Tyne and Wear

Gateshead

Rowlands Gill

Join Shunyata Improvisation Group at Gibside for a musical workshop inspired by blossom.

The musical workshop will explore themes of impermanence, reflecting upon the joy of blooming and its passing and the connections of this natural cycle to musical improvisation.

Participants are welcome to bring any acoustic instruments or to use percussion and selected instruments provided.

Shunyata will create a friendly space in a gazebo in the Walled Garden where people can feel comfortable to try out new approaches while making music together. Everyone is welcome to participate including those with no musical experience.

Participants will be invited to play in several improvisations and be attentive to their interventions, the contributions of others and the ambient sounds of the garden.

Schedule:

10.30am Introductions 11.15am Listening exercises

12noon Creating improvisations together

12.20pm Final discussion

12.30pm Finish

Call 0344 249 1895

Only suitable for adults.

The workshop will take place in a gazebo in the Walled Garden at Gibside.

Please bear in mind that this workshop takes place outside but undercover. We recommend weather appropriate clothing and shoes.

The Walled Garden is accessible by wheelchair, but the gazebo will be over grass. Gibside shuttle bus may be available on the day, please ask at Visitor Reception. Chairs will be provided.

Please arrive at Visitor Reception at least 15 minutes before the workshop. On arrival you will be asked to present your National Trust membership card or pay for entry if you are not a member. Admission is not included in the price of the ticket.

Central Box Office

Join us this Festival of Blossom and May half term for a family scavenger hunt all about butterflies and moths.

Join us on a guided tour of the 18th century landscape garden and visualise the grandeur that once was the pride of George Bowes.

Get a taste for the history of Gibside with a Guided Walk volunteer.

Dive into the history of Gibside and take a walk with a Guided Walk volunteer around the 18th century landscape garden.

Blossom inspired musical workshop with Shunyata Improvisation Group

An experience not to be missed on your visit to Wimpole Estate, the Home Farm pig feeding takes place twice daily.

Watch our farm team distribute food amongst the pens and see the pigs use their snouts to root through the fresh straw and soil to find their meals. This method discourages food hogging and ensures every pig gets their fair share as well as encouraging their natural eating behaviours.

This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.

Home Farm

Wimpole Estate Office

Come and explore the wonders of nature in the gardens as Wimpole's popular pre-school group heads into the great outdoors for Spring.

Join us for a walk around Wimpole Estate every Sunday morning.

Discover Wimpole's historic gardens.

Wimpole's popular pre-school group for 2-5 year olds is back for a second term.

Pig feeding at Home Farm

An expert volunteer guide will lead you around the 270 acres of parkland to learn more about the site's history, archaeology, management and significance. At 10.30am and 1.30pm on selected days.

Walks start at visitor reception and finish down by the house. They are free of charge, but normal admission costs apply. Walks are subject to volunteer availability - please check on arrival.

This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.

Suitable for all ages.

Visitor Reception in the car park.

The parkland is steep and uneven in places so please wear sturdy footwear and clothing suitable for the outdoors.

The parkland is steep and uneven in places.

Dyrham team

The popular session for pre-schoolers is back in March 2024 with nature activities each Tuesday morning in term time until mid October.

Want to find out more about Dyrham's garden? Why not join one of our expert volunteer guides on a tour?

Crawl like a caterpillar, wriggle like a worm, hop like a bunny and leap like a frog this May half term at Dyrham Park.

Alice, a young, curious girl, follows a white rabbit down a rabbit hole and ends up in Wonderland. There, she begins on an adventure she will never forget.

Guided parkland walks

Immerse yourself in the history and beauty of Flatford

Join us for a fascinating guided tour and explore the picturesque hamlet of Flatford as you learn about the life and works of John Constable, one of the most celebrated artists in British history. As you walk, see the iconic views that inspired Constable's masterpieces such as the Hay Wain and Flatford Mill.

Please note, these tours are operated by volunteers and are subject to last minute cancellation. If you are looking to join us specifically for this tour, we recommend contacting us ahead of time to confirm it will be running.

This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.

Speak to our team in the welcome hut when you arrive if you're interested in joining the daily tour.

This tour is more suitable for adults.

Visitor welcome hut in the car park.

