10 family-friendly things to do this Spring at Hughenden

If you want to explore on your own, we have 10 ideas which might help you on your way:

1. Floral Scavenger Hunt

Create a list of different flowers that bloom in spring and challenge your family to find and identify them during a leisurely walk through the gardens. Keep an eye out for daffodils, hyacinths, and forget-me-nots on the parterre.

2. Find the best view

Explore the estate to find the best springtime views. Whether it's overlooking the lush greenery from the east side of the Manor or taking in the blooming landscape on the Monument Walk. Make sure to bring your camera to capture your favourite.

3. Birdwatching Bonanza

Grab your binoculars and bird identification book and set out on a birdwatching expedition. Spring is a bustling time for avian activity as migratory birds return and local species begin nesting.

4. Spot the signs of spring

Look closer for those tiny buds appearing on trees and early plants sprouting from the ground, or listen to the sounds around you - new birds are returning to Hughenden to nest, and with so many acres of trees to choose from, who can blame them?

5. Have a picnic

Picnics aren't just for summer. Wrap up warm, bring a blanket (the waterproof ones are the best to avoid soggy bottoms) and find a spot to sip hot chocolate and enjoy a brisk alfresco lunch. Maybe even plan some energetic picnic games, there's nothing like a bit of movement to keep you warm, and entertained!

6. Build an excellent Den

Be an outdoor architect and build a den fit for a nobleman. Hide in it and stay safe from the elements, just like the ancient people from long ago would have done, imagine what it would be like to build your own house for survival. You could make a mini manor for some of the wildlife animals to explore later. Maybe a rabbit or squirrel family will play in your creation after you’ve left for home.

7. Make a piece of natural art

Take four sticks and make a frame to start your own piece of art. Search for natural materials, such as leaves, seeds and pine cones to arrange inside your frame. Think about make a pattern or image such as a person or place. Perhaps you could create a natural portrait of Disraeli, or a landscape with the Hughenden Manor house.

8. Climb a really big hill

Get stronger and faster by climbing a really big hill. Feel your heart beating in your chest and your muscles getting warmer as you walk or try running up the slope. How far can you run uphill? Can you feel gravity pulling you and making it feel hard.

9. Woodland Exploration

Take a leisurely stroll along the color-coded trails and immerse yourself in the wonders of the woodland. Keep an eye out for wildlife as you explore the estate. Look out for birds, bees, squirrels and other creatures that call Hughenden home. Can you find any animal tracks? How many toes do they have and do they have claw marks?

10. Butterfly Hunt

Search for fluttering butterflies as they emerge from hibernation and take flight in the warming spring air. Bring along a butterfly guide to help identify different species.