Spring Into Easter at The Treasure House of England

For festive Easter fun and spring time celebrations, head to the Treasure Houses of England for a brilliant bounty of children’s entertainment - not to mention - an exciting Easter egg extravaganza at a multitude of venues. 

Easter bunny at Beaulieu

During the Easter holidays (5 – 21 April), young visitors to Beaulieu can follow an egg-citing trail and collect a sweet treat at the end. At the historic Palace House, youngsters can enjoy Easter-themed face painting as the whole family plays with a variety of traditional Victorian toys and games. Visitors over the Easter weekend may even get to meet the Easter Bunny!

There is plenty of family fun to be had over Easter weekend at Blenheim Palace, with an exciting Easter eggstravaganza of activities taking place. On 18 – 19 April children can enjoy the Blenheim Palace Easter Egg Hunt around the Pleasure Gardens, with clues to be solved and prizes to be won. A particular schedule highlight on 20 – 21 April sees popular children’s characters Peppa Pig, George, Mummy Pig and Daddy Pig - plus Fireman Sam - making appearances at intervals on each day. This event marks a not-to-be-missed milestone year as Peppa Pig celebrates its 10-year anniversary with ’10 Years of Muddy Puddles’.

The popular Burghley Easter Egg Hunt will once again be taking place in the Gardens of Surprise, (11am - 5pm, last admission 4.30pm) on Sunday 20 April. Follow the treasure hunt around the gardens and solve the riddle to claim your full-sized chocolate egg. Parents are also asked to test their Easter knowledge to try and win a family Season Card, with all participants entered in to the prize draw for a giant chocolate Easter bunny.

Cheer on Woolly Jumper and friends in the Lamb National with a visit Castle Howard. Join in with sheepdog demonstrations from the amazing Bob Hogg's Sheepdog Displays and test your sheep herding skills. There will also be children’s interactive trails around the grounds, face-painting and Molly the Rabbit who will be wandering the grounds with her basket of chocolate eggs.

Chatsworth will be hosting spring celebrations for the whole family throughout the school holidays (12-27 April), including an Easter egg trail through the house and a trail of golden eggs to discover in the garden. Over the Easter weekend (18-21 April) the farmyard and adventure playground will host its annual Easter egg hunts and Easter Eggspress trailer rides, with the Easter Bunny making special appearances throughout the weekend.

This Easter, Harewood House is offering a host of entertainment and activities for the entire family. In the Bird Garden visitors can see flamingos, parrots and owls, sneak a peek into one of the incubators, and feed the penguins. Alternatively, step back to Victorian times ‘Below Stairs’ in the House, discover hidden treasures behind cupboard doors, play dress-up or try themed crafts by creating your own bookmarks.  Step aboard a pirate ship or explore a fairytale castle as imaginations run wild in Harewood’s amazing Adventure Playground.

Visit Hatfield Park Farm to see the various farmyard animals including ducks, geese, turkeys, Hungarian Woolly pigs and cattle - and for the chance to feed the sheep and goats. Take a ride on the magical miniature train, which runs between 11am and 5pm on weekends, bank holidays and all school holidays, and journey amongst the scenic surrounds of Hatfield’s fabulous farm.

Join Holkham Hall for four jam-packed days of 'egg-citing' activities across the Easter weekend (Good Friday 18th April- Easter Monday 21st April).. Well-known children’s author Jackie Morris joins in the fun and will be talking about all the wonderful stories she has written and illustrated. Or a chance to visit the colourful yurt for plenty of storytelling and captivating tales too.

Easter at Leeds Castle

There are a bevy of fun-filled activities for children of all ages at Leeds Castle throughout the Easter Holidays (5-21 April). A family nature trail along the Woodland Walk will offer clues to collect in reward for a small prize, while the Easter weekend (18-21 April) welcomes Just Puppets and their special children’s production (suitable for ages 4 -10 years). Meet Mrs Mouse and friends, and sing and laugh with the characters on their adventures.  Have a go at hobbyhorse jousting, children’s mini battles and knight’s training at ‘Knight School’. A valid entrance ticket to Leeds Castle is required for all activities.

