Family days out with the National Trust this February half term
From seasonal crafts and activities to outdoor trails and winter wildlife, there’s lots to keep young explorers busy this half term at the National Trust’s places in Shropshire, Staffordshire and the West Midlands.
With miles of gardens, parkland and countryside to explore on those crisp winter days and indoor activities for when the rain sets in, there’s plenty to do, whatever the February weather brings.
The National Trust’s cosy tearooms offer warming treats and kids lunch packs, and the shops have lovely selections of pocket money toys for little ones to browse.
Here’s a round-up of the half term events and activities at the National Trust’s places in Shropshire, Staffordshire and the West Midlands.
Shropshire
Attingham Park
The magical carpets of snowdrops adorning the parkland are a real treat for all ages at this time of year. The best displays can be found in the woodland and the Mile Walk where they flourish in the damp, partially shaded areas. Attingham’s Regency mansion will also be open during half term so there’s plenty to explore, whatever the weather.
There’s also Spud the Otter’s Spring Trail, inviting children to head out on an adventure and discover the first signs of spring around Attingham. Trail sheets are £1 each (while stocks last). No booking required, normal admission applies.
Dudmaston Hall
Dudmaston’s parkland, playground, tearoom and second-hand bookshop will be open on weekends during the half term break (Saturday 14, Sunday 15, Saturday 21 and Sunday 22 February). A family stroll through the snowdrop-sprinkled Dingle is the perfect way to blow those cobwebs away and get the kids outside. Dogs on leads are welcome in all outdoor areas.
Dudmaston Estate - Comer Woods
Join the Nature Makers in Heath Meadow on Saturday 21 February for nature inspired arts and crafts. No need to book, just drop in from 10am-1pm (small charge applies for materials). There’s sports equipment to borrow in the meadow and the kids will love exploring the natural play area, riding their bikes along the Explorer Trail or taking a family stroll along one of the buggy-friendly walking trails, followed by a warming treat from the Cafe at Comer.
Benthall Hall
Step inside this family home of 500 years and discover stories from the Civil War through to the Industrial Revolution. At this time of year, hellebores, snowdrops and crocus are emerging in the garden as a reminder that spring is just around the corner. Refreshments are available from the Shepherd's Shed in the car park. Benthall Hall is open Saturday - Wednesday (closed Thursdays and Fridays) during half term 12-5pm.
Staffordshire
Shugborough Estate
There’s plenty to keep the kids entertained at Shugborough this half term, both indoors and out. Inside the house, the servants’ quarters will be open, showcasing all aspects of life ‘below stairs’ in the 17th and 18th centuries, while out on the estate, snowdrops, crocus and other early signs of spring can be found on a family stroll through the arboretum. Little explorers can join the Wandering Wellies Spotter Trail and the cosy tearoom is the perfect pitstop for a warming treat or drink.
Kinver Edge and the Rock Houses
Set off on a half term adventure on Kinver Edge. Children can build a den in the woodland, climb to the top of the Iron Age hillfort for panoramic views, or step back in time at the Rock Houses and imagine what it was like to live in a sandstone cave.
The Rock House Cafe offers light bites and lunches with beautiful views from the terrace and don’t miss the Book Nook – Kinver's quirky second-hand bookshop tucked away in a little cave.
West Midlands
Moseley Old Hall
Moseley Old Hall is the perfect place for relaxed family time, fun activities and time in the outdoors. Families can take part in the Green Man spotting trail (Saturday 14 – Sunday 22 February, free with a 50p suggested donation), join the Wassail with Wulfra Morris on Sunday 15 February, browse the second-hand book sale from Friday 13 – Sunday 22 February or get creative making a pinecone bird feeder on Wednesday 18 and Thursday 19 February (£2 per crafter). Normal admission applies for all events.
Wightwick Manor and Gardens
There is lots to enjoy at Wightwick Manor and Gardens this February half term, with activities for all ages. Follow the outdoor Wassail Trail from Saturday 14 – Sunday 22 February (free with a 50p suggested donation) and enjoy lively music at the Wassail with Beggars’ Oak Clog on Saturday 21 February. Normal admission applies for all events.
