Enjoy half term with the National Trust

Half-term is fast approaching and there are lots of activities to get kids outdoors and having fun with the National Trust.

If you’ve been stuck indoors this winter, then February half-term is the perfect opportunity for the whole family to enjoy some time together exploring our beautiful landscapes as they gradually reveal signs of spring colour and wildlife after the colder winter months.

Take a walk on the wild side, enjoy fun craft sessions, or try exciting challenges and quiz packed trails indoors and out. Along the way you’ll be able to tick off a few of the ‘50 things to do before you're 11 ¾’ challenges, from mud pie-making and kite flying to den-building and tree climbing.

Take your pick from our top family places for a wild day out in West Sussex:

Half term runs from: Saturday 13 to Sunday 21 February

West Sussex

Petworth House and Park

Mini-masters pop-up art studio, 13 – 21 February

There’s loads of arty fun at Petworth House this February half-term. Inspired by their colourful Bosch to Bellotto Renaissance exhibition, the team at this famous art-loving mansion have set up a pop-up art studio, where young ‘artists’ can create their very own mini-masterpiece.

Normal admission plus suggested donation (price tbc)

Uppark House and Garden

Baby wildlife springtime trail, 13 – 21 February

Uppark’s wide expanses of lawn are perfect for running across, as little ones hunt for clues on Uppark’s half-term quiz trail. This year’s theme is baby wildlife, so start thinking about all the cute springtime wildlife you might spot here, in the gardens and woods!

Normal admission charge only

Woolbeding Countryside, Woolbeding

Pancakes al fresco, 9 February, 5 – 6pm

Tucked away in the tranquil Rother Valley lies the picturesque Woolbeding estate. Cook your own mouthwatering pancakes over an open camp fire in the woods, as the sun sets. All ingredients supplied, so just bring a healthy appetite!

£3, booking essential on 01730 816638. Meet at Bramblings Yard, between Woolbeding and Redford, just below the Stedham turning. Postcode: GU29 0QA

Slindon Estate

Wild about the woods, 17 February, 10am – 3pm

Join the Slindon Estate team for a day of tree-filled family fun. Plant trees at the National Trust’s biggest ever woodland restoration project and help us create a natural and resilient wood for wildlife and people. We’ve also lined up some den-building sessions, nature trails, the grand unveiling of our Rise of Northwood sculpture, and much more. We’ve got refreshments laid on for all tree planters too!

Free event, but book a space on 01243 814730. Toilets on site, bring appropriate outdoor clothing.