Follow an Easter egg trail, search for missing deer and meet some of the historical characters from World War I at Woburn Abbey and Gardens this Easter (18-21 April).  New exhibition Valiant Hearts: World War I - Woburn and its Stories brings history to life with a group of uniform-clad ‘Tommies’ talking about their frontline fighting experiences.

www.treasurehouses.co.uk

England’s Finest
The ten Treasure Houses of England are the finest houses, palaces and castles in England today.

Located in some of the most stunning landscapes across the country, the Treasure Houses are an inspiring visit for all ages and interests, enjoy world-renowned art collections, stately interiors, and find a whole host of exhibitions, all set in beautiful parklands.

Even if you haven’t visited yet, many of the Treasure Houses will already be familiar as they have also provided the backdrop for iconic television series and blockbuster films including Harry Potter, Sherlock Holmes and Pride & Prejudice.

One of the most compelling features of the Treasure Houses is they offer visitors a living history.  Most are still home to the families that have lived there for generations.

But forget old-fashioned images of historic houses, today’s Treasure Houses offer exciting new experiences for everyone to enjoy. Uncover hidden gems and dark secrets, follow cycle trails or stroll in beautiful gardens, enjoy contemporary sculpture and relax over afternoon tea.

The Treasure Houses change with the seasons, move with the times and always have something unexpected to offer, something new to discover making it a perfect day out.

Treasure Houses are:  Beaulieu, Blenheim Palace, Burghley, Castle Howard, Chatsworth, Harewood, Hatfield, Holkham, Leeds Castle and Woburn Abbey.

Treasure Houses Win at Hudson's Heritage Awards 2014 - Holkham Hall Win the Award for BEST FAMILY DAY OUT

WINNER:  Holkham Hall, Norfolk

Holkham Hall

BEST FAMILY DAY OUT

Holkham is one of the great estates of Britain, hidden in the extreme North of Norfolk.  It is in an area of exceptional natural beauty and the estate has been able to encourage a growing tourist market and build strong links with local communities.  Over the last few years, an increasing variety of activities have brought large number’s of young families into the park and innovative exhibitions at all times of year have widened the appeal of the house to younger audiences.

Last year saw the introduction of a new education team, a new woodland play area and tree house, new Discovery and Nature trails and you can now explore the park by bicycle, canoe, kayak or rowing boat or even by water zorbing! They have introduced the ‘wow’ factor to key events in the calendar, with a snowy Forest and Gingerbread Room at Christmas, a giant Chocolate egg to win at Easter, a 3 day May Day cycle festival and spooky tours at Halloween.

The judges recognised that visiting children and adults of all ages, including the local community, had been given new opportunities to engage with the landscape, park, architecture and collections and discover new ways of enjoying this fantastic protected heritage setting.2014 Hudson's Heritage Award Winners

About Hudson's Awards

The Treasure Houses Of England

The Treasure Houses of England are 10 of the most magnificent palaces, houses and castles in England today. Together they attract in excess of 2.8 million visitors annually.

Members are Beaulieu, Blenheim Palace, Burghley, Castle Howard, Chatsworth, Harewood, Hatfield House, Holkham Hall, Leeds Castle and Woburn Abbey.

One of the most compelling features of the Treasure Houses of England is that they all offer the visitor a living history. Most are still homes to the great families who have owned them for generations. Others keep their heritage alive by re-creating scenes and events that have dominated and shaped England from the 9th century to the present day.

Between them they house some of the most important art collections in the world with famous works from artists such as Van Dyck and Gainsborough. The connoisseur of fine furniture, porcelain and china will find priceless examples of Chippendale, Wedgwood and Meissen.

Each house is an architectural masterpiece surrounded by beautiful parklands and garden

Visit England’s Best Visitor Attraction This Summer 20th July – 1st September 2013

Summer Fun

Skittles on the lawn

Awarded Gold by VisitEngland in the 2013 Awards for Excellence, you are assured of a great day out at Beaulieu this summer. Between 20th July and 1st September, join the Victorian house party in Palace House with music in the Lower Drawing Room, family games outside on the lawns and daily playlets to enjoy. See Veteran and Vintage cars motoring around the grounds, and watch the Victorian cyclist on his Penny Farthing. In the picturesque Beaulieu Abbey Cloisters, learn about the history of falconry and watch special daily flying demonstrations to see some of these amazing birds in flight.