This tour takes place outdoors, please dress appropriately for the weather.

Not all the usual route is accessible to wheelchair users, but speak to the guide on the day who may be able to amend the route for you.

Well behaved dogs on leads welcome on the tour.

Flatford, Bridge Cottage

'Beneath the Clouds' is a group exhibition at The Granary at Flatford. The exhibition showcases artists who use location and nature as an impetus to create work that encapsulates personal memories and artistic vision. Exhibiting artists are...

Join us at Flatford for our volunteer recruitment Morning, chat to the team and find out more about volunteering with us.

The ancient hall of Valley Farm will be open to view, allowing visitors to look up at the blackened rafters and see the huge inglenook fireplace and medieval staircase.

Join the fun and go wild at the Flatford Nature Day. There will be craft activities to try, trails to follow and nature clues to hunt.

Flatford guided tour

This year we have 2 separate tours to visit areas in the house that are not normally open to visitors. However, please note - these tours are SUBJECT TO VOLUNTEER AVAILABILITY.

It is a wonderful chance for visitors to look behind the scenes into two areas of the first floor of the house: Mrs Greville’s Apartment, Every day – 11.30 and 15.00, and on Weekdays only 13.00 and 15.00 - there are 10 spaces on each tour. Royal Guests’ Suites – Weekdays only 12.30 and 14.30 - there are 8 spaces on each tour. These short tours will last about 20 mins each, taking visitors through either Mrs Greville’s Bedroom, peeking into her Ritz bathroom and finishing in the boudoir, with its magnificent views across the Valley and down Bagden Drive. Or into the King’s Suite and the other guest suite corridors learning about Mrs Greville’s royal connections and a glimpse into the stores. These tours will be great for visitors wanting to see behind the scenes and learn a little more about Mrs Greville and her life.

This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.

Book your tour on the day at the entrance to the house on a 'first come, first served' basis, and then meet there before the start of the tour. Tickets are not pre-bookable.

Please be advised that you do need to be able to manage walking up and down stairs, and they are standing tours, with no seats provided.

Although these tours are free, we would appreciate any donation to help maintain these spaces. Suggested £2 donation at the end of the tour.

Polesden Lacey

Join us for a special collaboration with best-selling author and renowned artist Luke Adam Hawker.

Every Monday afternoon, take a moment to switch off and take in the surroundings in our dedicated Silent Space at Polesden Lacey.

Come with friends or make some new ones on this invigorating social stroll around the Polesden Lacey countryside.

Learn to take great photos with the help of our award-winning photographer. One-day workshops taking place 15 Dec 2023, 26 Jan, 16 Feb, 15 March, 19 Apr, 24 May and 14 June 2024.

Mrs Greville’s Apartment and Royal Suite Tours

Discover Wimpole's historic gardens.

Learn about the great gardeners of the past who have helped shape Wimpole's pleasure grounds, discover this season's most notable new arrivals and hear about our plans for future growth in the gardens. As part of this tour you'll be guided around our four-and-a-half-acre walled garden before being taken behind the scenes to see the historic working area. No booking required, just pick up a ticket at the visitor welcome centre.

This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.

These walks are more suitable for adults.

Meet at the turning circle, outside The Stables.

Walkers should wear stout footwear and suitable clothing (waterproofs are always recommended!)

Accessible routes available.

Wimpole Estate Office

An experience not to be missed on your visit to Wimpole Estate, the Home Farm pig feeding takes place twice daily.

Wimpole's popular pre-school group for 2-5 year olds is back for a second term.

Enjoy the estate from a different perspective and discover the best bits of the parkland and countryside by joining our volunteer guides on a Wednesday Walk.

Come and explore the wonders of nature in the gardens as Wimpole's popular pre-school group heads into the great outdoors for Spring.

Guided Garden Walks

During the season of blossom we will be highlighting some of the fine Japanese objects collected by Charles Wade.

From Samurai armour to temple bells there is a great number of Japanese items in Charles Wade's collection. During the blossom season learn more about these special objects.

This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.

The items are spread around the manor which has numerous flights of stairs. You are able to look at the objects as part of our virtual tour which you can request at the manor or cafe.

Snowshill Manor

Take the best blossom photo and win a private tour of Charles Wade's cottage including parts not usually open to the public.

