Escape into autumn with the National Trust this October half term with Southwell Workhouse, Belton House and Clumber Park all among the destinations

As the nights draw in and the great outdoors transforms into a kaleidoscope of autumnal colour, the National Trust has a whole host of events to keep your little explorers entertained.

From ghoulish tricks to nature’s treats, get ready to enjoy heaps of family fun this October half term.

Track down the best autumn colour you can find on a walk with your family this October. Embark on a leaf hunt to find the biggest and brightest leaves, challenge your family to a game of Top Trunks, enjoy conker battles with friends or head off on a scavenger hunt to see what autumnal treasures you can find.

Discover the spooky side of National Trust places with Halloween-themed activities and events, from pumpkin spotting and creepy crafts to ghostly storytelling and spine-chilling Halloween trails.

Here we’ve rounded up some of the best and most exciting National Trust events and activities to keep the whole family busy this October half term.

Clumber Park:

Saturday October 21- Sunday November 5

From wild adventures in the woods, to family bike rides around the estate, there are plenty of ways to make memories at Clumber Park this autumn.

Starting from the Discovery Centre, Clumber’s Family Autumn Trail runs every day throughout half term and includes a variety of fun-filled activities, nature riddles and seasonal challenges. £3 per trail which includes a prize.

On Tuesday 24 - Thursday 26 October, join the team at Lake Brew, by the lake in Hardwick village, to make a bug hotel; a creative and completely natural way of providing insects and mini beasts with a place to nest over the colder months. Free event.

Normal admission into the park applies, no booking required. For more details visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/clumberpark

The Workhouse and Infirmary, Southwell:

Pick up a ‘pumpkin pie scone’ trail and set off on autumnal explorations through the kitchen garden and workhouse buildings.

Spot the different ingredients needed to create one of these yummy National Trust scones and receive a prize at the end, including a recipe to make a pumpkin pie scone at home.

There should be a variety of pumpkins in all shapes and sizes to choose from for a suggested donation in the visitor reception, which have been harvested from the Workhouse’s kitchen garden.

Normal admission charges apply. Additional charge for trail. Last admission one hour before closing. For more details visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/the-workhouse

And at our National Trust places nearby…

Hardwick Hall

(Doe Lea, Chesterfield, S44 5QJ)

Saturday 21 October – Sunday 5 November (9am – 6pm)

Crunch through the golden leaves, splash in muddy puddles and escape into autumn at Hardwick Hall! Venture though the vibrant estate on our free family pond walk creating journey sticks as you explore and play. Pickup a spotter sheet to become a leaf detective, create bark rubbing art and uncover the intriguing beliefs of the Elizabethan era. Don’t forget to leave your mark and attach your favourite foliage to our leaf bunting around the grounds.

Normal admission charges apply. Please note last entry to the house is at 2.45pm to allow time to explore the rooms in comfort. For more details visit https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/peak-district-derbyshire/hardwick

Belton House

(Grantham, Lincolnshire, NG32 2LS)

Saturday 21 – Sunday 29 October.

Engage the senses with an autumnal visit to Belton, as the Estate provides a stunning backdrop of auburn and gold for your half term adventures. Just like nature, Belton’s collection has transformed over time. Colour match your way around the mansion and discover how we care for the collection as it changes (available Thursday – Monday). Back by popular demand, pick up your tree trail guide and explore an impressive array of trees in the gardens and parkland. You’ll find lots to enjoy this autumn, including natural art in the Estate Yard, giant Leaf Art to add to, and new fungi walks. Or lend a hand on 26 or 27 October, and collect samples from the river witham, plant spring bulbs, or test out a new basement experience.

Booking your visit is essential. Plan your visit and book here: Belton House | Lincolnshire | National Trust

Longshaw, Burbage and the Eastern Moors

Saturday 21 – Sunday 5 November

There’s plenty to keep the family busy this half term. Creep through the woodland as you take on Longshaw’s autumnal spooky trail. Get creative with spooky crafts or simply enjoy the beautiful orangey reds of the landscape as you feel the crunch of fallen leaves underfoot. For those that really want to get into the Halloween spirit there’s also a spine tingling spooktacular for families with our Spooky Ghost Walk. Create and decorate your own lantern and use it to light your way through the spooky woods, as you are led by a mysterious guide with some tall tales to tell. Ghoulish treats and spooky snacks will be included at this event for all parents, children and little monsters. This event will sell out so please book in advance.