Discover the simple pleasures of being outdoors with the family across North Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire this October half-term with the National Trust.

Derbyshire

Longshaw, Burbage and the Eastern Moors, Derbyshire

Become a nature detective and search for signs of autumn at Longshaw in our autumn trail from Saturday 22 October – Sunday 6 November, 10am – 3pm. Spot acorns nestled in the leaves on the ground, count how many different colours you can see in the woods, and keep a lookout for our resident red deer roaming around the estate.  Trails cost £1 and are available from the Welcome Building.

Autumn is also the perfect time to discover marvellous mushrooms at Longshaw. Put on your wellies and wander through the woods for the chance to see these weird and wonderful forms. From brightly coloured waxcaps to the strangely named candle snuff fungus, there are lots to spot – how many will you find?

Hardwick Estate: Stainsby Mill, Chesterfield, Derbyshire

Staff and volunteers will do their final tours of the year during half-term.

See this waterwheel-powered mill that has been around for over 800 years and was used to provide flour for the Devonshire family up at the Hardwick Estate. This mill includes most of the original metalwork, millstone, kiln and drying floor, and may inspire your little ones to become the next Great British Bake-Off winner!

For more information and to book a tour visit https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/hardwick-estate-stainsby-mill

Nottinghamshire

Clumber Park, Worksop, Nottinghamshire

Hire bikes from the Cycle Hub, or bring your own, to explore the woods and lakeside views of Clumber Park. Have fun den building in the natural play area, enjoy climbing, hiding and exploring in the hidden Woodland Play Park. Look out for wildlife as you explore the Pleasure Grounds or spend a peaceful moment in the busy Bird Hide.

The Discovery Centre is a must see when visiting. It’s a great place to learn more about Clumber Park’s history, the amazing array of wildlife and get involved in seasonal craft activities. In October, families can enjoy a range of autumn and Halloween themed events and activities, including a Family Photo Scavenger Hunt (15-30 October) Apple Week celebrations (17-23 October), interactive Halloween adventure with Sneaky Experience (Saturday 29 October) & Breakfast with the Spooks (29 & 30 October).

Find out more at https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/clumber-park/whats-on

The Workhouse and Infirmary, Southwell, Nottinghamshire

Over at The Workhouse and Infirmary in Southwell, families can pick up a pumpkin trail from Wednesday 19 – 28 October (suggested donation £1 per trail). There will be opportunities to take home some real pumpkins from the kitchen gardens for a small donation, all carefully grown by a dedicated team of gardening volunteers.

‘Workhouse: Live!’ is also returning on Thursday 20, Saturday 22 and Thursday 27 October, which is an exciting time to meet workhouse characters carrying out traditional tasks.

On Saturday 29 and Sunday 30 October visitors can join in with some apple antics as the workhouse celebrates Southwell’s Bramley Apple Festival with free entry onto the large field in front of the workhouse main building. Get involved with an apple peeling competition or do some apple printing. If you want to explore further, normal admission charges apply but there is an apple trail to pick up on admission which takes you into the workhouse on the search for hidden apples found by solving clues.

The Workhouse and Infirmary is open Wednesday to Sunday from 10.30am – 4pm. Last admission one hour before closing.