Join the Victorian gardener for a tour of the Kitchen Garden where produce for Palace House is grown. Meet Brother William, the Cistercian monk who strolls the pathways of Beaulieu’s Abbey Cloisters and hear his talks on the folk law of herbs and the life of the monks who lived in the Abbey.

See the National Motor Museum’s exciting exhibition, BOND IN MOTION, with 50 original vehicles from the James Bond films. Some of Bond’s most iconic vehicles are on display, including the aquatic Lotus Esprit S1 from The Spy Who Loved Me, the quirky ‘Little Nellie’ autogyro from You Only Live Twice and the vanishing Aston Martin Vanquish from Die Another Day plus vehicles from the latest film Skyfall. There are also film clips and exclusive behind-the-scenes footage from some of the most impressive vehicle stunts.

View the museum’s collection of over 250 vehicles, from Land Speed Record Breakers to F1 racers, and take a ride on ‘Wheels’, a journey through 100 years of motoring history.  New for 2012, On Screen Cars has car stars of the TV and film world, including Mr Bean’s lime green Mini and Harry Potter’s ‘flying’ Ford Anglia. Enter the ‘World of Top Gear’ to see genuine cars from the presenters’ most ambitious challenges on the popular BBC motoring show.

Take a ride on the high-level Monorail to get a birds-eye view of the cars as you travel through the roof of the museum, see the sights from the open-topped replica 1912 London Bus or head to the Arena and get in the driving seat on the Go-Karts.* 

Budding young drivers can take to the road on Dipstick’s Driving Circuit** in mini motorised vehicles while younger visitors can enjoy the Mini Motor Play Trail with its Veteran Bus climbing frame, swings and Little Tykes ride-on-cars.

Beaulieu is open daily from 10am to 6pm. For further information visit www.beaulieu.co.uk

* A good value extra charge applies to this ride. Please check www.beaulieu.co.uk for Go Kart running dates. ** Height restrictions apply.

Trucks Galore Attending Beaulieu’s Truckmania Sunday 26th & Monday 27th May 2013

In just a few days, on Sunday 26th and Monday 27th of the May Bank Holiday weekend, Beaulieu’s newest event, Truckmania will be rumbling into the grounds of the National Motor Museum. Lots more trucking companies and activities have now been confirmed for this fantastic family event.

Beaulieu is delighted to announce that trucking star and Twitter sensation, Mark Dixon, will be attending the event. Visitors will have the opportunity to meet Mark, who has been tweeting about the show in recent weeks, and can hear him in conversation with show presenter, Kevin Harris.

A range of colourfully customised and branded trucks will be on display, including a Lewis Hamilton F1 themed truck from Sean M Taylor Transport, an Ice Truckers’ branded lorry provided by KER Transport and a number of film-branded vehicles from Dalton’s Transport, including The Hangover, Rocky and The Avengers. Saints Transport and Harris Transport will also be in attendance at the event with their own lorry transport.

Sunseeker International Ltd will be bringing a Sovereign boat belonging to Sunseeker founder, Robert Braithwaite. The boat, which Robert drove in the James Bond film, QUANTUM OF SOLACE with Daniel Craig onboard, will be displayed on a Volvo truck.
A whole range of transport vehicles will be attending the event, spanning the motoring generations. White & Co PLC will be displaying one of their oldest commercial vehicles, the dray, alongside one of their most modern, eco-friendly lorries, Bournemouth & Poole Preservation Society will be showing a selection of their stunning classic and vintage vehicles, and a fully-restored 1910 fuel tanker, complete with Anglo American Oil Company stamped brass hub covers will be on display for visitors to see, courtesy of its owner and restorer, Alan Chandler.

There will be plenty of trucking demonstrations and displays to keep families entertained. World-famous monster truck, BIGFOOT, will be performing in two live, action-packed displays each day. In the morning, this motoring leviathan will be demonstrating its power in the Beaulieu Arena, and in the afternoon, wowing visitors with some incredible stunts in the event fields including car crushing, with cars provided by vehicle recycling specialists, Silverlake Garage. Watch as truckers take part in Truck Agility, a series of skills tests designed to make even the most experienced truck drivers break out in a sweat as they manoeuvre around an obstacle course.