Enjoying a picnic under the blossom is part of the Japanese tradition of Hanami. Take some time to sit, enjoy some food and admire the beauty of the blossoms.

Join a gentle and relaxing Tai Chi session in the Snowshill Manor Orchard surrounded by blossom trees, overlooking the valley.

Snowshill has something for the whole family to enjoy in May half term.

Spotlight on Japanese objects

Explore Ickworth as a masterpiece of design in our new celebration for 2024. From the iconic Rotunda with its innovative Italianate gardens to the estate's structured parkland, Ickworth is a dream of Rome within the heart of Suffolk.

Trace the footsteps of Ickworth's residents over the years in our house exhibition and learn just how the Rotunda came to be. Beginning with Ickworth's visionary curator, the 'Earl-Bishop', step through time to learn the stories of those who helped bring his ideas to life - and those who changed it. From quality craftsmanship to pioneering design, we invite visitors to discover why Ickworth is designed the way it is. Visit daily from 29 March from 11am. Last entry to the House 3pm.

This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.

Children welcome, please ensure they are under close supervision at all times.

Head to the Rotunda on arrival and through the front doors.

Suitable footwear, ideally not muddy please. We regret that prams and pushchairs are not permitted inside the Rotunda.

There is a lift for those that are unable to climb the stairs to the first floor. Please speak to a team member for more information.

Ickworth Estate

Join the team caring for Ickworth's treasures to discover more about the Hervey family and their collection.

Take a step behind closed doors in the Rotunda to see Ickworth through the eyes of our Collections Team.

Learn about the architectural styles and interior fashions that influenced the creation of Ickworth’s iconic Rotunda.

Hear the stories of the servants who lived and worked at Ickworth as you discover the hustle and bustle that went on below stairs.

Ickworth - A Design Masterpiece

Discover the story of Vita Sackville-West’s life at Knole.

Discover the story of Vita Sackville-West’s life at Knole through to her wedding and bittersweet departure in 1913. This story will be brought to life around you with a new multimedia tour guiding you through key moments in Vita’s life.

Explore the Great Hall, where you'll see wedding presents that were gifted to Vita and Harold alongside a marriage album assembled by Vita. A portrait of Vita by Philip de László, usually found in the Long Library at Sissinghurst, will also be on display.

Around the showrooms you’ll find delicately detailed paper sculpture recreations of the dress worn by Vita at her wedding, as well as outfits worn by other members of the wedding party. The mannequins are designed and created by artist Denise Watson, of Delicarta, 'bringing paper to life'.

This is a rare chance to see the original manuscript of ‘Orlando’, which is on show in the Ballroom. Seldom displayed due to its fragile nature, the manuscript has Virginia Woolf’s handwritten notes on.

In the Cartoon Gallery a copy of Chatterton, the first work that Vita Sackville-West published, is displayed.

Continue your journey to the Orangery to see the contemporary art installation by artist Lorna Johnson. The piece consists of 150 hand sewn scented ruffles that symbolise strong female figures who ruffled feathers to move society forward, just like Vita.

This event is included with normal admission to Knole (showrooms, outdoor and tower ticket required) - there is no separate ticket.

This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.

Call 0344 249 1895 Please pre-book your visit to Knole.

Please go to the Visitor Centre to purchase admission tickets or to have pre-booked tickets redeemed.

The majority of the showrooms are upstairs. There is step-free access to the Great Hall. The Orangery is accessible via the lift in the Bookshop. Please see Access Statement for more details.

This event is included with normal admission to Knole (showrooms, outdoor and tower ticket required) - there is no separate ticket. Normal admission charges to Knole apply. Admission tickets to Knole become available approximately 4 weeks in advance. To use the National Trust car park, pre-book admission per person (not per vehicle) to guarantee entry. National Trust members visit and park free; non-members will need to purchase an admission ticket to Knole.

Knole

Lord Sackville’s private garden at Knole is a beautiful space, featuring sprawling lawns, a walled garden, an untamed wilderness area and a medieval orchard.

Hidden above the showrooms lie Knole's attics. Join a behind the scenes tour to explore these spaces and see a different side to Knole.

Sorry, this event is now fully booked.

