Come to Polesden Lacey this half term for a bit of May-hem!

It’s Polesden Lacey May-hem! As part of the National Trust’s ’50 things to do before you’re 11 ¾ ‘ campaign, children can choose to hunt for mini-beasts or a spot of orienteering (or even do both like we did!), from 11am every day, Saturday 24 May to Sunday 1 June. We visited on Sunday 25th May, a fine day as far as weather goes too!

For the price of normal admission, plus £1 per activity, pick up a trail journal with lots of information on the bugs you might find in the Polesden grounds, and the best places to start looking. Or find your way around the gardens using only a map and compass. Collect the secret letters, but don’t get lost!

At the end of the trail there are further activities to do – see the world like a fly would by wearing the groovy glasses! Do some bark rubbing on the trees (and we used our new Usborne cards to spot which trees we’d chosen as well) and feel how a fly can walk up a wall.

Of course, a trip to Polesden Lacey isn’t complete without a walk around the grounds which these two trails are perfect for – plus they follow the same route so if you’re feeling really adventurous, do both! How else can you check whether you like butter or not? Or spend a quick half hour in the natural play area? While there aren’t many toilets around the grounds, there are plenty of refreshment stops, which we made good use of (as well as the fantastic cafe as you come in which was well replenished and had freshly baked food on offer).

’50 things to do before you’re 11 ¾’ is a great way for your family to enjoy a day out together, including trails, activities and loads of inspirational ideas.

You can visit any participating National Trust place to pick up your 50 things scrapbook; then download a planner to find out where to tick off the activities in your area at nationaltrust.org.uk/southeast.

You can log your adventures, unlock secret challenges and collect rewards at nationaltrust.org.uk/50things.