There will be plenty of opportunities for visitors to get involved in the trucking action too. Mums and Dads can test their strength in Tug-a-Truck, to see how far they can pull a real lorry cab and every brave person who has a go will receive an ‘I’ve pulled at Beaulieu’ badge to wear proudly. Meanwhile younger visitors can take a ride in mini trucks on Beaulieu’s Dipsticks Driving Circuit* and have a go on the fairground dodgems free of charge, plus enjoy an inflatable playground**.

Beaulieu is also pleased to welcome Mini World to Truckmania. This incredible model-sized track, complete with a wide range of remote controlled model trucks, will be recreating trucking scenarios on a small scale, from construction sites to road networks, in the Grand Marquee. Visitors can have a go at controlling one of these amazingly detailed models on a specially designed circuit.

Each day, Beaulieu’s visitors can vote for their favourite truck in the People’s Choice Awards, and each afternoon, the driver whose vehicle has received the greatest number of votes will be presented with a Beaulieu Trophy.

Truckmania can be seen as part of a visit to the whole Beaulieu attraction. See the National Motor Museum and exciting James Bond vehicle exhibition, BOND IN MOTION, World of Top Gear, Beaulieu Abbey, Palace House and the beautiful gardens, plus enjoy unlimited rides on the high-level Monorail.

Beaulieu attraction admission tickets are available to buy on arrival on the day of your visit, or at a discounted rate in advance online at www.beaulieushop.co.uk

For more information about Truckmania, please visit www.beaulieuevents.co.uk or join the conversation with @Beaulieu_Hants on Twitter using #truckmania

*Maximum height restriction of 127cm (4’ 2”)
**A small extra charge applies to this activity

Spring into summer at Beaulieu

Bluebird

Lotus Esprit Wet Nellie from The Spy Who Loved Me

Richard Kiel The Spy Who Loved Me

During the May Half Term, 25th May – 2nd June, spring into summer at Beaulieu and enjoy all the fantastic features of one of the south’s leading visitor attractions, plus special activities for all the family.

In the grounds of the parkland, have a go on some Giant Games! Balance blocks in a towering Jenga game, get tactical with giant sized Noughts and Crosses and test out your logic skills with larger than life Connect Four.

Visit the National Motor Museum and see over 250 vehicles on display, including Land Speed Record Breakers, F1 race cars, family cars of the 30s and 40s, plus rare motoring oddities such as a giant orange on wheels.

Younger visitors can follow a Quiz Trail through the museum’s BOND IN MOTION exhibition, the largest ever display of original James Bond vehicles. Answer the questions, crack the code, and hand in your completed quiz sheet for the opportunity to be entered into a draw to win a Bond-themed prize. See some of Bond’s most popular and iconic vehicles, including the Lotus Esprit S1 ‘submarine’ car from The Spy Who Loved Me, the quirky Crocodile Submarine used in Octopussy and the Die Another Day Aston Martin Vanquish with ‘adaptive camouflage system’.

On Sunday 26th May, actor Richard Kiel, who played famous Bond villain Jaws, will be in BOND IN MOTION meeting and greeting visitors. Richard starred in ‘The Spy Who Loved Me’ and ‘Moonraker’ and at a towering seven feet and 1.75 inches tall, was famously recognisable for his razor sharp steel teeth.

Visitors will be able to purchase Richard's autobiography, 'Making it Big in the Movies' plus copies of his official photographs. He will happily sign purchases and pose for a photograph, so don't forget to bring a camera!

Richard will be accompanied by Blanche Ravelec, who played his true love 'Dolly' in ‘Moonraker’ and they will be signing for periods between 10.30am and 4pm.

Visit World of Top Gear to see actual vehicles created by presenters Jeremy, Richard and James during some of their most memorable challenges, including two from the latest series; Richard and Jeremy’s exploding ‘Grannymobile’ and the P45 micro car driven through the British Library by Jeremy.

