Spring into summer at Beaulieu this May Half Term (24th May – 1st June 2014)

During the May Half Term, 24th May - 1st June, spring into summer at Beaulieu and enjoy all the fantastic features of one of the south’s leading visitor attractions, as well as special activities for all the family.

Giant Chess

Giant Connect 4

Giant Drafts

In the grounds, have a go on some Giant Games! Get tactical with giant sized Noughts and Crosses, checkmate the king on the super-size Chess board and test out your logic skills with larger than life Connect Four. Budding drivers can get in the driving seat on Dipstick’s Driving Circuit, whilst younger visitors can get physical on the Mini Motor PlayTrail with its Veteran Bus climbing frame, swings and Little Tykes ride-on-cars.

In Beaulieu Abbey, join the costumed monk in a fun game to find out how medieval arches were built and discover how herbs were used in medicines in monastic times.
Visit the National Motor Museum and see over 250 vehicles on display, including Land Speed Record Breakers, F1 racers, classic family cars of the 30s and 40s, plus rare motoring oddities such as a giant orange on wheels. Walk through Jack Tucker’s, a 1930s country garage, and take a ride on Wheels, a fascinating journey through 100 years of motoring.
Don’t miss the first opportunity to see the brand new Motorcycle Story, which takes you on a journey through motorcycling history, showing the developments in technology and the changing trends in fashion, style and sport. The displays cover road safety, British youth culture of the 1950s and 60s and a wide range of racing disciplines.
Also new for 2014, For Britain & For The Hell Of It is a fascinating display featuring the museum’s iconic Land Speed Record cars; Bluebird CN7, Golden Arrow and the Sunbeams 350hp and 1000hp. These stunning vehicles are showcased alongside a stirring audio-visual presentation and a temporary exhibition of alternative Land Speed Record vehicles.

Visit World of Top Gear to see actual vehicles created by presenters Jeremy, Richard and James during some of their most memorable challenges. 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.

Visit Palace House, home of the Montagu family since 1538 and meet costumed staff who will tell you what life was like in the house during Victorian times. 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.

Visitors to Beaulieu on the 25th and 26th May can also enjoy Truckmania, an event taking place in the parkland which celebrates all things truck-related. See displays of trucks spanning 100 years, from horse-drawn carriages through to modern, environmentally-friendly lorries, watch the amazing BIGFOOT monster truck crushing cars and watch as truck drivers’ skills are put to the test in Truck Agility.

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 and Halloween at the Treasure Houses of England

Spooky goings on in Palace House, Beaulieu

For a happy Halloween and Half Term holiday, schedule in a spooky trip to the ever-spectacular Treasure Houses of England.

Beaulieu is one of Britain’s most haunted places and ghosts have often been seen and heard in the 13th century Abbey and at Palace House.  So if you’re looking for something spooky to do for Half Term, don’t miss the strange goings on at Beaulieu’s Ghost and Ghouls Half Term Hauntings (26 October – 3 November).  From a Halloween quiz trail starting in the Motor Museum and spooky stories in Palace House to tours with real ghost hunters in the haunted Abbey for a super-scary day of chilling entertainment.  Throw into the magnificent mix, frightening face painting, a ride on the Moan-a-rail, and a Halloween lucky dip – and it’s a formidably frightening formula for a memorable and thrilling experience.

Halloween at Blenheim Palace

Blenheim Palace’s Halloween celebrations (26 October – 3 November) will cast a ghoulish spell of spooky entertainment and family fun with a 'Ghosts and Goblins' Halloween Hunt in the Pleasure Gardens hedge maze, a fantastic range of Halloween inspired arts and crafts activities, and spooky tours of the Palace on weekdays

Wrap up warm and tread through crispy Autumn leaves on Burghley’s Pumpkin Trail (28 October – 3 November) around the Sculpture Garden and explore Burghley House’s spectacular surrounds to find the hidden pumpkins and receive a special treat.  There’s also spooky family fun to be had by touring the state rooms by flickering candlelight – limited places please book in advance.

Castle Howard will host its first ever Halloween event when the magnificent  grounds of the historic house are transformed into a spooky wonderland for a family friendly ‘Chills and Thrills’ spectacular.

Halloween at Harewood

Book in advance for Chatsworth Luminaire in the House and Garden taking place 26-30 October. For the very first time the glorious interiors of Chatsworth will be open at night, atmospherically lit with candles and soft reflected light, whilst the garden will be lit with illuminations playing out the legend of Artemis, Goddess of the moon and the hunt.

