendly outdoor and indoor activities.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Yoga at Grantham House
9–10 Oct, 16–17 Oct…
A gentle vinyasa flow yoga class led by Grow Your Wings Yoga, with mindful movement and breathing in Grantham House’s restored rooms or outdoor spaces depending on the weather.
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.
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.
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.
Learn to Nordic walk at Wallington
11 Oct, 8 Nov…
A beginner Nordic walking session at Wallington includes instruction in the technique and its benefits, followed by a two-mile walk in the grounds and a cool-down stretch.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Fused Glass Workshop with Suzie Lavender: Snowmen & Snowflakes and Festive Decorations
11 Oct (this Sunday)
A hands-on fused-glass workshop led by artist Suzie Lavender, with morning and afternoon sessions focused on making festive decorations. Participants learn glass-fusing techniques and create pieces to be kiln-fired after the workshop.
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.
Belton Circular Walk - Parkland
8 Oct
Join a volunteer ranger for a circular walk through Belton Estate’s parkland and woodland, with views of the River Witham and opportunities to learn about local wildlife, habitats, conservation and the estate’s history.
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.
Silent Space
9 Oct, 16 Oct…
Silent Space is a quiet place in Polesden Lacey’s Upper Sunken Garden where visitors can pause, relax and take in the surrounding nature and changing seasons. It runs on Friday afternoons.
Polesden Lacey is an Edwardian era country house and estate in Surrey, offering visitors a blend of indoor historical exhibits and outdoor estate walks, gardens, and woodland. Managed by the National Trust, it features fine art collections and hosts seasonal events including open-air performances.
Kitchen Garden Tours
6 May, 3 Jun…
Join a volunteer-led walking tour of Kingston Lacy’s Kitchen Garden to learn about its Victorian history, the Bankes family and how the garden is used to grow seasonal produce for the café.
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.
Exploring Clay Day
10 Oct (this Saturday)
Meet professional artists demonstrating clay techniques, ask questions, and try hands-on creative activities and clay making. The event includes interactive challenges and sessions for adults and children.
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.
The Rebels of Raby Talk with Castle Curator
10 Oct (this Saturday)
Raby Castle’s curator gives a talk exploring the castle’s connections to the Rising of the North, the Wars of the Roses and the political life of Sir Henry Vane the Younger. The ticket also grants access to the castle, deer park and gardens for the remainder of the day.
Raby Castle is a medieval fortress set in 200 acres of parkland in County Durham, offering historic interiors, a restored walled garden, deer parks, a woodland adventure playground, dining at The Vinery cafe, and a shop. Visitors can explore both indoor castle rooms and the extensive outdoor grounds featuring wildlife and gardens.
Killerton Harvest
3–4 Oct, 10–11 Oct
Killerton Harvest celebrates the estate’s apple-growing heritage with apple-themed games, apple pressing demonstrations, local produce stalls and vintage machinery displays. The programme also includes Morris dancing and live folk music, with apple picking available at Sparrow Park orchard.
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.
Belton Deer Rut Photography Walk
11 Oct, 13 Oct…
A guided walk through Belton’s parkland during the deer rut, led by photographer and volunteer ranger Jon Pear. Attendees can learn photography tips and hear about how the rangers care for the deer herd.
Full-day Landscape & Close-up Photography Workshops with Phil Morley
11 Oct (this Sunday)
A full-day photography workshop at Sutton Hoo with professional photographer Phil Morley, covering landscape and close-up photography. Participants can explore photography techniques and bring any type of camera.
Big Draw® - Hoo’s Up for Drawing?
7 Oct–8 Nov (another 30 days)
Visitors can take part in mindful drawing and sketching in the Discovery Room, contribute chalk artwork on the site’s walks, or borrow a sketching bag to use while exploring Sutton Hoo.
Sutton Hoo is a historic archaeological site of two 6th to 7th century Anglo-Saxon cemeteries near Woodbridge, Suffolk, with an impressive ship burial containing regalia, weaponry and treasures. The site offers both outdoor exploration of burial mounds and an indoor visitor centre showcasing original artefacts, replicas and exhibitions. It is a landmark for Anglo-Saxon history, art and archaeology.
Red Squirrel Awareness Day at Wallington
10 Oct (this Saturday)
Celebrate red squirrels with the Wallington ranger team. Visitors can colour in, learn facts about native red squirrels and guess how many nuts are in a jar.
Robert Adam bookcases - Exhibition
7 Oct–31 Dec (another 83 days)
An exhibition at Croome explores the history, craftsmanship and significance of Robert Adam’s 18th-century bookcases, which are being conserved for reinstatement in the house’s Library.
Garden tours at Croome 2026
8 Oct, 14–15 Oct…
Join a volunteer for an hour-long guided stroll through Croome’s garden, learning about its history, design, plants and statues.
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.
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.
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.
Mischief in Miniature
7 Oct–13 Dec (another 65 days)
Visitors explore Hill Top to spot needle-felted mice and miniature scenes inspired by Beatrix Potter’s The Tale of Two Bad Mice.