The ‘Enormodrome’ recreates the feel of the Top Gear studio with regular features from the programme, including the Cool Wall and the Celebrity ‘Lap Times’ board, kept up to date in line with the show. Visitors can also watch behind-the-scenes footage of the Top Gear production zone and clips of some of the best Top Gear moments.

Monorail Bus

Take a ride on the high-level Monorail or hop onboard the open-topped veteran London bus for a different way to explore the grounds.

See Palace House, home of the Montagu family since 1538 and discover the history of 13th century Beaulieu Abbey in the Domus Exhibition of Monastic Life.

All-inclusive attraction admission tickets can be bought on the day of your visit, or take advantage of the 10% discount offered on tickets bought in advance online at www.beaulieushop.co.uk

Beaulieu is open daily, 10am – 5pm. For more information, visit www.beaulieu.co.uk

Half-Term Fun At The Treasure Houses Of England

Forget old-fashioned images of historic houses - today’s enigmatic Treasure Houses present something for everyone with a wealth of entertainment from special exhibitions, superb shopping and afternoon tea to children’s play areas, discovery tours and activity days. Discover Capability Brown landscapes and contemporary sculpture gardens while the kids amuse themselves in spiraling mazes.
Presenting a spectacular schedule of events this month, from live theatre performances, jousting, historical characters, to dressing up boxes and quiz trails – not to mention an array of wildlife, farm animals, cycle trails and walking paths - expect an animated and action-packed experience for all the family.

Here’s just a few highlights of days out for half-termThe whole family can enjoy a great day out over the Bank Holiday weekend at Beaulieu with Truckmania (26-27 May) where you can get up close and personal to some amazing machines and all day action with Monster Truck Displays and more!


From Saturday 25th May to Monday 27th May step back in time to the 17th Century and see the English Civil War come to life with the largest historical re-enactment group in Europe, The Sealed Knot Society. Enter a world of shining armour, muskets, swords and pikes and experience what life was like during the English Civil War, both on and off the battle field, with a weekend full of action packed historical entertainment in the beautiful surroundings of Blenheim Palace.

Enjoy a whole host of country attractions and entertainment at the Living Heritage Game and Country Fair at Burghley (26-27 May).  The Falconry village includes a flying arena as well as some resident falconers. Equestrian demonstrations will take place as well as scurry racing and mounted games.

Come and see the best of what Yorkshire has to offer at Castle Howard’s Whippets & Wellies event (25-27 May).  Sample delicious local produce at the food marquee, pick up some unique Yorkshire crafts or watch the exciting performers and demonstrations in the main ring.


The most spectacular Medieval Festival returns to Harewood for a second fantastic year (26-27 May).  Immerse yourselves in medieval times, watch in amazement and cheer for your favourite knight at the joust, gasp at the battles or have a go at archery and if you are unlucky – get locked in stocks.


Learn something new in May at Holkham’s Discovery Days – Discover some of the wildlife found within the Park (30 May) with some hands on, fun family activities or explore Holkham’s award winning beach and national nature reserve (31 May).



There’s daily displays of Medieval Jousting at Leeds Castle (28 May – 2 June) with spectacular action, daredevil stunts, falls, fights and brave Knights on galloping horses!




Don’t miss some early outdoor theatre with Cambridge Touring Theatre’s acclaimed production of Treasure Island featuring at Castle Howard (30 May), and at Chatsworth (31 May).




Visit the Hatfield garden Show (31 May – 2 June), held in front of Hatfield House with its newly restored frontage and within the spectacular gardens and grounds.  The special event will feature garden experts, wide selection of seeds and plants, the very latest gardening equipment as well as drop in workshops

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Treasure Houses of England
The Treasure Houses of England are ten of the most magnificent palaces, houses and castles in England today. Members are Beaulieu, Blenheim Palace, Burghley House, Castle Howard, Chatsworth, Harewood, Hatfield House, Holkham Hall, Leeds Castle and Woburn Abbey.  Each has its own unique charm and all combine together to give a fascinating insight into life in England over the centuries

One of the most compelling features of the Treasure Houses of England is that they all offer the visitor a living history. Most are still homes to the great families who have owned them for generations. Others keep their heritage alive by re-creating scenes and events that have dominated and shaped England from the 9th century to the present day.

