Even when the sun isn't shining, there's still plenty to do at Berrington. Pop on your wellies and make a splash in the parkland, warm up with a cuppa in the tea-room, play games and get cosy in the second-hand bookshop and take shelter inside the mansion where you can step back in time to the 18th century.
Please be aware that following government guidance on social distancing, Berrington Hall is now closed.
Find answers to some of the coronavirus-related questions we’re hearing most in light of the current situation at our places, including concerns about visiting, membership and events.
You can still have a go at some of your ‘50 things to do before you’re 11¾' when the sun isn't shining; go welly wandering and splash about in puddles or even make your own mud creation. You can also use the mud to help solidify your den and make sure it all sticks together; we have our own den building area at Berrington, just a short walk into the parkland. Or there's always the natural play area, complete with swings and stepping logs.
You never know what games you might come up with
National Trust Images - Chris Lacey
You never know what games you might come up with
Things to do indoors
If you don’t fancy being outdoors, why not come and explore the inside of a special place? Connect with the past and learn all about the previous owners of Berrington. Hear all about how the gentry lived and, from the middle of March onwards, see if you can complete your '50 things to do indoors before you're 125¾'; find the doors to secret rooms, learn the language of fans and discover how people used to dress in times gone by. Pick up a leaflet from Visitor Reception or the mansion to start your '50 things indoors' adventure.
From Saturday 14 March to Sunday 10 May, discover Skin Deep, our new contemporary art exhibition by Oliver Jones, in partnership with Meadow Arts. His vivid, bold artworks will brighten up even the dullest day and can be found on the ground floor of the mansion.
Beyond Natural by Oliver Jones.
Oliver Jones
Beyond Natural by Oliver Jones.
After exploring the mansion, head below stairs to dress up like a Georgian and pop your head inside the Butler's Pantry, laundry and dairy to learn how the other half lived.
Don't forget to step inside the potting shed in the walled garden and hear recordings of Jack Cooper and Nick Winney, two former gardeners at Berrington, talking about the garden and how it's changed over the years.
What else you can enjoy
Escape from the inclement weather and refresh yourself in the tea-room here at Berrington. We offer a full range of hot drinks, freshly baked homemade cakes and plenty of hot food, using produce from the walled garden where possible.
A delicious bowl of Butternut squash soup with some rustic bread
National Trust Images - William Shaw
A delicious bowl of Butternut squash soup with some rustic bread
We also have a gift shop and second-hand bookshop, so you can treat yourself or someone special before you head back to the car. There is also seating and games to play in the bookshop, perfect for settling down with a good read while the rain falls outside.
Just because it's a rainy day, doesn’t mean that you can’t make the most of it. So why not get outdoors and blow away the cobwebs this spring?