Hill Top Farm is a 17th-century historic house museum in Cumbria, England, that was once home to Beatrix Potter. Visitors can explore the preserved interior rooms furnished as in Potter's time and enjoy the surrounding garden maintained in the style of her illustrations. The venue offers a unique insight into the life and works of the beloved children's author in a picturesque Lakeland village setting.
Brambly Hedge at Hidcote
26 Sep–1 Nov, 6–8 Nov…
Visitors can follow a Brambly Hedge story trail through Hidcote, helping Primrose the mouse find her way home. The experience begins inside the Manor House and continues in the gardens, with miniature mouse homes, story scenes and interactive displays.
Kiftsgate Court Gardens is a family-run garden in the Cotswolds known for its rare plants, the renowned Kiftsgate rose, and beautifully designed garden areas across different seasons. Visitors can explore extensive outdoor gardens with spectacular views, enjoy a cafe, and shop on-site.
Garden Design Principles for Beginners
10 Oct (this Saturday)
A beginner workshop led by lecturer and author Christine Lavelle explores garden-design principles, including assessing a space, garden aspect, soil type, colour, plant choices and border design. Participants will consider how to plan and plant a garden to make effective use of its space.
RHS Garden Hyde Hall is a large garden in Essex featuring extensive collections of plants and shrubs, wide-open views of the countryside, and accessible paths. Visitors can enjoy on-site dining at two cafés and a garden centre offering plants and gifts. Entry requires a ticket or RHS membership, with discounts for car-free travel.
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.
Live music in the hall
7 Sep, 5 Oct
Local musicians perform live traditional music from England and Western Europe in Washington Old Hall, bringing the historic hall to life. Performances by duo Julie and William occur on the first Monday of the month, featuring music from the medieval period to the 20th century. No booking is needed, but venue admission charges apply.
Hylton Castle is a medieval stone castle ruin located in Sunderland, England, managed by English Heritage and surrounded by parkland. The site features heraldic devices on its western façade and an adjacent chapel and is protected as a Grade I listed building and scheduled monument. Restoration plans include community use with a café and exhibition spaces, making it a historical and cultural visitor attraction.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Stranger Folk at Lydford Gorge
2 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
Visitors use the Stranger Folk app to follow a folklore-themed adventure around Lydford Gorge, guided by the Crone and taking on a mission to seal a rift between the spirit and human worlds. The app also shares facts about local folklore along the waterfall trail.
Lydford Castle is a medieval castle in Devon, England, historically significant as an early purpose-built prison and a centre for forest and stannary law enforcement. Visitors can explore the castle ruins managed by English Heritage and the adjacent Anglo-Saxon earthworks owned by the National Trust, reflecting law, order, and medieval authority in the region.
‘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.
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.
Book Rummage
9–10 Oct (another 1 day)
A book sale in the lower parlour offers an eclectic range of books across different genres, available by donation.
Alfriston Clergy House is a modest 14th-century Wealden hall house in East Sussex, notable as the first property acquired by the National Trust. It features timber framing, a thatched roof, and a historic cottage garden, offering visitors an authentic glimpse into medieval domestic architecture.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Organs and Strings Concert by Saraband at Kenwood
10 Oct (this Saturday)
Saraband performs a concert at Kenwood featuring chamber organ, violins and cello.
Kenwood is a historic house located on Hampstead Heath featuring breathtaking interiors and a world-class art collection that visitors can enjoy for free. The venue includes tranquil landscaped gardens, children's activities, and a café, offering both indoor cultural experiences and extensive outdoor grounds to explore. It hosts seasonal events such as immersive Christmas light trails and exhibitions that appeal to families and art lovers alike.
Guided Tours of Shute Barton, 6 & 7 October 2026
6–7 Oct
Visitors can take a guided tour of Shute Barton, a historic house near Axminster. Tours are offered in timed slots.
Old Shute House is a Grade I listed medieval manor house in Devon, featuring a 14th-century great hall with the largest medieval fireplace in Britain, Tudor expansions, and an Elizabethan gatehouse. Managed by the National Trust, it offers a mix of historic indoor architecture and outdoor grounds reflecting centuries of English history.
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.
Quiet Time at Sandham Memorial Chapel
11 Oct (this Sunday)
Quiet Time is a monthly quieter visiting hour at Sandham Memorial Chapel, intended to offer a more peaceful experience for visitors who are neurodivergent, living with dementia, or seeking spiritual solace in Stanley Spencer’s paintings.
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.
Dusk deer walk
9 Oct
Join wildlife volunteers for an evening walk through Studley deer park to learn about its red, fallow and sika deer and see and hear the rut as the season begins.
Pop Up Shop hosted by National Trust
7–22 Oct (another 13 days)
Local nature photographer Ben Pullitz displays wildlife and landscape photographs in a pop-up shop at Lytes Cary Manor.
Lytes Cary is a Grade I listed historic manor house in Somerset dating from the 14th century, featuring a chapel, Great Hall with period furnishings, and extensive Arts and Crafts style gardens listed as Grade II. The National Trust owns the property and offers public access to the older parts of the house and the distinctive gardens set in themed 'rooms' with hedges, ponds, and an orchard.
