The Very Hungry Caterpillar™ Trail
Become the world’s most famous caterpillar, from Eric Carle’s best-selling book The Very Hungry Caterpillar™ Wiggle along the trail in Osterley's garden, spot the fruits and snacks hidden around the garden before emerging as a beautiful butterfly.
- Booking not needed
- Free event (admission applies)
This spring, join us for an enchanting journey inspired by Eric Carle’s beloved and iconic children’s book, The Very Hungry Caterpillar™. The National Trust’s Osterley Park and House in London is delighted to host a captivating trail where families can experience one of nature’s greatest transformations.
This charming trail brings to life the best-selling story of the tiny caterpillar who hatches from an egg and is very hungry, so he eats through a variety of fruits and snacks each day. The caterpillar then forms a chrysalis around himself and later, emerges as a beautiful butterfly.
Brought to life with beautifully illustrated trail markers, giant food cut-outs, activities and games, children learn about the days of the week, counting, and the life cycle of a butterfly, within the picturesque setting of Osterley’s early spring gardens.
Pick up a free The Very Hungry Caterpillar™ trail sheet and discover accompanying QR codes, games and activities to learn fun and fascinating facts inspired by this classic children’s tale. Celebrate completing the trail with a snap in front of our stunning photo opportunity – giant, colourful butterfly wings!
This trail is recommended for children aged 3-6 years.
Trail free with normal admission.
Times
Prices
Event ticket prices
This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.
Check admission pricesThe basics
- Suitability
The trail is recommended for children aged 3-6 years
- Meeting point
The trail is in the gardens at Osterley, with entry by the garden kiosk to the side of the mansion House.
- What to bring and wear
Weather appropriate clothing as the trail is completely outdoors.
- Accessibility
A number of outdoor elements may not be suitable for wheelchairs due to terrain and elements like stepping stones. For more information on the trail please contact the property.
- Other
Normal admission to the House and Gardens applies.
Upcoming events
Osterley Park's Creative Community Art Project
Osterley Park’s Creative Community Art Project has been designed to deepen connections with its surrounding communities and improve access to Osterley’s green spaces and heritage.
Osterley's Marigold Festival
The Marigold Festival will run from Diwali, the five day festival of light, and continue through to Christmas. Osterley will be transformed with marigolds, a celebratory flower in South Asia and across the world that will adorn the property.
Tabla Workshops and Imaginative History Talks
Try tabla drumming with Anjan Saha and Dr Frances Shepherd from PRSSV Institute of Performing Arts and Heritage. Come along to The Marigold Festival and experience the tabla, the most important percussion instrument of North India today.
Sari Wreath Workshops
As part of our Marigold Festival this year, join Priya Velusami of Pri Pri (pripri.co.uk) for a fun and creative workshop making your own upcycled fabric wreath!