Family fun at Brockhampton this summer

There are 1,700 thousand acres of beautiful parkland to explore at Brockhampton, here are just a few suggestions of how you can spend a fun filled family day out here this summer. 

Nature play trail

The nature play trail is fun for all the family. Wind your way along the hard-standing, accessible orchard paths through the old and new orchard. Discover the largest orchard cared for by the National Trust, including 21 acres of newly planted fruit trees, which span three fields. 

Step inside the apple core, designed by Walter Jack. These five chambers house different fruit trees from around the world as they visually describe the tale of the eating apple. 

Run, jump and skip around the natural play equipment that you find along the way. Become the captain of the 'Herefordshire Bull' Trow, which takes pride of place in the new orchards. Although you might be surprised to find a boat in the middle of the orchard, Trows used to transport goods, such as fruit and cider, from Herefordshire down the River Severn and River Wye. Step aboard and imagine sailing down the river with your freshly harvested orchard apples. 

Can you spot the orchard animal sculptures as you make your way through the trees? 

Walking on the wider estate

You can download or take a photograph of the walks map of the estate if you feel like going a little further. The walks meander through woodlands, dingles, streams and orchards and consist of some great panoramic views at the top of the estate. Younger children will enjoy following the Green Woodland Route which is a two-mile walk circling through the woods with wooden sculptures and streams to dip your toes in. 

If you’re planning a woodland walk then keep your eyes peeled for deer and birds of prey such as red kites, buzzards and kestrels. Lawn Pool on the red and green walk is a great spot to stop and watch fish and closer to the manor, in the moat, you can sometimes see newts sunbathing on warm days as well as the resident mallards and moorhens.  

Tick off activities on your "50 Things" list

Throughout the summer holidays families will be able to pick up a ‘Get, set, go’ card with different activities and stickers. All the activities are nature-based meaning the estate is the perfect spot to try something new, there are three cards to collect in total. Another fun self-led thing to do is to download or print a copy of the National Trust’s ‘50 things to do before you’re 11 ¾’ guide to bring along with you. Here there are fifty activities to try as a family outdoors which can be used over and over again.

Medieval manor house

Discover Brockhampton through the ages in the manor house. The house volunteers are always willing to tell you more about the history of the house. 

There is plenty to keep your little ones entertained, including dressing up, playing with the model house and taking part in the free spotting trail. 

Picnic in nature

Brockhampton has many beautiful picnic spots. Take your packed lunch into the orchards or find a secluded spot in the woodland. There are plenty of benches with a view for you to enjoy your lunch from. 

Visit the Granary food kiosk to pick up sweet treats, pasties, sandwiches and fresh-scoop ice cream.

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