Make new friends and chat while your little ones play at Knole Fawns parent and toddler group.

Vita: Discover a story of love and life at Knole

Celebrate the return of a fascinating portrait to Ham House following eight years away on loan and in conservation. Discover more about the techniques which led to an unexpected and intriguing discovery.

Visit us 4 March – 21 July to see the return of a fascinating portrait to Ham House. The sitter was sixteenth-century nobleman John Maitland, Lord Chancellor of Scotland under James VI. He was grandfather to John, Duke of Lauderdale, who married Elizabeth Murray of Ham House. When his portrait was painted by Adrian Vanson in 1589, he was one of the most influential men in Scotland.

The display will reveal how conservators first came across a significant, potentially royal, portrait hidden underneath the figure of Maitland, and explore how the painting was subsequently conserved at the Royal Oak Foundation Conservation Studio at Knole NT.

Included with admission; no booking required. Please note, this display is on the first floor, which is accessed via stairs. The house opens daily 12-4 (last entry 3.30).

This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.

Please note, this display is on the first floor of the house, which is accessed via stairs.

Ham House and Garden

Explore the beautiful craftsmanship and exquisite interiors of Ham House's collection of decorative cabinets in the Cabinets Unlocked event, 11-24 May 2024.

In their 20th year, The Lord Chamberlain's Men return to Ham House and Garden with Hamlet this June!

Learn more about how a gift in your will could help us carry out crucial conservation work at Ham House and Garden.

Beneath the surface: A hidden portrait from Stuart Scotland

A multi-media exhibition to celebrate Washington’s past, both real and mythical, marking 60 years as a New Town.

Washington Heritage Partnership has worked with Arts Centre Washington and Washington Old Hall to deliver this exciting new arts project, built around Washington’s multi-layered history.

Taking inspiration from the book of the same name by Fred Hill, the local historian and schoolmaster who played a key role in saving Washington Old Hall, local artists from the Sunderland Indie collective have produced a multimedia exhibition of contemporary art.

From July, the exhibition will move on to Arts Centre Washington.

This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.

Children welcome, must be accompanied by an adult.

Find the exhibition in the old café.

Access to the old café is via steps. An accessible route is available on request - please speak to a member of staff.

Washington Old Hall

Join us for a free guided walk to Penshaw Monument, to appreciate the changes each season brings.

Bringing history to life at Washington Old Hall

Local musicians make a visit to Washington Old Hall extra special.

Innovative and rip-roaring outdoor theatre for all ages.

Washington: Fact, Fiction and Folklore

In the Manor, discover how Disraeli masterfully used myths to craft his public persona and navigate the complex worlds of belonging, identity and relationships.

Explore the depictions of classical myths at Hughenden to understand their meaning to Disraeli. Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of his storytelling. As you journey around the Manor ponder the timeless significance of myths in shaping human stories and the enduring legacy of Hughenden Manor as a testament to the power of imagination and invention. Please note the top floor of the exhibition is subject to volunteer availability.

This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.

The exhibition is on the top floor so unfortunately unsuitable for wheelchair users.

Hughenden

Join us as we explore the power of myths in shaping identities and understanding the world around us. Delve into the rich tapestry of myths, legends, and folklore.

Are you looking to get outdoors, meet new people and improve your health and wellbeing? Join this free friendly 0.7 mile led walk with a short guided tour of the gardens and an overview of the park at Hughenden

Are you looking to get outdoors, meet new people and improve your health and wellbeing? Join this free, friendly 2.5 mile led walk through the woodlands around the Hughenden Estate, with views down to Hughenden Valley & High Wycombe.

Join us in celebrating Hughenden's literary heritage with our outdoor book fair. Discover literary treasures and support Hughenden with every book you take home.

Manor Exhibition: 'Who are you and What are you?'

Killerton's 2024 fashion exhibition will explore children's clothes of the 19th and 20th century.

'Playing by the rules: Childhood, dress and imagination' will delve into the world of children's clothing within the Killerton collection, many of them part of the Margaret Bodley collection which was acquired by the National Trust in the early 1980s.

Five local Brownie and Guide units have worked with us to create future fashion designs, along with becoming young curators for one of the displays.

Opening 10 February 2024, the exhibition will open with the house, daily 11am to 4pm (last entry 3.30pm).

