For families

Delve into our garden shed of fun activities for the kids throughout the seasons. Explore days out, things to do at home and more. There's lots to do outdoors and indoors, come rain or shine

family on a winter trail
Family exploring Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal, North Yorkshire

Explore Percy the Park Keeper's winter wander trails 

Wondering what you can do with the family this winter? From 4 December 2021, join Percy the Park Keeper and his animal friends in giving nature a helping hand at many places in our care. Step into Percy's wellies as his helper and take part in our winter activity trails. You can continue the fun at home with some new downloadable Percy colouring sheets.

Find your nearest trail

Explore

Visitors browsing a stall in the Market at Gibside, Tyne & Wear

Christmas markets 

Christmas markets and fairs are a great place to get the whole family in the festive mood. Discover a range of locally handmade gifts, crafts and even jewellery. Visit a Christmas market near you and add some winter cheer to your next day out.

A family walking along the Temple of Concord and Victory in winter.

Top winter gardens 

Get a breath of fresh air at a winter garden near you and let the kids stretch their legs. Walk amongst historic buildings, enjoy the winter flowers coming into bloom or see what wildlife you can spot on your next day out.

Young boy recieving a present from Father Christmas

Visit Father Christmas 

Plan a memorable and festive day out with a visit to see Father Christmas in his grotto. At some places, you can even tuck into breakfast with the big man himself and listen to him read a story by the fire.

Family walking through the grounds at Blickling Hall, Norfolk

More things to do this Christmas 

Looking to make the festive period extra special? There are lots of things to see and do with the whole family at the places in our care this winter. Start planning your visit.

Bake it
National Trust Pork and Turkey Pie
Main courses

Pork and turkey pies 

Get into the festive spirit with these filling festive pies. Packed with delicious, rich flavours of pork, sage and cranberry, they're perfect to get your little elves involved in the kitchen. These easy-to-make pies will leave your tastebuds tingling for more.

Tuck in
Make it
Visitors making decorations at Attingham Park, Shropshire.

Join in with Christmas crafts 

Keep little fingers busy making festive decorations that'll add natural textures, bright colours and seasonal scents to your home. With simple step-by-step instructions, you can learn how to make paper snowflakes, scented orange slice tree decorations and more.

Try some Christmas crafts
Share the joy
Christmas decorations hanging off a Christmas tree

Christmas gift guide 

No matter who you’re buying for, our Christmas gift guide has plenty of family-friendly present ideas. Discover a selection of fun toys and games, tasty recipe books and even some festive luxuries for you.

Three Percy the Park Keeper books

Shop Percy the Park Keeper books 

Explore nature with Percy the Park Keeper and his animal friends. Discover activity books which include nature-spotter guides, creative projects and much more, or let your imagination run wild with a classic Percy the Park Keeper story.

Things to do

If you're in need of some more inspiration for days out and activities to do on your own, with family or friends, look no further. You won't be short of things to do this winter.

Ideas for things to do