February half term events in Kent at National Trust properties

by Lauren Abbott

labbott@thekmgroup.co.uk

Let the kids get messy, muddy and back to nature with the National Trust during February half term.

From places to play wild to wildlife trails and photography classes there is lots to keep families busy. Here are some top activities for a wild day out in February...

No visit to Chartwell would be complete without a clamber through the Tree House

Family trail: Art at Chartwell, Westerham

Running until Saturday, February 23

Explore the garden at Chartwell through the eyes of Sir Winston Churchill and his paintbrush. Churchill was an avid painter who used this hobby as a way of escaping his busy life. Discover frames and paintings in the landscape on this interactive trail. Try out the new interactive display in Churchill’s art studio to find out all about the places he went to and how he painted.

Price: The trail is free but normal Chartwell admission charges apply. For more information, please visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/chartwell

The National Trust is encouraging families to get out whatever the weather

Scotney Castle Murder Mystery trail, Lamberhurst

Saturday, February 15 until Sunday, February 23

Visit the house and help to solve a crime this half term. Search the rooms and be ready to ask the suspects some questions. Collect the answers to work out who committed the crime and which object from the collection was used, before collecting your prize from Visitor Reception. Normal admission charges apply plus £2 per trail.

Nature photography workshops for children, Scotney Castle, Lamberhurst

Thursday, February 20

Budding young photographers can join a nature photography workshop with Sharp Shots Photo Club. Chose from a morning workshop for 7-11 year-olds or an afternoon workshop for teenagers aged 12-15.

Price: Photography workshops £39. Normal admission applies.

For more information, please visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/scotney-castle

February half term fun with the National Trust

Plant Explorers Trail, Emmetts Garden, Sevenoaks

Saturday, February 15 until Sunday, February 23

Between 10am and 4pm follow the adventures of the famous Victorian plant explorer, Ernest Wilson. Plant hunters journeyed across the globe to find their botanical treasures, hoping to be the first to bring their latest specimens back home. Become a plant hunter at Emmetts Garden and see what you can discover as you adventure around the gardens.

Price: £1 per child and normal admission applies.

For more information, please visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/emmetts-garden

Animal Homes Trail, Ightham Mote, Ivy Hatch, Sevenoaks

Saturday, February 15 until Sunday, February 23

Follow the trail around the gardens to discover which of our native creatures live at Ightham Mote. They may be having a snooze until the weather gets a bit warmer, so you’ll need to use your stealthiest detective skills to spot them.

Price: Taking part in the trail is free but normal admission charges apply. For more information, please visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ightham-mote

Children's windchime workshop, Knole, Sevenoaks

Wednesday, February 19 and Thursday, February 20

Design your own set of windchimes using paints, ribbons, beads and feathers at these craft classes between 10.30am and noon on each day. The activity is suitable for children aged five to 11.

Price: £8 per child for a class, normal parking and admission charges to Knole apply. Families can pair their visit with a wander through the magnificent deer park to spot even more wildlife on their travels. More details at www.nationaltrust.org.uk/knole

For more suggestions of things to do in February half term please click here.