For more details visit: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/devon/killerton/killertons-fashion-collection

This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.

Children are welcome.

Head to Visitor Reception to learn more about the exhibition in the house.

The exhibition is indoors.

The fashion exhibition is on the first floor which is only accessible via the main staircase (no lift). A book of printed images is available to show visitors who are unable to access the first floor.

The free is exhibition is included with entry. Entry is free for members. Entry prices for non members are displayed on our website.

Killerton

Be inspired by the blossom that's filling Killerton with colour.

Would you enjoy a quieter visit to Killerton? We're able to offer relaxed sessions; designed to be of benefit to visitors who prefer a quieter and calmer experience, such as those with autism, SEN or dementia.

Join Killerton’s Ecologist, Fiona Hailstone, as she guides you to discover some of the 1500 ancient trees on the Killerton estate.

The University of Exeter archaeology department are excavating a site close to Columbjohn Chapel on the Killerton estate. Visit the dig site on weekdays to discover what they have found.

Playing by the rules: fashion exhibition in the house

Discover what lies beneath on a tour of the cellar at Wallington.

Join a guided cellar walk and talk, where you'll find out more about the history of Wallington and explore the passageways and rooms that make up the oldest part of the house.

This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.

Call into the House to book on the day Please visit the house from 11.30am to sign up for the tour time of your choice on the day.

Over 16's only

Entrance hall of the house

Step access to cellars only

Please visit the house from 11.30am to sign up for the tour time of your choice on the day. Spaces are limited and will be available on a first come first served basis. Maximum 12 people per tour.

Estate Office

New for 2024 Following the arrival of beavers at Wallington in the summer of 2023, the first in Northumberland for over 400 years, we're delighted to be working with Wild Intrigue to bring you beaver enclosure safaris this year.

Explore the incredible world of insects on a trail in the Walled Garden this May half term.

Explore the incredible world of insects in the House at Wallington.

The Wallington duck race is back!

Wallington house cellar tours

Join us in a celebration of spring flowers, birds and blossom in the House.

This year, between 16 March and 24 May, you are invited to explore spring in the House.

Immerse yourself in nature as you admire the John Hungerford Pollen ceiling of painted flowers and birds in the Brown Drawing Room. Look out for spring themes within items from the collection, including a rare opportunity to see a beautiful embroidered floral silk quilt dating from around 1730-1750 on display in the Upper Ante Room.

There's also a new family trail featuring swallows – can you find them all? Head into the kitchen to test your origami skills and make some paper blossom.

The House is open from 11am to 4pm from 1 April - 24 May, with last entry 30 minutes before closing.

Standard admission prices apply, no booking required. Free entry for National Trust members.

This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.

Suitable for all ages

Please be aware that there is currently no lift access to the first floor of the house.

The exhibition takes place inside the house. Assistance dogs only.

Blickling Estate

Join us as we commemorate the anniversary of the death of Anne Boleyn.

Ruby the rabbit loves radishes and we love them too! Join us for a garden adventure inspired by the book 'Ruby Plants a Radish', written by Kate Petty and illustrated by Axel Scheffler.

Trust10 monthly trail runs are a great way to blow away the cobwebs, get some exercise and take in spectacular scenery throughout the seasons.

Ever wondered what plants sound like? Join a special musical experience as Martin Noble-James from Revolutionary Biscuits presents Bio-sonification Live from the walled garden.

Spring's blossoming at Blickling Estate

Discover a new exhibition by award winning Welsh artist Daniel Trivedy, responding to Powis Castle’s colonial connection to India.

Explore a new exhibition hosted within the ballroom from the 24 February - 31 May 2024 in collaboration with Artes Mundi.

Created by Daniel Trivedy, the work is an engaging and playful form of disruption. The exhibition aligns with the artist’s re-imagining of Powis Castle as a potential site of learning and social cohesion.

A series of photographic images and a filmed performance shot inside the castle and grounds last year, along with an interview recorded with the artist will be shown in the ballroom, adjacent to the Clive Museum.

The work has come about through a partnership between Artes Mundi, the international flagship visual arts organisation in Wales, National Trust Cymru and the artist.

The display is open from 11am - 4pm with last entry is at 3.30pm.

