If you want to spoil mum this Mother’s Day, why not treat her to a special day that she’ll never forget? Spend some precious time together as a family and help make Mother’s Day even more memorable.
Whether you decide to have a delicious afternoon tea, take a spring time stroll or make your very own gift, with the National Trust you can really treat mum and show her just how special she is.
Here are a few Mother’s Day top spots for inspiration:
Beningbrough Hall, Gallery and Gardens, North Yorkshire
Beningbrough is a Georgian mansion, which is home to one of England’s finest baroque interiors and an outstanding collection of portraits of the most powerful and influential people of the eighteenth-century. Outside, enjoy colourful Edwardian borders, working Victorian walled garden, labyrinth and family trails – all less than 15 minutes from central York.
Royals: Then and Now, daily until 1 November, 12pm – 4.30 pm
Let mum enjoy contemporary royal portraits from the National Portrait Gallery including the dashing painting of Prince William and Prince Harry by Nicky Philipps. Introducing contemporary works of art to Beningbrough for the first time, this display marks the 300th anniversary of the accession of the house of Hanover that lasted until Queen Victoria’s death, and shows members of the Royal family of today in the context of their ancestors.
Normal admission fees apply
For more information please call 01904 472027
Make a weekend of it: The Victorian Laundry holiday cottage is situated close to the hall and a great base for those wanting to explore the estate and the local area. It sleeps four and guests staying in the cottage get the unique chance to wander around the delightful walled garden and wood sculptures when everyone else has gone home.
Blickling Estate, Norfolk
Blickling Hall is a majestic building that stands in almost 5000 acres. With its narrow hedges and tree lined lanes, woodlands and red brick buildings, little has changed over the centuries. Why not embark on a voyage of discovery and follow four centuries of history, from the Boleyn family to the RAF and Second World War. Learn what life was like as a servant and hear the voices of the people who kept Blickling alive. Outdoors there’s plenty to see and do, from taking a spring time stroll around the beautiful gardens to hiring a bike and exploring the grounds. And for wildlife lovers there’s plenty of local wildlife to spot, including woodpeckers, herons and owls.
Mother’s Day afternoon tea, 30 March, 3pm – 4.30pm
Gather the family together and experience a delicious afternoon tea served in the beautiful surroundings of Lord Lothian’s Study.
Ticket price £19.95 per adult – booking essential.
For more information please call the box office on 0844 249 1895 (booking fee applies).
Make a weekend of it: There are seven holiday cottages on the Blickling estate, including the magnificent ‘Tower’ converted from the second Earl of Buckinghamshire’s race stand. The ‘Tower’ sleeps four.
Brockhampton Estate, Herefordshire
This ancient and unspoilt estate offers hectares of traditional orchards and hedgerows, working farmland, woodland and a romantic nineteenth-century designed parkland. There are miles of walks with breath-taking views across the surrounding countryside to the Malvern and Clee Hills. Sitting at the heart of the estate is the picturesque medieval manor house at Lower Brockhampton. Surrounded by a moat and borders of seasonal flowers, the house is entered via a charming timber-framed gatehouse. Enjoy the tranquillity as you sit in the damson orchard or stroll along the nature trail to discover a rich variety of wildlife.
Mother’s Day, 30 March, 11am – 4pm
Visit Brockhampton estate this Mother’s Day and enjoy a selection of craft activities. You can make your own Mother’s Day card, try out some flower pressing, make your own bracelet and create some spring paper flowers. Why not treat mum to a special gift from the site shop or the mum’s day-off lunch offer?
Normal admission fees apply
For more information, please call 01885 482077
Make a weekend of it: The Old Mill Cottage is a postcard pretty cottage which dates from the fifteenth century. Lying in the heart of the wooded Herefordshire countryside on the beautiful Brockhampton estate, it sleeps three.
Bodiam Castle, East Sussex
Bodiam Castle is one of Britain’s most charming castles set in the heart of the High Weald. There are spiral staircases, battlements and lookouts where arrows once rained down over the original portcullis. Colourful castle characters and fascinating snippets of medieval castle life can be discovered as you wander through the ruined courtyard and the tower chambers. Enjoy a relaxing walk and the stunning countryside views with mum before heading to lunch.
Mothers’ Day lunch, 30 March, 12pm – 2pm
Spoil your mum with a lovely day out at Bodiam, a fairy-tale castle in picturesque East Sussex. Stroll around the grounds and pass the broad moat before enjoying a delicious three course lunch in the Terrace Room followed by free entry for mum to the grand castle.
There will be a special Mother’s day menu with a choice of meat, fish or vegetarian main course all served with seasonal vegetables followed by delicious desserts, hand-made on-site by the pastry chef.