Guided walks to South Foreland Lighthouse 2026
10 Oct (this Saturday)
Join a volunteer-led walk along the White Cliffs of Dover to South Foreland Lighthouse, hearing about the cliffs’ natural and human history and seeing wartime remains and coastal views. At the lighthouse, the guide gives a brief introduction before visitors can explore the grounds and make their own way back.
The White Cliffs of Dover offer dramatic cliff-top walks with stunning views over the English Channel, historic WWII tunnels tours, and a striking Victorian lighthouse. Visitors can enjoy walking trails, a café with panoramic views, and a play area, making it suitable for families and history enthusiasts alike.
Located in Dover
Dover is a historic English town and major ferry port in Kent, known for its White Cliffs, castle, maritime heritage, and vibrant cultural and retail scene, accessible by train and local transport.
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.
Silent walking disco at Prior Park
11 Oct, 24 Oct
An early-morning silent walking disco at Prior Park, with attendees invited to sing, dance and walk around the lakes and across the Palladian bridge.
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.
Kitchen Garden Sale at Marble Hill
8 Oct, 15 Oct…
A weekly sale of seasonal produce grown by Marble Hill’s volunteer gardeners, including fresh vegetables and cut flowers. Visitors can browse and buy produce at the north-east corner of Marble Hill Park.
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.
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.
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.
Family Fungi Walk
11 Oct, 18 Oct…
A family walk on Mottistone Down to identify autumn fungi and hear facts, myths and folklore about toadstools. The route may involve leaving the main path to get a closer look.
Mottistone Manor is a National Trust property on the Isle of Wight known for its historic manor house dating back to the 15th century and its popular gardens. The house is generally not open to the public except for one day per year, offering visitors a glimpse of historic architecture and landscaped gardens.
parkrun
10 Oct, 17 Oct…
A weekly community 5k at Wimpole Estate where participants can walk, jog, run, volunteer or spectate. The event takes place on Saturday mornings and has no time limit.
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 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.
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.
Seasonal Gardening - Autumn
8 Oct
A seasonal gardening workshop led by RHS Rosemoor’s Garden Manager, featuring a guided walk and practical demonstrations of autumn tasks such as planting bulbs, dividing perennials and caring for lawns.
Anglesey Abbey: Made and Remade
8 Oct, 13 Oct…
A talk with Anglesey Abbey house guides explores how the site changed from a medieval religious site into a country house and how Lord Fairhaven reshaped it through architecture, art, gardens and collecting. It includes stories about items in the collection, including paintings by Claude Lorrain and Canova’s Amorino.
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.
Guided Walk from Gunby to Bratoft Manor
10–11 Oct, 17–18 Oct…
Join a guided, three-mile walk from Gunby to Bratoft Manor, passing through the former medieval village of Gunby. A guide shares information about the estate’s history and natural features along the route.
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.
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.
Explore Quarry Bank with HistoryScapes
7 Oct–1 Nov, 4–8 Nov…
Explore Quarry Bank using the HistoryScapes app, which brings the history of the historic landscape to life through an outdoor trail. The pilot project aims to help visitors discover more about the site’s history.
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.
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.
Garden tour - Houses and Ha-Has: It's a Family Affair
9 Oct, 23 Oct…
A garden history tour at Berrington Hall explores the work of Capability Brown and Henry Holland, including the grounds, house and their wider historical context. Led by garden guide Nick St George, the outdoor walk lasts about 1 hour 15 minutes.
Berrington Hall is a neoclassical country house near Leominster, Herefordshire, featuring Capability Brown's last landscape design and a collection of historic furnishings and costumes. Visitors can explore both the elegant interiors and extensive gardens managed by the National Trust.
Free Tour Mondays at Chedworth Roman Villa
2 Mar, 9 Mar…
A one-hour guided tour of Chedworth Roman Villa explores why it was built, its possible owners, how its way of life was sustained, and what its discovery and recent excavations have revealed. Tours run hourly from 11am to 2pm on Mondays from March to October 2026.
Needles New Battery Tour
9 Oct, 16 Oct…
A guided tour of the Needles New Battery explores its history as a coastal defence site and later as a Cold War rocket-testing base, including the development of the Black Knight and Black Arrow rockets.
The Needles are distinctive chalk sea stacks off the Isle of Wight, featuring a historic lighthouse, scenic boat tours, and former military sites including batteries and a rocket test site, all accessible to the public and protected within natural and scientific conservation areas.
History Strolls
11 Oct, 18 Oct…
A Sunday morning walk around Wimpole Estate featuring an educational talk about the estate’s history, landscape and people.
Longstowe Hall features magnificent Edwardian gardens with seasonal flower displays and historic parkland, complemented by a squash court cafe serving local dishes. Visitors can explore expansive gardens, ancient woodland, lakes, and enjoy wheelchair accessible paths with some uneven terrain.
Parkrun iau | Junior parkrun
11 Oct, 18 Oct…
A free weekly 2 km junior parkrun for children aged 4 to 14, who can run, jog or walk the course at their own pace. The route consists of two loops through the gardens, starting at the top and finishing by the house.
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.
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 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.
Wildlife art trail at Parke
7 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
Visitors can follow a trail around the Parke Estate to find six large wildlife artworks created by pupils as part of an environmental project, and learn about the project and the featured native species.