There is no additional charge to see the exhibition, but normal admission prices apply.

There’s no need to pre-book.

If you’re planning to visit as a large group, please email powiscastle@nationaltrust.org.uk to arrange it in advance.

This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.

Powis Castle and Garden

Discover new and exciting volunteering opportunities within a medieval castle.

Back by popular demand, join one of our volunteer photographers in the garden to learn something new, meet new people and enjoy being in the great outdoors.

Take part in a guided mindful walk around the garden before it opens to the public, followed by a delicious cream tea from the Courtyard cafe.

Enjoy informal performances within the garden from the Welshpool Community choir and Singing Circle.

'A Tiger in the Castle' Exhibition at Powis Castle and Garden

Discover Sizergh’s garden and plant collection with a garden tour.

This is a chance to join one of our knowledgeable gardeners on a tour through the garden at Sizergh. Led by our knowledgeable volunteers, these tours are suitable for all – whether you’re a keen gardener, a regular visitor, a first-timer, or you’d just like to better orientate yourself. They will cover the history and development of Sizergh’s garden through the centuries, current and future projects and seasonal highlights.

This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.

Please meet at Visitor Reception.

We recommend sturdy footwear and, if needed, waterproof clothing.

Trampers are available to hire. Grass paths have been reinforced with a geotextile to aid access. There are two flights of steps down to the terrace overlooking the Mirror Pond.

Sizergh Reception

Can you discover eight of the birds that call Sizergh home? Take part in the Spring Bird Challenge this April.

Meet some of the key characters in Sizergh’s history, delving into 800 years of history.

See how vital conservation work happens this Spring – this time, on Sizergh’s collection of glass and ceramics.

Wrap up warm and join our expert Ranger Rob for a chance to spot a hawfinch at first light.

Garden Tours

Join one of our volunteer tour guides to see the abbey as the Georgians once did; incorporated into the dramatic designed landscape.

Fountains Abbey became the greatest folly of all when John Aislabie created his water garden at Studley Royal. See the abbey as the Georgians did on this guided tour; incorporated into the dramatic designed landscape and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The abbey and garden tour lasts 1 hour 30 minutes and will be run twice a day, seven days a week.

Unfortunately, sometimes our volunteer guides aren't available and we have to cancel tours. Please ask the admission staff on your arrival for the tour schedule on that day.

This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.

Meet at the Porter's Lodge; a 15 minute walk from the Visitor Centre, down a steep 20% gradient, 5 minutes from the level access West Gate entrance and 30 minutes from the Studley Royal entrance.

We are an outdoor site so please dress appropriately for the weather and wear sturdy shoes as the ground is uneven in places.

Access to the abbey is across a level grassy green. When the grass is particularly wet this can be impassable for wheelchairs, mobility scooters and prams. We have a portable hearing loop available to hire, free of charge, for guided tours. Please call 01765 608888 to book. Please collect from your tour guide at Porter's Lodge. You can use this with a hearing aid set to 'T' or with headphones.

This tour will last approx. 1 hour 30 minutes. Unfortunately, sometimes our guides aren't available and we have to cancel tours. Please ask the admission staff on your arrival for the tour schedule that day.

Fountains Abbey

Join one of our volunteer tour guides to discover more about the largest monastic ruins in the country.

Join one of our volunteer tour guides to discover more about the people who lived and worked on the abbey estate.

Walk with the wildlife volunteers to find out more about the Red, Sika and Fallow Deer.

Join us on a guided walk to discover more about the rocks and roots that lie beneath the estate.

Garden and abbey tour

A celebration of tapestry, embroidery and appliqué. Discover how Bess of Hardwick’s exquisite textile collection tells her story.

Elizabethan England was a material world. Power, identity and virtue were all expressed though what you owned and what you built.

Elizabeth Shrewsbury designed Hardwick Hall to shout about who she was and how far she had come. From the solid stone ES initials on the roof to the magnificent tapestries and textiles she hung inside, everything was a material statement about Bess.

The stories on the wall:

Tapestries and textiles were more than just interior decoration, they were a form of art used to make a statement. Their size, expensive materials and the stories they told made them the perfect medium to publicly project the power and status of the owner.