Booking essential, tickets are £25 (Price includes castle entrance and parking for the day).
For more information, please call 01580 831320
Mothers Day at Castle Ward, County Down
Castle Ward, County Down
Sitting boldly on a rolling hillside overlooking Strangford Lough, the magnificent, eccentric eighteenth-century house oozes personality, boasting two very different styles of façade – one classical and the other Gothic. History meets re-creation throughout the 332-hectare walled demesne. A sixteenth-century tower-house stands firmly in the farmyard, while the working corn mill is a fine example of Irish industrial heritage. The exotic garden has 21 miles of walking, cycling and equestrian trails through woodlands and along the shoreline. An impressive laundry, tack room, children’s Victorian play centre and adventure playground complete the picture.
Afternoon Tea in Lord Bangor’s Sitting Room, 30 March 2014, 2pm, 3pm & 4pm
Treat your Mum to a delightful afternoon tea in Lord Bangor’s private quarters within Castle Ward mansion and then enjoy a guided tour.
Normal admission to grounds, afternoon tea tickets: adult £15
Booking essential, for more information, please call 028 4488 1204
Mother’s Day spring stroll and musical melodies, 30 March, 2.30pm-3.45pm Music: 1pm-3.30pm
Enjoy a stroll around Castle Ward with our knowledgeable guide who will lead you through the exotic Victorian sunken garden and around this stunning demesne. Then relax in the stableyard to the sounds of Vivaldi and other classical works.
Normal admission fees apply
For more information, please call 028 4488 1204
Make a weekend of it: The Potter’s Cottage sits on a working farm at the heart of the Castle Ward estate and gives immediate access to the parkland and shores of Strangford Lough. Sleeps four.
Chedworth Roman Villa, Gloucestershire
Chedworth Roman Villa is celebrating its 150th anniversary this year since Victorians discovered the site, and it’s one of the best preserved Roman villas in the country. The villa was home to some of the richest people in the country during its heyday. Walk in the footsteps of Romans and explore the extensive mosaic floors, bathhouse rooms and even under floor heating. Reflect on your visit with a glorious walk through the surrounding woodland and don’t forget to treat yourself to something delicious in the new café.
Matronalia- Roman Mother’s Day, 30 March, 10am – 4pm
Celebrate this Mothering Sunday in Roman style. Bring your mum along for a special visit to see the Legio II re-enactors and demonstrations. There’s also the chance to create a special gift for mum during one of the craft activity sessions.
Normal admission fees apply, there’s a small charge for craft activities
For more information please call 01242 890256
Cliveden, Buckinghamshire
Cliveden is set high above the Thames with far-reaching views, glorious gardens and majestic woodlands. Follow in the footsteps of dukes, earls and royalty as you explore a series of gardens, each with their own special charm. Wrap up warm and enjoy a family walk along the tree-lined avenues and picturesque riverside or have an adventure in the Cliveden Maze. Cliveden’s woodlands are a great place to tick off some of the ‘50 Things to do before you’re 11¾’, with bug hunting, den building and bird watching all on offer.
Mother’s Day, 30 March, 11am – 3pm
As well as a spot of mum’s only wine tasting, there’ll be special craft activities running for all the family, with the opportunity to make homemade gifts for mum.
Normal admission fees apply, activity ticket price £2 per child
For more information, please call 01628 605069
Make a weekend of it: Stay on the banks of the Thames in one of the two cottages on the Cliveden estate. Take your pick from the former ferryman’s cottage or the recently redecorated New Cottage, both cottages sleep four.
Dudmaston Estate, Shropshire
Dudmaston is not your usual country house, even though it looks like an ordinary red sandstone building, set in traditional parkland. On Mothering Sunday the galleries will be open showcasing their wonderful modern art collection, which includes works by Ben Nicolson, Henry Moore and Barbara Hepworth.There’s plenty to outdoors too, the Dingle, a magical wood, with winding paths, stunning viewpoints, tumbling brooks and rickety bridges isn’t to be missed while the woodland play area is full of adventurous activities.
Mothering Sunday, 30 March, 11.30am – 5pm
From a self-led trail around the gardens, to tea-time treats, there’s plenty to enjoy this Mothering Sunday at Dudmaston. There’s also the opportunity to make a spring posy for mum.
Normal admission fees apply plus £1 per craft activity
For more information please call 01746 780866
Make a weekend of it: Stay off the beaten track at 1 Sternsmill in a charming nineteenth-century cottage that sleeps four – the perfect location for long walks in the Shropshire countryside with the whole family.