Parke is a peaceful woodland estate near Bovey Tracey, Devon, offering scenic walks, a walled garden, riverside wildlife, and a café. It's ideal for outdoor activities, dog walking, and family-friendly exploration close to Dartmoor's edge.
Bovey Tracey is a historic market town in Devon on the edge of Dartmoor, known for its listed buildings, crafts, festivals, and outdoor activities.
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.
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.
Antiques Valuation Event with Charles Hanson
9 Oct
Attendees can bring up to three small antiques, collectables, jewellery or curiosities for appraisal by auctioneer and antiques expert Charles Hanson.
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.
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.
Conservation in Action at Chartwell
7 Oct
Chartwell’s Collections conservators give live demonstrations of preventive conservation work and answer questions about the collections and Churchill’s heritage.
Toys Hill is a large woodland area in Kent known for its scenic walking paths, diverse wildlife, and historical landmarks including a bat tower and old manor ruins. Visitors can enjoy peaceful walks, nature observation, and the natural beauty of the Greensand Ridge.
The Pikachu Art Adventure at Nostell
7 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
Explore 30 Pikachu trading cards illustrated by different artists, learn facts about the character and design a Pikachu trading card of your own.
Nostell Priory is a historic Palladian house in West Yorkshire, England, featuring original 18th-century furnishings, extensive parkland with lakeside walks, notable artwork and furniture collections, and a rich monastic history dating back to the 12th century.
Guided wider estate walks - Learn about foraging
9 Oct
A guided walk with a local foraging specialist explores Arlington Court’s hedgerows, stream edges and trees. Participants learn to identify local edible plants and poisonous lookalikes, as well as hearing about the folklore and medicinal uses of plants.
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.
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.
A Regency Autumn
9–13 Oct, 16–20 Oct…
A Regency-themed event exploring autumn social life in Salisbury, including the harvest, the social season and the Glorious Twelfth. It also covers Regency-era All Hallows’ Eve, Gothic literature and folklore.
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.
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.
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.
Claife Viewing Station and Windermere West Shore offer stunning panoramic lake views from a historic viewing platform with coloured glass, combined with extensive outdoor walking and cycling trails along England's largest lake. Visitors can enjoy a cosy café, wildlife, and family-friendly activities in a beautiful natural setting with accessible lakeshore paths.
Stored secrets exhibition
7 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
An exhibition at Castle Drogo revealing unusual objects kept in the house’s collection, including items requiring special storage and large objects displayed in custom-built frames.
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.
Afternoon tea at Hidcote Gardens
7–9 Oct, 12–16 Oct…
Guests can enjoy a traditional sweet or savoury afternoon tea in Winthrop’s Café at Hidcote, with sandwiches, savoury items, scones, cakes and tea or coffee.
Hidcote Bartrim is a Grade I-listed Arts and Crafts-inspired garden in Gloucestershire featuring 10.5 acres of garden rooms with diverse atmospheres and named plant varieties, gifted to the National Trust by its creator Major Lawrence Johnston.
Twilight, Stones & Sweet Indulgence: An Exclusive Giant's Causeway Experience
8 Oct
This adults-only evening begins with a guided twilight walk to the Giant’s Causeway stones, followed by a chocolate-tasting masterclass and a live truffle-making demonstration paired with local gin. The experience also includes hot chocolate and a chocolate bar to take home.
The Giant's Causeway in County Antrim, Northern Ireland, features approximately 40,000 unique interlocking basalt columns formed by ancient volcanic activity. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a national nature reserve, offering visitors the experience of walking on natural basalt formations at the coast with notable geological and wildlife interest. Access to the natural site is free of charge, managed largely by the National Trust.
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 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.
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.
A Rothschild Treasury: Tours
10 Oct (this Saturday)
A 45-minute guided tour explores selected objects in A Rothschild Treasury, sharing stories about their history and the Rothschild family’s collecting tradition.
Relaxed House Openings
9 Oct
A relaxed opening of Waddesdon Manor’s historic house, with reduced noise, no videos and flexible entry and exit times for visitors who would benefit from a calmer visit. It is designed for neurodivergent adults and children, along with their family, friends or carers.
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.
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.
Wednesday health walk
7 Oct, 28 Oct…
A sociable guided coastal walk led by Trevor and John, with opportunities to enjoy the views and spot wildlife. The walk returns to the Lighthouse Café.
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.
Killerton parkrun
10 Oct, 17 Oct…
Killerton parkrun is a free weekly 5k community event where participants can walk, jog or run the cross-country route, or volunteer or spectate.
Fursdon House is a historic Georgian manor with centuries of family heritage, offering guided tours of the house, beautiful landscaped gardens, and a tearoom serving local treats. Visitors can enjoy scenic views, children's play area, and pet-friendly outdoor spaces.
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.
Journeys - Global Garden Tour
9 Oct
A guided tour of Blickling Estate’s gardens explores the global journeys of its plants and how trade, travel and cultural exchange have shaped the landscape. Led by gardener Bill Adamson, the tour also considers seasonal changes and the gardens’ response to climate change.
