‘Go wild’ on a day out at Hall
THE National Trust’s Rufford Old Hall is encouraging families to get active outdoors this summer, with an action-packed programme of events and activities happening every day until September 4.
Always popular with families at this time of the year, the 500-year-old house and gardens near Ormskirk are filled with five centuries of Lancashire history.
While the house is famous for its classic Tudor architecture and treasured collections, it is across the property’s gardens and woods where families are being invited to go wild.
There will be plenty of opportunities to get up-close and personal with wildlife on August 6, when the lid will be lifted on the gardens’ resident beehives as the beekeeper reveals the secrets of caring for honeybees.
On selected Sundays, the North West Reptile Club will also be bringing along a menagerie of cold-blooded companions for visitors to see and touch.
As part of the National Trust’s list of “50 things to do before you’re 11¾”, families can take part in a mud pie-making session and learn how to make their very own home for bugs.
For families who want to get active
outdoors, Rufford Old Hall has several balance bikes that are free to hire and perfect for teaching young children how to ride.
There are also archery sessions, den building in the woods and a free sports box filled with games to choose from.
“We really wanted to make Rufford a place where families can make the most of the outdoors this summer,” says Rufford’s visitor experience officer, Catherine Hazley.
“So, whether families are looking for adventures in the woods or to quietly explore along the canal, there’s truly something for everyone to enjoy every day of the holidays.”
Rufford Old Hall’s Victorian Tea Room will be open every day serving a range of hot and cold food, cakes, snacks and drinks, and there are several picnic areas for visitors to use.
Free on-site parking is available for visitors, too.
Entrance is free to National Trust members and under-fives, while normal entry prices apply to non-members.
For more information, please visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/rufford-oldhall or call 01704 821 254.