Discover the symbolism and hidden meaning in the images and stories which don the 400- year-old walls. See if you can spot Bess’ devotion to Penelope throughout the hall, a beacon of virtue dedicated to her husband.

Conservation:

It took 24 years for the 13 Gideon tapestries to go through cleaning and conservation and a whopping £1.7 million to restore them back to their full glory.

Find out more about the painstaking work of the specialist cleaning team in Belgium and the people behind the hand stitched repairs at the National Trust’s Conservation Studio.

Taking in the tapestries:

Let the textiles do the talking in the Long Gallery as you uncover new stories in the Gideon tapestries through ‘slow looking’. Accompanied by a magnificent soundscape, this really will be a treat for the senses!

This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.

Call 01246 850430

Children welcome

This display will in the hall only, across the Museum Rooms, the High Great Chamber and the Long Gallery.

The displays in the Museum Rooms of the Hall are on the ground floor and will be fully accessible. Please note that to view the upper floors of the hall, there is no lift available and is only accessible by stairs.

Please note that last entry to the hall is at 2.45pm.

General

Reimagine the 'Lost Embroidery' at Hardwick Hall: Join Layla Khoo and stitch the fabric of modern virtue through creative participation.

Fully accessible guided group walk in the grounds of Hardwick Hall's most iconic buildings.

Find out more about the work of the specialist craft teams who help us care for the National Trust collections and historic properties.

Intermediate 3.5 mile group walk around the Hardwick Estate. Make friends and get outdoors!

Material Power: Let the textiles do the talking

An exhibition celebrating local herbal recipes, remedies and food stories handed down through generations.

Come and learn more about local cures for ailments and weird and wonderful concoctions and recipes that families swore by.

This nostalgic exhibition presents a range of oral histories which unite a community through memories of Pobs, nettles and cod liver oil (to name just a few) and a selection of the best recipes we have collected from speaking with community groups.

Take some time listen and absorb the stories and add your own memories to the pot. What foods made you feel well as a child? What foods made you feel loved and safe?

As part of the exhibition we have invited local artist, Shazia Ashraf, to create artworks that celebrate the herbal history of Wakefield.

This project was supported by Wakefield Council with a Culture Grant as part of Our Year – Wakefield District.

This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.

All welcome

This exhibition will be in the Orangery which is accessible through the rose garden.

The Orangery is wheelchair accessible

Property Office

Join our resident bird experts on a mindful walk through the woods at Nostell to experience the incredible dawn chorus.

Join us as we celebrate Wordfest with a huge Bookstravaganza event in the Riding School this May half term.

Follow the trail as it winds through the gardens and woodland adventure play area to find out about the incredible work that our garden pollinators do.

Join us for a wonderful summer evening of family theatre with Duke’s Theatre Company's adaptation of Shakespeare's ‘As You Like It.’

Herbal Histories of Wakefield exhibition

Explore the home of the child workers of Quarry Bank on a unique tour

Child workers lived in the Apprentice House, often sent from workhouses far away. They laboured for long hours in the Mill, before returning to chores including gardening and sewing.

Discover how the children lived, where they slept, what they ate, what care they received, and hear the stories of Margaret Magin and Thomas Priestly.

When you arrive at Visitor Reception you can book onto a tour of the Apprentice House.

Tour times vary on week days and on weekends and during school holidays. Please ask for more details at Visitor Reception.

Tours are very popular so book your tickets early on the day of your arrival to avoid disappointment.

Tickets for tours cannot be pre-booked. Admission charges apply. Free entry for National Trust members.

This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.

suitable for children aged 9+

Please enquire about going on a tour of the Apprentice House at Visitor Reception. When it's time for your tour please go to the meeting point next the Apprentice House.

There's no lift in the Apprentice House and to reach the first floor you'll need to climb a short, steep narrow set of stairs into the dormitory. A video tour of the Apprentice House is available.

Quarry Bank

Discover the beauty of blossom at Quarry Bank and excite your senses by following our blossom trail

This is your chance to see what life was like for the crowded families in the village

Visit the comfortable home of the Greg family: funded by the mill and right next to it, but far away from the world of its workers

Enjoy a behind the scenes look at how the hydro turns the power of the River Bollin into electricity

Apprentice House Tours

An experience not to be missed on your visit to Wimpole Estate, the Home Farm pig feeding takes place twice daily.