Sink into the delights of the season and admire Harewood in all of its Autumn Glory (26 October- 3 November) as a bevy of indoor and outdoor events celebrate the colourful season amongst beautifully inspiring scenery including trails, twilight tales and tasty treats, crafts and Hallowe’en fun.

Whilst on the farm at Hatfield you can enjoy their farm themed craft week and follow the Halloween Trails.

And don’t miss Holkham Hall where spooky spiders weave a magical web of fun and mystery! (27-31 October).  Visitors can explore magical and mystical mayhem – where spidery facts and body parts abound in the hall, hunt for them all and create your very own breed of spider whilst discovering some scary arachnid factoids along the way. Count the creepy crawlies hidden on their webs in the walled gardens and find your way out of the webbed maze.  At the Bygones Museum, home of Holkham’s largest spidery resident, there’s more entangling frights with mad scientists busy mixing their potions, spells, slime and smells, creating a horrifying hair-raising experience. Along with creepy craft activities, ghoulish face painting, pumpkin carving and frightfully delicious feasts to horrify your tastebuds to make your visit truly 'spooktacular'!

Halloween at Holkham Hall

Children will be enthralled and entertained to the max at Leeds Castle (26 October- 3 November) with a fantastic array of activities such as mask making and spooky themed crafts. Their ghoulish Ghost Tours (29, 30 & 31 October) will definitely stir the senses, as will the Fairfax Restaurant’s tasty store of Halloween themed food.

Or why not take a Bat Walk on Tuesday 29 October at WoburnAbbey where you can learn all about the species of bats living in the Abbey Gardens on an exclusive night-time tour.

www.treasurehouses.co.uk

• 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 House, 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 gardens.

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

Fun Farming at Chatsworth Farmyard for February Half Term

11 February to 19 February 2012

The Chatsworth Farmyard and Adventure Playground will be opening this Saturday (11 February) for the school half term holiday to give families a fun taste of rural farming. The packed line up includes rural demonstrations and activities; the chance to meet the Shire Horse and find out how they are dressed; learn how to spin thread from local wool; discover where the old pack horse routes are around the estate; find out how horse drivers work and see the local farrier making a horse shoe on his mobile forge.

With a large indoor barn, an indoor picnic room and a covered canopy area, the farmyard is a great place to visit this half term whatever the weather.  Children can plant out beans and make bird feeders to take home in the barn and enjoy some messy mud painting under the canopy.

The popular small animal handling and ‘Meet the Animals’ sessions for a chance to get up close to the larger farm residents will take place every day. The woodland adventure playground where children can climb, slide, swing and spin is a great place to let off steam and the cafe and shop will be open to complete a great day out.

The farmyard is open from 11 to 19 February from 10.30 to 4.30pm every day, with last entry at 3.30pm. For details of each day’s activities and ticketing options including a 10 percent discount for online booking, go to www.chatsworth.org

For further information on the Treasure Houses of England please visit www.treasurehouses.co.uk  

Holiday Fun at the Treasure Houses of England

Promising a mesmerising mix of entertainment especially for children, The Treasure Houses of England are poised to deliver a fabulous feast of family fun this February Half Term.

FEBRUARY HALF TERM
 

From 11th to 19th, take part in Beaulieu’s James Bond-themed quiz and enjoy the new Bond in Motion exhibition where there are over 50 original James Bond vehicles -  plus take part in an undercover army commando course.

 

Jump aboard the land-train for a joy ride down to the Lakeside Adventure Playground at Castle Howard, which is suitable for children (and adults!) of all ages.

 

Similarly, Chatsworth’s Farmyard and Adventure Playground offers an enticing array of activities for all (11-19 February).

 

To celebrate spring, Harewood gardens and grounds are hosting a range of activities and demonstrations for all the family including walks and talks from experts, alpaca wool spinning, pottery classes and a chance to enjoy the fresh air and fun in a glorious location.

 

Visit the brilliant Bloody Hollow – Hatfield House’s adventure playground (free to anyone who has purchased a ticket from the park) and Hatfield Park Farm (free for accompanied children) to see the various farmyard animals and play amongst spectacular surrounds.  The stableyard will also be hosting a great array of children’s activities during half term (15-19 February).

 

Leed’s Castle presents the Birds and Beasts Roadshow (11-19 February), which houses a huge range of animals, birds, spiders and snakes in a marquee near the maze. Get up close and personal with a bevy of creepy crawlies for an unforgettably fun and educational experience.