The National Trust Textile Conservation Studio in Norfolk specializes in the conservation and care of historic textiles, providing expert treatments and guided group tours by appointment in an accessible, modern facility.
Attic Tours (Weekends)
11 Oct, 18 Oct…
A guided tour of Dunster Castle’s attics explores hidden rooms and corridors and the daily lives of the servants who lived there.
Dunster Castle and Watermill in Somerset offer a rich experience combining a historic castle, working Victorian watermill, beautiful gardens, and scenic parkland with panoramic views. Visitors can explore the castle interiors, gardens with diverse plants, enjoy family-friendly activities, and visit cafés and shops on site.
Meet the Experts: Wet-Nursing the Foundling Babies
9 Oct
A talk exploring the history of wet-nursing in England and its role in feeding babies brought to the Foundling Hospital. Attendees can hear about the experiences of wet nurses and infants, followed by an opportunity to ask questions; the talk is available in person or online.
The Foundling Museum in London tells the history of the 18th-century Foundling Hospital, featuring art collections and historic interiors, with full wheelchair accessibility and facilities for children.
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.
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.
Little Hoo-ligans Parent and Toddler Group
8 Oct, 12 Nov…
Little Hoo-ligans is an outdoor parent and toddler group for children aged 2 to 4 and their parents or guardians. Attendees can take part in activities such as trails, crafts, games and songs.
Kyson Hill in Woodbridge, Suffolk, offers grassy slopes, specimen trees, and views of the estuary, ideal for walking and relaxation in an outdoor natural setting. It features walking trails through woodland, mudflats, and estuarine ecosystems and allows dogs on leads. The site is accessible via footpath from Woodbridge Railway Station and has benches for resting, but the terrain is uneven and not wheelchair accessible.
Sound to Sketch - The Big Draw
7 Oct, 10–11 Oct…
Visitors can borrow a sketching bag and use its drawing materials to create their own pictures inspired by Tattershall Castle, its towers, moat and grounds.
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.
Grantham House Guided History Talk
9 Oct, 16 Oct…
A volunteer-led talk and tour exploring Grantham House’s history from the 15th century to the present and the people who lived there. The tour may include access to parts of the building not usually open to the public.
Harlaxton Manor is a large Victorian-era manor house in Lincolnshire, renowned for its unique blend of Elizabethan, Jacobean, and Baroque architectural styles, with accessible interior facilities and historic tours available by appointment.
Sculpture exhibition in Avebury Manor Garden
5 Sep–18 Oct (another 9 days)
An outdoor sculpture exhibition displays works by more than 20 artists across the 11 garden rooms at Avebury Manor. Visitors can explore the sculptures among the garden’s seasonal planting; the works are also available to buy.
Avebury Manor & Garden is a historic National Trust property featuring a Grade I listed early 16th-century manor house with period interiors and meticulously designed formal gardens, located in the village of Avebury near the famous neolithic henge monument. The venue offers both indoor exploration of historical interiors and outdoor enjoyment of the gardens, reflecting centuries of architectural and garden design history.
'Jersey's' Story
23 May–1 Nov (another 23 days)
A display at Saltram brings together two companion portraits by Joshua Reynolds and explores the story of ‘Jersey’, an enslaved boy depicted in one of them. Visitors can encounter historical research and conservation insights through audio, scent and touch.
Saltram House is a well-preserved Georgian country house near Plympton, Devon, featuring exquisite interiors by Robert Adam and a fine art collection including works by Joshua Reynolds. The estate includes expansive gardens and parkland, offering both indoor and outdoor visitor experiences.
Coffee afternoon by the sea with Age Concern Tyneside South
8 Oct, 15 Oct…
A dementia-friendly coffee afternoon hosted by Age Concern Tyneside South at Whitburn Coastal Conservation Centre. Attendees can chat with others or take part in activities such as games, knitting, arts and crafts.
Souter Lighthouse, managed by the National Trust, is a historic lighthouse showcasing pioneering electric lighting technology and maritime heritage. Visitors can explore the lighthouse tower, engine room, and keepers' quarters as well as outdoor areas including a play area for children and enjoy special demonstrations of the lamps and foghorn.
Chartwell 60 - Your Chartwell Memories Display
7–16 Oct (another 7 days)
An outdoor display marking 60 years since Chartwell opened to the public, featuring memories and stories shared by its visitors. Visitors can wander through the display and explore personal connections to the house and grounds.
Toys Hill is a hamlet in Kent known for its scenic viewpoint from a steep wooded escarpment, extensive National Trust woodland, and significant natural conservation value as a Site of Special Scientific Interest.
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.
Magical Potion trail at Antony
7–8 Oct, 13–15 Oct…
Visitors follow clues through Antony’s house and gardens to find ingredients for an enchanted potion. Halloween costumes are encouraged.
Antony House is an early 18th-century Grade I listed historic house museum in Cornwall, featuring fine 18th-century furnishings and a notable art collection. It is complemented by Georgian landscaped gardens and a large woodland garden with walking paths, offering both indoor and outdoor visitor experiences.
Torpoint is a planned town on the Rame Peninsula in southeast Cornwall, notable for its ferry link to Plymouth, historical roots, and naval training connections offering a scenic riverside visit.
