Families looking for memorable days out this May half term will find plenty to enjoy at National Trust places throughout Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire. Across the region, sites are gearing up for a lively week of family-friendly entertainment. Young adventurers can get stuck into hands-on outdoor experiences, enjoy seasonal trails, try creative activities, and explore the countryside in new and exciting ways.
Gunby Estate, Hall and Gardens, Lincolnshire, PE23 5SS
On 25 May, there will be special admission prices as part of our partnership with the Lincolnshire Wolds Outdoor Festival. On this day, entry to the House and Gardens will be £7 per adult instead of £12, and Adult Garden Only tickets will be £3.50.
Lincolnshire Wolds Outdoor Festival
As part of the Lincolnshire Wolds Outdoor Festival, a selection of guided and social walks will take place during half term, giving visitors the opportunity to explore the surrounding landscape. An Archaeology Walk to Bratoft Manor will be held on 23 May, alongside Social Walks to Bratoft Manor on 23 and 30 May. Guided Walks to Bratoft Manor will run on 24, 25 and 31 May, while a Social Walk to Ice House Pond will take place on 26 May, offering a variety of walking experiences throughout the week.
Art and nature lovers can visit the Orchard Gallery throughout the entire half term, where Lincolnshire Vision of Nature, an exhibition by Doug Fossey in partnership with the National Trust, will be on display. The exhibition celebrates the natural beauty of Lincolnshire and offers a thoughtful, creative way to engage with the landscape.
Families are invited to take part in the ‘Nature Quest’ Half Term Trail, running from 23 to 31 May. This interactive trail encourages children to explore the outdoors, discover wildlife, and complete fun nature themed challenges around the property.
Also taking place from 23 to 31 May is Rose Week, with a floral display located in the Coach House. This celebration of roses highlights their beauty, history, and significance within the gardens and is a must-see for gardening enthusiasts.
The half term programme is rounded off with Steampunk, Regency and Roses, running from 24 to 25 May. This unique event blends historical fashion, imaginative steampunk style, and floral displays, creating a colourful and atmospheric experience for visitors of all ages.
Tattershall Castle, Lincolnshire, LN4 4LR
From Saturday 2 May to Sunday 31 May, families can enjoy The Newt Code Trail, a fun, self-guided activity running throughout the month. Children can follow clues around the site to crack the code, learning more about nature and wildlife along the way. The trail is designed to encourage exploration and curiosity, making it an engaging activity for younger visitors during May visits.
On Wednesday 27 May, visitors can take part in a Centenary Printing Workshop with Joanna Pass. This hands-on workshop celebrates printing and design, offering participants the opportunity to learn traditional printmaking techniques while creating their own centenary inspired prints. Led by artist Joanna Pass, the workshop provides a creative and immersive experience linked to the site’s history.
Belton Estate, Grantham, Lincolnshire, NG32 2LS
From 23 May, Pokémon fans new and old can get active outdoors on Belton’s Pokémon Trading Card Game Mega Evolution Trail. Families can team up to search the gardens for each Mega Evolution Pokémon, discover their powers, and complete challenges. Trail sheets will be available to collect on the day from the Info Hub and will be free with admission or membership.
Half term will also see fun family crafts take place on Thursday 28 and Saturday 30 May, making colourful ladybirds and creations inspired by the season. Plus, the National Trust’s largest outdoor adventure playground will be open as usual alongside The Ride indoor adventure play for weather-proof family fun.
Woolsthorpe Manor, Grantham, Lincolnshire, NG33 5PD
Families will be able to engage with the legacy of Isaac Newton in fresh and exciting ways this half term with brand new play activities in the courtyard. The interactive equipment, which arrives this month, includes a sand pendulum, water wall and Newton’s cradle. Plus, as always, the Science Centre will be offering the chance to have a go at some of Newton’s experiments and learn about his discoveries with games and hands-on fun.
Clumber Park, Worksop, Nottinghamshire, S80 3BE
From wild adventures in the woodland to family bike rides around the estate, Clumber Park offers the perfect setting for time together outdoors this May half term. Running from Saturday 23 – Sunday 31 May, there are 3,800 acres of parkland to explore, with plenty of space for children to play, discover and connect with nature.
For those seeking something a little more adventurous, The Great Big Tree Climb takes place on Saturday 30 and Sunday 31 May. Using ropes and harnesses, visitors can climb into the canopy of one of Clumber’s majestic trees and enjoy a unique view from above. £27.50 per person. Suitable for ages 6+. Booking essential via the Clumber Park website www.nationaltrust.org.uk/clumberpark
Open daily until 17.00. No booking required for entry.
The Workhouse & Infirmary, Southwell, Nottinghamshire, NG25 0PT
From Saturday 23 – Sunday 31 May, families can step into the past with stories to hear, trails to follow and plenty to spark curiosity.
Follow the Cheer Up Chuckaboo Trail and discover long-lost Victorian words and phrases as you explore the property (£2.50 per trail). Meet costumed characters and hear real stories of the people who once lived here with Tales from The Workhouse, running on Thursdays and Saturdays.
On Tuesday 26 May, explore Nottinghamshire’s textile heritage with the team from the Framework Knitters Museum, Ruddington. Try your hand at a Victorian circular knitting machine, learn about the history of framework knitting and its links to The Workhouse, and discover how this important local industry shaped lives across the county. Families can also enjoy traditional storytelling and browse a selection of handcrafted knitted items.
Open daily, 10.00–16.00 (last entry 15.00). No booking required.
To explore upcoming half-term opportunities and plan your visit, head to the National Trust website: Family-friendly | Notts & Lincolnshire | National Trust
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