 

The Pleasure Gardens at Blenheim Palace is the perfect place for families to let off steam during February half term. Hop on the miniature train from the Palace for family fun in the Pleasure Gardens including the giant Marlborough Hedge Maze, Adventure Play Area, the Butterfly House and the Gardens Cafe.

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

Half Term Fun at Harewood with 'Love Nature, Love Harewood'

This February half term, Harewood looks forward to celebrating all things natural with a great week of events and activities for all the family. Surrounded by open spaces and burgeoning Spring gardens, Love Nature’s aim will be to shake off the winter blues, spark interest, learn through fun and celebrate the new season within the comfort of the gardens and grounds of one the nation’s favourite country homes. Plus there’s 10% off if you book ahead ….


Love Nature combines insightful activities and demonstrations, and Harewood provides handy facilities to keep all the family fed and watered.   See how alpaca wool is spun to create woolly masterpieces with the Yorkshire Alpaca Group, and join in and ‘paint and take’ your own piece of pottery with Fired Art Designs or join our Education team and try your hand at a range of crafts. Yorkshire based masters of wood, Mawdsley Williams will be on hand with wood furniture demonstrations to showcase their extraordinary skills in sourcing and making woodwork for their individual designs and showing how the environment inspires them in their work.  Get your hands dirty with seed planting workshops, pick a seed to plant and take it home to watch it grow! If you’re keen to get out and about, why not take part in a ‘walk and talk’ and gain a fascinating insight into the stunning gardens with Head Gardener, Trevor Nicholson, you’ll find out all sorts about the grand, venerable, ancient and elegant trees we have here… or watch the Red Kites circling the skies and find out more with a Red Kite talk from Yorkshire’s own Project Officer from Yorkshire’s original Kite programme, Doug Simpson (one day only, visit website for details). Bird Garden Curator, John Waller, is also offering a walk and talk all about the birds in the Bird Garden, which will include details on birds that can be seen around the gardens and grounds of Harewood at this time of year. The bird walk concludes with our resident penguins’ feeding time. Plus there’s make your own bird cake feeder, win a prize with Spot the Owl prize draw, visit The Old Kitchen Below Stairs for fun food demonstrations and much more. (Note. Some events need to be booked ahead and require a small additional spend – see below or visit our website for details).


Perfect for all the family, Harewood has it just right this half term.  Whether you have a love of gardens, birds or simply for the great outdoors, Harewood provides. Love Nature, love Harewood…

11 - 19 Feb 2012, 10am - 4pm.
Adult £10.00 Senior £9.00 Child £6.00 Family £30, includes all grounds (State Floor closed). Below Stairs is open.
10% discount on pre-booking discount applies.
Harewood Members Free.
Pottery ‘make and take’ £5 upwards per head
Garden walk and talk free
Bird Garden walk and talk free
Red Kite talk free
Visit www.harewood.org/LoveNature for more details

Harewood Winter opening 7 Jan – 30 March (Below Stairs open half term only, limited menu in café weekdays – some parts of the garden may be closed over the Winter Season – please check website) 10am – 4pm
Open daily for half term week 11 to 19 February 10am - 4pm
Members Exhibition Preview Day 30 March
Daily opening 31 March – 4 November 10am – 6pm
(House 31 March - 30 September, & 27 October – 4 November 12 – 3pm)
Royal Harewood: State Floor, 31 March to 17 June

Entry is £5 throughout the winter November – February, general admission prices apply from 11 February onwards.
Special event prices apply on certain event days, please see website for details.

To be a member at Harewood and enjoy exclusive benefits, visit www.harewood.org/membership – membership also makes a great gift.

Recently awarded Gold in the Large Visitor Attraction category of the Enjoy England Awards, Harewood is an independent charitable educational trust set up to maintain and develop Harewood, its collections and grounds, for public benefit. Registered Charity No: 517753.  Harewood is the family seat of the Earl and Countess of Harewood and provides a great day out for all the family.  The House, with its outstanding art collections, splendid State Rooms and fascinating ‘Below Stairs’ exhibition, is set in spectacular landscaped grounds, which include formal gardens and gentle woodland walks, renowned Bird Garden, children’s Adventure Playground, a Bhutanese Stupa, waterfall and Himalayan Garden. 

Harewood House Trust, Harewood House, Harewood, Leeds LS17 9LG    info@harewood.org    0113 218 1010

For more information on the Treasure Houses of England please visit www.treasurehouses.co.uk