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 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.
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.
Our Place, Our Marks - the Big Draw
7–31 Oct (another 22 days)
Visitors can slow down and take in the sights and sounds of Gunby Estate, then use chalk to add their own drawing to a collaborative artwork in the Garden. The artwork grows through the season as visitors contribute.
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.
Walks & Talks tours
7 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
Join a volunteer-led walk along the historic route taken by the Hoare family and their guests, and hear about the history of Stourhead and its landscape garden. Tours last approximately 1 to 1.5 hours.
Alfred's Tower is a 49-meter high folly tower located in Somerset, England, commemorating King Alfred the Great and historic events from the 9th century. It features a viewing platform accessible by spiral staircase and offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The tower is part of the National Trust and stands on the historic Stourhead Estate.
Behind the Scenes Tour
7 Oct, 13–14 Oct…
A volunteer guide leads visitors through areas of Nunnington Hall that are normally closed to the public, introducing collection objects and the work involved in preserving the hall.
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.
Bowl Carving with Woodmatters
8 Oct
Participants carve a trough bowl from local greenwood using traditional hand tools, with guidance from Woodmatters.
Holehird Gardens is a 10-acre fellside garden featuring spectacular views over Windermere, diverse plant collections, woodland walks, and a walled garden. Visitors can enjoy national plant collections and new accessible paths amid wildflower meadows and herbaceous borders.
Windermere is a Cumbria town within the Lake District National Park known for its proximity to Windermere lake and scenic surroundings, offering rail and bus access, local amenities, and boat trips on the lake.
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.
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.
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.
Threads of Identity Exhibition - 'The Final Act'
7 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
An exhibition presents garments from Charles Wade’s Snowshill Costume Collection, exploring clothing, cultural identity, personal expression and social history.
Stanway House is a Jacobean manor house set in Gloucestershire with historic interiors, a water garden featuring the highest gravity fountain in the world, and extensive parkland. Visitors can explore the house, gardens, and enjoy the fountain shows in summer months.
Women of Oxford Road Walking Tour
8 Oct
A guided walking tour explores the stories of women associated with Manchester’s Oxford Road Corridor, including Elizabeth Gaskell. The walk finishes at Elizabeth Gaskell’s House, where attendees can visit the house.
Elizabeth Gaskell’s House in Manchester is the former home of the English novelist, offering a unique experience with period rooms, a re-imagined garden, interactive Victorian house activities, and a Tea Room. The venue is wheelchair accessible and provides engaging tours and facilities for families and groups.
The Very Hungry Caterpillar™ trail
9–12 Oct, 16 Oct–2 Nov
Follow a trail inspired by The Very Hungry Caterpillar, spotting fruits and snacks and discovering facts about the caterpillar-to-butterfly transformation. The trail includes games and activities around the stable-yard and gardens.
Sudbury Hall is a historic Restoration-era English country house in Derbyshire with a renowned Great Staircase and fine art collection, featuring a National Trust Museum of Childhood that offers interactive and child-friendly exhibits within its restored interiors and surrounding grounds.
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.
Outdoor Tour: Introduction to Attingham
7 Oct, 14 Oct…
A 30–45 minute outdoor guided walk introducing the family and fortune of Attingham Park.
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.
Astolat Model Railway Circle Open Day
10 Oct (this Saturday)
Visitors can view model railway layouts, try operating them, and learn how they are built. Attendees can also bring OO/HO or N locomotives to run, and browse railway and transport books in the second-hand bookshop.
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.
Loseley Park’s Walled Garden in Guildford offers a summer garden experience with diverse themed sections including a rose garden, white garden, and organic vegetable garden, set within two and a half acres of pathways. The garden has parking, refreshments, and plant sales available but only allows assistance dogs.
Bat Walks
10 Oct (this Saturday)
Join the Osterley ranger team for a guided dusk walk to learn about bats, listen to their echolocation calls using bat detectors and watch for them as they emerge.
Osterley offers one of London's last country estates featuring an 18th-century house surrounded by extensive parkland, formal gardens with rare plants, and historic garden structures.
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.
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.
Glasshouse Chilli Tours
9 Oct
A volunteer-led tour in the Wimpole Estate Glasshouse explores the range of sweet and hot peppers growing there, with visitors able to see the chillies ripening.
Craft Club
8 Oct, 12 Nov…
Craft Club is a monthly drop-in gathering for people to bring their own craft projects, share what they are making and craft alongside others. Limited materials are available for those who want to try a new craft.
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.
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.
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.
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 is a historic motte and bailey castle and 17th-century manor house in Somerset, featuring medieval gates, Victorian Gothic remodeling, and extensive gardens including a National Plant Collection. It offers both indoor and outdoor experiences as a National Trust property.
Wandering Wolves
7–11 Oct, 14–18 Oct…
A free spotter activity at Little Moreton Hall invites visitors to look for the wolf on the Moreton family crest and find wolves hidden around the hall and courtyard.
Little Moreton Hall is a historic 16th-century half-timbered moated manor house near Congleton, Cheshire. It features well-preserved Tudor architecture, extensive gardens, and a famous Long Gallery. Visitors can explore the restored house interiors, enjoy the gardens, and dine in the on-site restaurant, making it a comprehensive historic and outdoor experience.