Between them they house some of the most important art collections in the world with famous works from artists such as Van Dyck and Gainsborough and priceless antiques including Chippendale, Wedgwood and Meissen.

Discover hidden gems and dark secrets, follow walks and adventure trails in beautiful parklands and gardens, enjoy classical concerts, outdoor theatre, family fun and relax over afternoon tea:  the Treasure Houses change with the seasons, move with the times and always have something unexpected to offer, something new to discover.

Find out more: www.treasurehouses.co.uk

Leeds Castle treasure hunt could win you real treasure!

Follow a family treasure trail through the grounds of Leeds Castle this Easter bank holiday to be in with a chance of winning a collectable British Gold Sovereign.

From the 29 March to the 1 April, spring will be in bloom and an exciting treasure hunt will take you around the colourful grounds of the estate in search of answers and clues.There will be questions for children to answer in reward for a chocolate coin, as well as more challenging questions to complete to be in with a chance of winning one of Leeds Castle’s exciting experiences.

The final section of the treasure hunt will be the hardest and if you answer all the questions correctly, your entry will go into the draw to win a gold Sovereign.

Spring arts and craft activities will be available in an exciting marquee. A small additional charge of £2.50 per child applies, which will include a treasure hunt card, chocolate coin, badge and craft activities.

Visit the Leeds Castle shops for a delicious range of Easter treats including a new range of chicken themed fine bone china by Sophie Allport, unusual Chocolate Alchemist eggs and chocolate ducks sitting on mini egg nests, with prices from £1.50.

Your Key to the Castle ticket is valid for the daytime weekend event. Tickets cost £19.75 for adults; £17.50 for seniors and visitors with disabilities (carer goes free); £12.50 for children (under 4’s free). Tickets are valid for 12 months so you can pay once and visit all year round.

Leeds Castle is located near Maidstone in Kent just off Junction 8 of the M20 and only one hour’s drive from London. Grounds open at 10am daily and the castle is open from 10.30am. Last admission is 4.30pm and gates close at 6pm

Get Fit at Spectacular Treasure Houses of England

Get fit in supreme style this year by participating in everything from twilight walks to demanding triathlons at some of the most beautiful locations in the country. The Treasure Houses of England present the perfect space and backdrop for an array of exciting events while giving the opportunity to raise money for some incredible charities.

Beaulieu Estate is hosting Walk Ten for Marie Curie Cancer Care (10 August) – a unique twilight walk through the picturesque parkland and woods, for an inspiringly worthy cause. Meanwhile, Cycletta New Forest (13 October) is a women’s only event that guides cyclists through Beaulieu’s stunning setting on either a 40km or 80km route, promising a fun foray into cycling for any ability – and also offers a post-ride massage and helpful Helmet Hair Remedy Centre for participants.

Triathlon at Blenheim Palace

Watch the esteemed Leukaemia & Lymphoma Research Blenheim Palace Triathlon which is one of the biggest events in the UK  (8-9 June) and join the masses on the 6th October at the Blenheim Palace BHF Half Marathon. The Running Festival, where keen runners will be taking part in the half marathon and 10km runs to raise vital funds for the British Heart Foundation includes a Corporate Relay and brilliant Kids Activity Zone complete with Dodgeball for a fantastic warm up session for the 2km Family Fun Run.

For something really different why not take part in the Dirty Weekend at Burghley on the 11th May which is quite simply the World's Biggest Assault Course, followed by an Epic After-Party of Festival-proportions. The run itself consists of 2 options: The Full Mucker (20miles) and Half Mucker (13 miles) option for those who want most of the obstacles but who find the full distance a little much. http://www.burghley.co.uk/events-diary/#the-rat-race-dirty-weekend

Taking place on the Castle Howard Estate, with the breathtaking scenery of the Howardian Hills an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty as a backdrop, the Castle Howard Triathlon on the 21st July is considered one of the most demanding triathlons in the country. Now in its fourth year, this event is run by the Castle Triathlon Series. Races are available for children’s and adults, including an adult Olympic distance. For more details visit: http://www.castletriathlonseries.co.uk/en/castle-howard-race/

Explore the gorgeous grounds at Holkham Hall while attending the Pedal Norfolk Festival (4-6 May), a magnificent May Bank Holiday weekend of cycle rides, events, entertainment and activities featuring fabulous food and beer. With on site camping and accommodation readily available spend the entire weekend enjoying solo, club and family rides from 20k-50k challenges.