Watch our farm team distribute food amongst the pens and see the pigs use their snouts to root through the fresh straw and soil to find their meals. This method discourages food hogging and ensures every pig gets their fair share as well as encouraging their natural eating behaviours.

This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.

Home Farm

Wimpole Estate Office

Have you herd the news? Lambing is baaaa-ck at Wimpole Estate this Spring...

Wimpole's popular pre-school group for 2-5 year olds is back for a second term.

Discover Wimpole's historic gardens.

Enjoy the estate from a different perspective and discover the best bits of the parkland and countryside by joining our volunteer guides on a Wednesday Walk.

Discover Wimpole's historic gardens.

Learn about the great gardeners of the past who have helped shape Wimpole's pleasure grounds, discover this season's most notable new arrivals and hear about our plans for future growth in the gardens. As part of this tour you'll be guided around our four-and-a-half-acre walled garden before being taken behind the scenes to see the historic working area. No booking required, just pick up a ticket at the visitor welcome centre.

This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.

These walks are more suitable for adults.

Meet at the turning circle, outside The Stables.

Walkers should wear stout footwear and suitable clothing (waterproofs are always recommended!)

Accessible routes available.

Wimpole Estate Office

Have you herd the news? Lambing is baaaa-ck at Wimpole Estate this Spring...

Wimpole's popular pre-school group for 2-5 year olds is back for a second term.

An experience not to be missed on your visit to Wimpole Estate, the Home Farm pig feeding takes place twice daily.

Enjoy the estate from a different perspective and discover the best bits of the parkland and countryside by joining our volunteer guides on a Wednesday Walk.

Visit our new art gallery which celebrates the power, beauty and influence of nature featuring work by esteemed botanical artists, such as John Nash and Mary Grierson.

Originally curated by Lady Rachel Labouchere, Dudmaston’s last owner, in the late 1970s, the gallery space has undergone a transformation. As part of a complete rehang, the gallery now boasts a new colour scheme and lighting system which highlights the new positions of the artwork on display.

Examples of Lady Labouchere’s own artwork, including her watercolours which depict some familiar scenes at Dudmaston, are on display as part of the exhibition. She was trained, as an amateur artist, by John Nash at Flatford Mill in Suffolk. Chairs and handbags which she embroidered with botanical designs, are on display in the gallery, alongside photographs of her doing the work.

This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.

Arrive at Visitor Reception and enjoy visiting the galleries at the Hall.

Many of the galleries are up stairs. Picture books of the artwork are available.

Dudmaston

Head off on an adventure around Dudmaston with Pixie the cat this half term or help yourself to the play equipment. Whatever you do, have fun.

Made in Shropshire Artisan Fairs are the best place in the region to meet and buy from local, independent makers and producers.

Visit Dudmaston after hours and see the garden and galleries in a different light. Top off a relaxing summer's evening by spoiling yourself with a treat from the Orchard Tea Room.

Watch a fast-paced, charmingly chaotic interpretation of the classic Shakespeare comedy by the intrepid Handlebards who carry their costumes, props and entire set on their bikes!

Inspired by Nature Exhibition

During the season of blossom we will be highlighting some of the fine Japanese objects collected by Charles Wade.

From Samurai armour to temple bells there is a great number of Japanese items in Charles Wade's collection. During the blossom season learn more about these special objects.

This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.

The items are spread around the manor which has numerous flights of stairs. You are able to look at the objects as part of our virtual tour which you can request at the manor or cafe.

Snowshill Manor

Take the best blossom photo and win a private tour of Charles Wade's cottage including parts not usually open to the public.

Enjoying a picnic under the blossom is part of the Japanese tradition of Hanami. Take some time to sit, enjoy some food and admire the beauty of the blossoms.

Enjoy a quiet visit to Snowshill Manor and Garden.

Come along and watch a fabulous show of music and dancing by Fiddlesticks who dance in the North West Morris style. Clap along and join in at the end.

National Trust

We look after the places you love, from houses, buildings and gardens to coast and countryside. Join us and help protect them.

Blossom inspired musical workshop with Shunyata Improvisation Group

National Trust

Description

Location

No reviews

Download the app to view more activities