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.
Maidenhead and Cookham Commons is a vast natural reserve in Berkshire offering diverse outdoor landscapes including riverbanks, woodlands, meadows, and walking trails. Ideal for families and dog walkers, the commons provide historical and natural exploration amidst open countryside.
Who's in Your Book?
7 Oct–8 Nov (another 30 days)
Families can follow an interactive outdoor trail through Baddesley Clinton’s gardens, finding characters from Tom Fletcher’s Who’s in Your Book? series and completing playful challenges. The trail ends with a photo opportunity in a giant book cut-out.
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.
Specialist Garden Talks
7 Oct, 14 Oct
Join the gardeners for a short talk on a different garden theme each week, covering what is looking good, gardening tips and the work carried out by the team. Talks meet at the garden entrance and may include a gentle stroll around the garden.
Exmoor Zoo is a conservation centre in North Devon, specializing in rare and smaller animals with a focus on conservation breeding programmes. It offers outdoor animal exhibits including rare carnivores and birds, alongside visitor facilities including the African Café. The zoo provides an engaging family-friendly experience in a scenic national park setting.
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.
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.
Expert talks: Kate Cotterill from She Grows Veg
9 Oct
Kate Cotterill of She Grows Veg introduces heirloom vegetables, explaining what makes these heritage varieties special and how to grow them. Attendees can bring questions for an interactive vegetable-gardening Q&A.
The River Wey and Godalming Navigations offer a 20-mile navigable waterway in Surrey, featuring historic locks and scenic towpaths managed by the National Trust, with connections to other canals and a visitor centre at Dapdune Wharf showcasing historic barges.
Lightwaves Lantern Making Workshop
9 Oct
Participants make and decorate a moving-wing butterfly lantern from paper and willow, guided by artists from Lumo Workshop. The lanterns are intended to feature in the Lightwaves parade at Sutton on Sea.
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.
Katherine Miles Willow Sculptures 'Autumn'
8 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
An exhibition of Katherine Miles’s autumn-themed willow sculptures, made using Somerset willow and foraged materials from Dartmoor. The exhibited pieces are available to buy.
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.
Imagining India | Exhibition (July - Nov)
11–13 Oct, 18–20 Oct…
Visitors begin with a short introductory talk before exploring three rooms of historic objects from Attingham’s collection inspired by India, including a conserved panoramic artwork and related prints, ceramics, books, clocks, militaria and miniatures.
Longner Hall is a Regency Gothic house designed by John Nash, set in a park landscaped by Humphrey Repton, offering guided tours of its Tudor gothic-style interiors featuring plaster fan vaulting and stained glass.
Made in Shropshire Artisan Fair
11 Oct (this Sunday)
A fair in the grounds of Dudmaston Hall featuring around 30 local stalls selling handmade art, crafts and food. Visitors can browse the stalls and meet local makers.
Dudmaston Hall is a 17th-century country house and estate in Shropshire featuring historic architecture, extensive gardens, parkland, woodlands, lakes, and a distinguished collection of modern art. Visitors can explore both indoor historic interiors and outdoor landscaped grounds within a traditional English country estate setting.
Oxburgh Hall; Immersive Gatehouse Experience
7 Oct, 21 Oct…
Visitors experience a dramatised day in 1590, exploring the Bedingfeld family’s history of Catholic persecution and the priest hole at Oxburgh. The immersive experience takes place in the King’s Room.
Standen Workshops: William Morris fruit embossed copper ornaments
7 Oct
A hands-on workshop introducing metal embossing techniques and copper preparation, with participants making decorative hanging ornaments inspired by William Morris fruit designs. Materials are provided, and the finished ornaments can be taken home.
Hammerwood Park is a historic country house in Sussex designed by architect B H Latrobe, open for guided tours during summer which explore its rich architectural and social history. Visitors can enjoy both the restored interiors and the surrounding parkland gardens, with facilities including a café and pet-friendly 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.
New Ideas and Old Loves: Sissinghurst and Italy
26 Sep 2026–6 Jun 2027 (another 240 days)
An exhibition exploring the influence of Italy on Vita Sackville-West and Harold Nicolson, featuring objects, love letters, photographs and multimedia experiences.
Sissinghurst Castle Garden in Kent is a renowned historic garden created by Vita Sackville-West and Harold Nicolson, featuring an influential series of garden rooms, including the iconic White Garden. Located on Tudor-era estate buildings, it showcases a vast collection of old garden roses and other plants, attracting large numbers of visitors and managed by the National Trust.
Music@Malling - event at Ightham Mote: Deborah Pritchard’s Music Maps
7 Oct–1 Nov (another 23 days)
An exhibition of prints of Deborah Pritchard’s Music Maps, paintings that explore the character and structure of music by her and other contemporary composers. The works are displayed in the Old Chapel at Ightham Mote.
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.
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 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.
Wild Brushes - Brush-Making Workshop
8 Oct
Participants make a paintbrush from natural materials and try it out with inks to create expressive marks inspired by Sutton Hoo’s landscape. The workshop is led by Artist in Residence Amanda Warren.