Participate in the charitable Willow 10k on Sunday 6th October 2013 at Hatfield House and help to raise funds for the foundation that helps to arrange special life-enhancing days for seriously ill 16-40 year olds.

On March 24th, Harewood is hosting Age UK’s Wrap Up and Run 10K, a popular chip-timed race which is part of the Spread the Warmth initiative.

Woburn Abbey - Challenge yourself and make a difference by raising money for charity at the second annual tri for life triathlon at Woburn Abbey. There are a range of events from the children’s Scootathlon (4yrs to 8yrs, 400m scoot, 400m cycle, 250m run) to the long distance triathlon (18 and over, 1500m swim /40km cycle /10km run) all set within the stunning setting of the 3,000 acre deer park. Woburn will also be hosting the UK’s leading series of women-only bike rides during their hugely popular Cycletta (30 June). Peruse cycle fashion wear and take advantage of pre-event training advice and motivational information before embarking on a safely managed 40km or 60km course along quiet country roads dotted with various treat stops. Finish at the Cycletta Village where the well deserved pamper zone awaits and marvel at your recent achievement in supreme style.

The Treasure Houses sporting calendar has something for all – from family fun events – including even some in fancy dress to more serious side of fitness with the acclaimed triathlons and marathons, and also the chance to watch some elite athletes at these unique venues.

Events Diary:
24 March 2013 Age UK’s Wrap Up & Run 10k Harewood

20 April 2013 NSPCC Sponsored Walk Blenheim Palace

28 April 2013 7km Run Blenheim Palace

4-6 May 2013 Pedal Norfolk Festival Holkham Hall

11 May 2013 Rat Race Burghley

11 May 2013 Pink Ribbon Walk Blenheim Palace

12 May 2013 Breast Cancer Care Ribbonride Blenheim Palace

19 May 2013 North Norfolk Marathon Holkham Hall

8-9 June 2013 Running Festival Blenheim Palace

29 June Norfolk Superhero Challenge Holkham Hall

30 June 2013 Cycletta Woburn Abbey

21 July 2013 Triathlon Castle Howard

10 August 2013 Walk Ten for Marie Curie Cancer Care Beaulieu

8 September 2013 Tri for Life Woburn Abbey

6 October 2013 BHF Half Marathon & Running Festival Blenheim Palace

12 October 2013 Motor Neurone Disease Oxfordshire Branch Walk Blenheim Palace

13 October 2013 Cycletta New Forest Beaulieu

Summer at the Treasure Houses of England - Great Days Out

Forget old-fashioned images of historic houses - today’s enigmatic Treasure Houses present something for everyone with a wealth of entertainment from special exhibitions, superb shopping and afternoon tea to children’s play areas, discovery tours and activity days. Discover Capability Brown landscapes and contemporary sculpture gardens while the kids amuse themselves in spiraling mazes.

Presenting a spectacular schedule of summer events, from live theatre performances, free runners, drive –in movies and historical characters, to dressing up boxes and quiz trails – not to mention an array of wildlife, farm animals, cycle trails and walking paths - expect an animated and action-packed experience for all the family.

The Treasure Houses of England are a spellbinding storybook spanning nine centuries, presenting visitors with a living history of England through the ages amidst beautifully scenic backdrops that have featured in TV and films such as ‘Harry Potter’ and ‘Sherlock Holmes’.

For a distinctive summer’s day out, take a trip to the houses for a magical mix of things to see and do – here’s just a few highlights:

 
Beaulieu’s popular drop-in summer workshops for younger visitors take place on a Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday throughout August.  Supported by the Caravan Club and linking in with the attraction’s BOND IN MOTION exhibition, the workshops will be on a Special Agent theme with poster and badge making, and model building with Meccano.

