Half Term: Autumn Adventures at Tatton Park
Make the most of half term and get out in the fresh air to kickstart some amazing autumn adventures this October. The value of having great quality green spaces on our doorstep has never been so important and Tatton Park is thrilled to celebrate recently being awarded a Green Flag for 2020.
For some Halloween fun head down to the Farm where Luna the Dragon has lost her precious eggs, can you her find them all? Make sure to keep track of the amount so you can collect your reward at the end. Why not complete the trail dressed in your favourite goulish outfit and see if you can spot any of the Farm staff dressed up as well. Take a spooky selfie with Luna the Dragon in the eerie woodland, then collect your chocolate egg reward at the Farm exit.
Explore 50 acres of Gardens and discover Cheshire’s Wonderful Wildlife through 1930’s inspired art. Pick up a trial sheet and follow the route around the Gardens to see all 12 stunning poster designs, featuring native species to Mid Cheshire like the Barn Owl, Heron and Fox. Areas included in the exhibition are the Walled Kitchen Garden, Charlotte’s Gazebo, Dipping Pond, the Choragic Monument, Japanese Garden and Italian Terrace.
“Although this series is essentially ‘platform art’ and will be displayed across the Mid Cheshire Line, I am really excited to see them in the stunning gardens at Tatton Park… I really can’t think of a more picture-perfect ‘gallery'” said Nicky Thompson, the artist behind the exhibition.
On the back of your trail sheet you can draw or paint your favourite wild animal for a chance to win a fabulous art set. The competition is open to all children up to the age of 16. Selected entrants will be featured on social media and at Tatton Park.
For families looking to completely immerse themselves in nature and boost their wellbeing in a natural way, why not try the ancient art of Forest Bathing? This Japanese relaxation practice, known as shinrin yoku, is all about being calm and quiet amongst the trees, observing nature around you whilst breathing deeply. Watch out for perfect resting points nestled amongst the trees in the Gardens where you will find more information.
The 1,000 acres of ancient Parkland at Tatton are full of colour and exciting sounds. Autumn is the time of the deer rut – this a fascinating time when the deer make new families. During the rut the male deer will dress their antlers with grass and make loud bellows across the parkland. The male deer might even lock antlers and push each other around! While it looks very impressive, make sure the deer are left alone while they rut.
Parkland Map, Walks and Activity leaflets can all be picked up from the Welcome Building (located near the car park) to help you plan your walks in the Parkland, ranging from short excursions for mini explorers to longer trails for the more avid adventurer. Watch out for the special Autumn Forager Trail Sheet to record the sights and sounds you spot in the Parkland, available to download for free.
With Halloween inspired gifts and refreshments as well as a woodland adventure playground there’s plenty to keep the whole family entertained. Complete your adventure with a delicious Head Gardener’s picnic, perfect for al fresco dining whilst soaking up one of Tatton’s tremendous views. Featuring classic sandwiches, cakes and scones, picnic boxes are available to collect to pre-order online and collect from the Gardener’s Cottage Tea Room.
All visits to the Gardens and Farm need to be pre-booked online.
