February Half Term 'Wassail Song' Trail
Wake the orchard from its winter sleep at Wightwick this half term, as a playful wassail trail leads you through the gardens to hunt for missing words, sing out for spring and help the apple trees get ready to grow again.
- Booking not needed
- Free event (admission applies)
Celebrate the coming of spring with a joyful, family Wassail Trail at Wightwick Manor and Gardens this February half term.
A Wassail (from Waes Hael, meaning “be healthy”) is a centuries-old winter tradition where people visit orchards to sing, make merry noises and offer thanks to the trees, encouraging them to grow strong and produce plenty of apples in the year ahead. It’s a lively, hopeful way to chase away winter and welcome the return of growth.
This year, our special Wassail song is ready - but a mischievous winter sprite has been up to no good, scattering the missing words all around the gardens. Follow the trail, search high and low for the clues, and piece the poem back together as you go. Once complete, you will have everything you need to help wake the orchard trees and wish them well for spring.
A fun, family-friendly outdoor activity that combines folklore, fresh air and a little seasonal magic - perfect for exploring the gardens together during February half term.
Free trail (50p donation appreciated). Normal admission costs apply, no booking required, please bring along a pencil to write on your trail sheet.
Times
Prices
Event ticket prices
This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.
Check admission pricesThe basics
- Suitability
Everyone welcome
- Meeting point
Collect your trail sheet from Visitor Reception on arrival.
- What to bring and wear
Please dress appropriately for the weather of the day - this is an outdoor trail. Please bring along a pencil to write on your trail sheet.
- Accessibility
The trail takes place along the main garden paths or near the main buildings, so even if it is a bit wet, you should be able to follow the route comfortably. Please note that the route is mainly step-free, but there is a path on an incline to get to the Kitchen Garden.
- Other
This is a free, self-led trail. Normal admission costs apply.
Upcoming events
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Wassail with Beggars' Oak Clog at Wightwick Manor and Gardens
Join us this half term for a lively celebration of an age-old tradition! Experience the joy of wassailing, an Anglo-Saxon custom to wish health and prosperity upon fruiting trees, ensuring they "grow well and bear well" for the coming year.
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