 

Families can hear about the daily life of people who lived and worked at Blenheim Palace in the 1920s, through the eyes of Mrs Crumpet the ‘Head Gardeners Wife’ with costumed entertainment ‘Stories from the Gardens’ bringing history to life over the summer holidays (21 July – 31 August).  Expend their energy with Blenheim Palace’s Active Spring Kids Camp (30 July - 3 August, 9am to 5pm, 7 to 16 years) where a variety of activities include archery/swing building, team building/adventure games, survival skills/cooking and more.   Take a trip by train to The Pleasure Gardens, where a bevy of exotic butterflies await.  Muddle round the Marlborough Maze, or let the kids loose on the action-packed Adventure Playground.

Burghley’s Garden of Surprises combines fun and history, featuring a moss house, the swivelling Caesar busts, basins of water, jets and a mirrored maze – all designed for optimum enjoyment for all ages.

 

Embark on a family adventure at Castle Howard for a magical and memorable day out.  Jump on the land-train and go wild down at the Lakeside Adventure Playground where 17-high energy, confidence-building pieces of equipment will amuse and entertain kids and adults alike.  Catch Castle Howard’s boat and set sail across the Great Lake to spy the wildlife and discover the parkland with their new illustrated trail and Geoffrey the Lion. And don’t miss their Get Active Weekend (26 – 27 August) to get stuck in to a range of new activities for all the family from weird and wonderful bikes to archery and climbing.
 
Visit Chatsworth this summer for a season of family fun in the house, garden, farmyard and adventure playground.   Children and adults can explore the new Climbing Forest in the adventure playground, meet lots of friendly animals and enjoy an array of free seasonal activities in the farmyard.

 


 

Harewood invites visitors into its beautiful Bird Garden to see many species of rare and exotic birds from all over the world, including penguins, flamingos and parrots. Follow up with a spell in the Adventure Playground and climb, clamber, slide and swing your way around. Inside the house, play dress up in servants’ clothes and step back to Victorian times or discover the hidden delights behind the cupboard doors…

From a fun children’s quiz to Horrible Histories written by Terry Deary – Hatfield House presents an eclectic mix of entertainment. Bloody Hollow is an exciting adventure play area featuring a rope bridge, aerial runway and a tree house, plus all the favourites such as swings, springies and a seesaw. Don’t forget to have a tractor ride and meet all the animals at Hatfield Park Farm.

 Holkham Hall’s Bygones Museum houses a vast collection of more than 4,000 fascinating exhibits ranging from mechanical toys and agricultural tools to vintage cars and massive steam engines dating from the Victorian period to the mid-1900s.  Outside, hit the cycle park to explore even more of the estate – and new for 2012 – both adults and youngsters can savour the experience with a recumbent (lie back cycle) or scooter!  Don’t miss Holkham’s watery world too with leisurely lake cruises and boat hire, or if you’re feeling adventurous, try water zorbing to really get your heart racing.  Then schedule in a visit to the beach at Holkham - one of the largest Nature Reserves and most unspoilt and beautiful stretches of sand in the country.


At Leeds Castle, dive into the The Knights’ Realm Playground - a huge adventure playground built entirely in wood. Climb the Maiden’s Tower, scale the Revetment Wall, joust along an aerial runway, cross the perilous bridge between the New Castle and Gloriette and explore the Secret Tunnels. Slides, bash bags and rope walkways all add to the fun.  Throw into the mix a Toddlers' Play Area, spiralling Maze and underworld Grotto, Turf Maze and daily falconry displays (except Tuesday’s & Thursday’s) – and Leeds Castle ensures a formidable formula of fun for all the family.

Boasting 30 acres of serene formal and natural garden environments – the Abbey Gardens at Woburn Abbey include everything from manicured lawns and colourful flowerbeds to peaceful woodland glades and ponds teeming with life.  Discover the bog garden - a recent addition with its carnivorous plants, the romance of the recently restored Doric Temple and watch the recreation work in progress on the rockery and grotto.  Offering free children's activities such as quiz booklets to help them discover lots of fun facts; they can also take part in free entertainments in Woburn’s gardens, including storytelling, and art and craft activities (21st July to 5th September).



The Treasure Houses of England (THE) is a consortium of 10 of the country’s finest palaces, historic houses and castles. Unique in character, each property has its own magical blend of magnificent architecture, fabulous surroundings, world class collections and family attractions to enjoy.

For more information visit www.treasurehouses.co.uk