Family fun at Baddesley Clinton

child walking along a log in a natural play area

Baddesley is the perfect place for a family day. Whatever the season, there's plenty of adventures to be had from spotting birds on the lakeside walk, discover what's growing in the vegetable garden, or simply have fun in the great outdoors.

There's nothing quite like fresh air, exercise and family time. You can't beat the fun you'll have in the great outdoors and creating memories that will last a lifetime. The magic of the moat, the stories of priest hunters and the freedom of the surrounding countryside means there’s something for everyone to enjoy at Baddesley.

'50 things to do before you're 11¾' will get you and your family out and about exploring all that nature has to offer.The National Trust have created a checklist of activities which will encourage kids to get mucky, discover their wild side and most of all enjoy what Mother Nature has to offer!

Here are Baddesley's top five '50 things' activities to try out:

No. 31 Make friends with a bug

There are lots of creepy crawlies to be found at Baddesley. On your next walk round the woodland why not turn over a few logs and see what you can spot. Don't forget to put it back in place though!

There are lots of toads to be found under logs here at Baddesley
Toad sitting on a hand
There are lots of toads to be found under logs here at Baddesley

No. 8 Spot a fish

Spotting fish is one of the best ways to spend time exploring water in the countryside. It's tricky though, with the fish darting around and trying to avoid you. It’s fun to watch how a fish moves, as it swims and plays with its friends. Some are speedy, while others prefer a slow and steady glide. Watch the water for little bubbles and ripples as the fish come to the surface.

No. 44 Watch a bird

Why not pick a secluded spot in the parkland and see what birds you can see. To be a successful bird watcher, you'll need to be as quiet as a mouse while you keep a look out for our feathered friends.

What will you spot from the bird screen?
A robin ready for summer
What will you spot from the bird screen?

No. 1 Get to know a tree

If trees could talk, can you imagine the tales they might tell? Perhaps your tree has stood tall through battle scenes, or helped new friends to build a den? Has it heard the ‘chee-chee’ cries of baby birds in spring, or felt the winter snow build walls on its outstretched branches? Get to know a tree throughout the seasons, and search for clues in its roots, bark and branches to uncover its story.

No. 6 Go welly wandering

There are lots of paths to be explored at Baddesley, round the nature walk and out on the wider estate. Grab those wellies and go on a wander!

Photo of Baddesley Clinton, by Rebecca Richards
Two children hand in hand splashing in a puddle at Baddesley Clinton
Photo of Baddesley Clinton, by Rebecca Richards

No. 12 Have fun with sticks

Sticks are the best. There are so many ways you can have fun with sticks that we can’t begin to list them all here. Before choosing your stick, you need to decide what you want to use it for. Do you want to create a trail of arrows for friends to follow? Or will you use your stick to make a home for wildlife? Perhaps you’d like to decorate it and use it as a wand?

Don't forget the restaurant is serving coffee, teas, hot chocolates, cakes and bakes and savoury snacks daily from 9am – 5pm.