Walk for Wellness
8 Oct, 15 Oct…
A gentle guided walk around the park, offering time to move, enjoy the fresh air and connect with nature at your own pace.
Melford Hall is a historic Grade I listed stately home in Suffolk with 16th-century origins and Tudor architecture. Owned by the National Trust and open to the public seasonally, it offers a blend of both indoor historic house tours and extensive outdoor grounds hosting events.
Extinction
8 Oct–8 Nov (another 30 days)
An exhibition exploring extinction, from the demise of dinosaurs and ice age mammoths to the effects of human activity on wildlife. Visitors can explore information panels, replica objects, interactive displays and historic engravings, including images of prehistoric life.
Ushaw is a historic house, chapels, and gardens near Durham City offering visitors both indoor heritage spaces and extensive outdoor parkland. Designed by Augustus Pugin with accessible facilities, it features events, a cafe, and family friendly amenities including dog-friendly grounds.
Garden Tours - Mornings
8–9 Oct, 12–16 Oct…
Join a guided tour through Sizergh’s garden and plant collection. Guides discuss the garden’s history and development, current and future projects, and seasonal highlights.
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.
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.
Guided garden walks
8–9 Oct, 12–14 Oct…
Volunteer guides lead tours of Dyrham Park’s garden, highlighting seasonal blooms, its history and upcoming projects.
Hamswell House is a historic 16th-century house offering exclusive marquee weddings surrounded by 50 acres of gardens and private land with panoramic valley views, featuring wheelchair access and outdoor as well as indoor spaces.
Belton Dog Walk
10 Oct, 14 Nov
Join a dog ranger for a leisurely circular walk around Belton Estate, learning about the Brownlow family's dogs and experiencing the estate's habitats, landscapes and wildlife.
Parent Pop with Hannah Morse
9 Oct, 16 Oct…
Parent Pop is a music session for parents and children aged 0–4, bringing them together to sing pop classics and move to the music.
The Firs is the birthplace cottage of composer Edward Elgar, located in Worcestershire. It operates as a museum showcasing Elgar's memorabilia including manuscripts, letters, and personal items, housed in the historic cottage and the modern Elgar Centre.
Stowey Surrounds | Walks Programme
8 Oct
A guided walk through the countryside around Nether Stowey, exploring the woodland, valleys and landscapes that inspired Samuel Taylor Coleridge. A walk leader accompanies attendees on the route.
Coleridge Cottage is a 17th century historic cottage in Nether Stowey, Somerset, where poet Samuel Taylor Coleridge lived and wrote some of his famous works. Now a National Trust writer's home museum, it features period rooms, a garden with wildflowers, and serves as the starting point for the Coleridge Way walking trail.
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.
David Garrick and Huguenot music in England
11 Oct (this Sunday)
Bloomsbury Baroque present a concert celebrating actor David Garrick and his connections with France and the Huguenot community. Music by distinguished composers is interspersed with short narratives about Garrick and the Huguenots.
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.
UK Fungus Day Foray at Lanhydrock
11 Oct (this Sunday)
A UK Fungus Day event at Lanhydrock featuring guided fungi walks led by Cornwall Fungi Group, close-up mushroom viewing under a microscope and a table for displaying fungi finds.
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.
Living Literature: a poetry walk with Gateshead Libraries
8 Oct
Join the Gateshead Libraries team for a guided walk through Gibside’s gardens, hearing poetry and prose from different periods that reflect the autumn season. Attendees are welcome to bring a favourite poem to share.
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.
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.
Walk through time at Malham Tarn
9 Oct
A volunteer-led 7km walk around Malham Tarn explores the landscape’s formation and local history, including stories of glaciers, cave men, monks and drovers. The route follows grassed paths and estate tracks, with stops to hear about points of interest and a lunch break.
Malham Tarn Estate in the Yorkshire Dales offers extensive outdoor experiences including a National Nature Reserve with boardwalks, diverse walking trails, and natural wildlife habitats. It is dog friendly, offers scenic countryside and woodland walks suitable for families, and provides mobility support through Tramper hire.
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 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.
Autumn Fused Glass Workshop
9 Oct
A beginner-friendly fused glass workshop introducing basic glass-fusing skills. Participants can create coasters or light catchers and small hangers or keyrings; finished pieces are available to collect from Belmont House 14 days later.
Belmont House is a beautifully preserved Georgian neo-classical country house in Kent featuring impressive collections of clocks and furniture. Visitors can explore both the historic interiors and the surrounding gardens, with guided tours available and facilities including a cafe, picnic area, and events for children.
Turning back time tour
11 Oct, 18 Oct…
A tour at Treasurer’s House explores the lives and legends of some of its former residents, tracing the history of the house and its connections to York.
Coppergate Shopping Centre is an open-air shopping venue in York featuring covered walkways, public squares, cafes, shops, and the Jorvik Viking Centre museum. It hosts seasonal displays and cultural events.
SOIL at Sizergh exhibition
7–20 Oct (another 11 days)
An immersive exhibition in Sizergh’s Great Barn featuring work by local and national artists inspired by soil.