Dyrham Park, South Gloucestershire
Not far from Bath, Dyrham Park is a magnificent seventeenth-century mansion and garden, set in a dramatic deer park. Inside the impressive mansion you can discover how fashion has changed over the ages as well as a rich collection of Dutch art and ceramics. Outdoors there’s the chance to spot the historic herd of fallow deer which roam freely on the land. While the elegant West Garden with its splendid borders, ancient ponds and perry pear orchard, will satisfy green-fingers.
Mother’s Day, 30 March, 12pm – 12.45pm, 1.30pm – 2.15pm
Join Dyrham’s Conservation Assistant on a special mothers-only tour of Dyrham Park house. Discover how women throughout the ages made their mark on Dyrham, passing many of their portraits as you explore the house.
There are two tours available on the day with 15 places available on each tour. Tickets available on the morning of the tour from the visitor centre and are not pre-bookable.
Please note this tour is for mums only.
Normal admission fees apply
For more information please call 01179 372501
Gibside, Tyne & Wear
Gibside is so close to Tyneside, but a million miles from city life. A Georgian landscape garden which is being restored, it’s crammed with stunning views of theDerwent Valley, winding paths, meadows, parkland, historic buildings and ruins as well as refreshing open spaces. A great place for families, there’s an adventure playground, woodland play trail and vibrant discovery centre in the old stable block.
Mum’s weekend, 29 – 30 March, 11am – 3pm
Spend some quality time with Mum and bring her to Gibside for a beautiful springtime walk in the walled garden, explore the Orangery or share a longer ramble through the woods looking for wildlife. Treat her to a tasty cream tea in the potting shed café, listen to enchanting live music in the Chapel and visit Gibside’s resident artists at the stables where you can make her a unique gift to help her remember this special day.
Normal admission fees apply
For more information please call 01207 541820
Glendurgan Garden, Cornwall
Lose yourself in the three valleys of Glendurgan Garden – full of fun, natural beauty and amazing plants. Described by its creators as ‘heaven on earth’ you can wander through the garden down to the beautiful hamlet of Durgan where you can watch birds and boats, skim stones and build sand-castles. Explore the sheltered beach, grab and ice cream or try and find the kids in the beautiful laurel maze.
Mother’s Day posy making, 30 March, 12pm – 4pm
Treat mum on this special day by making a beautiful posy with some lovely colourful spring flowers.
Normal admission fees apply
For more information please call 01326 252020
Ham House and Gardens, Surrey
Ham House, on the banks of the Thames in Richmond, Surrey is an impressive Stuart mansion. It houses an amazing selection of furniture, carvings, tapestries, paintings and antiques, as well as the servants’ kitchen with its original table. Outside, the gardens are a playful mix, formal like the Cherry Garden, or wild like the Wilderness area.
Mother’s Day, 30 March, 10am – 5pm
Treat your mum to a memorable day out at Ham House. With a variety of art activities taking place in the gardens, kids can get stuck in and make a special gift for mum.
Normal admission fees apply
For more information please call 020 8940 1950
Hanbury Hall and Gardens, Worcestershire
There are over 20 acres of lovingly restored eighteenth-century gardens and 400 acres of parkland surrounding Hanbury Hall. Green-fingered mums won’t want to miss the elaborate formal gardens, the fruit garden, orangery and orchard. Meanwhile hide and seek fans will enjoy trying to discover the mushroom house and ice house, which are hidden in the grounds. Inside, a mix of interiors are waiting to be discovered, from the restored Hercules rooms and recreated Gothic corridor, to the re-decorated smoking room and stunning staircase wall-paintings.
Mothering Weekend with Lady Georgina, 29 & 30 March, 1pm – 4.30pm
Go back in time to the year 1890 and meet Sir Harry, Lady Georgina and their family as they celebrate the role of mothers and how they play a significant role in everyone’s lives.
Normal admission fees apply
For more information please call 01527 821214
Make a weekend of it: Stay inside Hanbury Hall in the south wing second floor apartment that sleeps two. It’s full of character and has views over the eighteenth-century gardens below.
Mottisfont, Hampshire
Mottisfont is romantic house and gallery set in beautiful riverside gardens, where you can see ancient trees, bubbling brooks and rolling lawns. Go for a walk amongst the carpets of spring bulbs and explore the stunning walled rose garden. This Mother’s Day visitors can also experience the acclaimed exhibition of the celebrated Royal photographer Patrick Lichfield, featuring over 50 portraits of the royal family from the 1960s onwards.
Making Mother’s Day, 30 March, 10am – 5pm
Mottisfont has always inspired artists and on Mother’s Day there’s the chance to get creative and make a fabulous flower brooch for mum.
Normal admission fees apply
For more information please call 01794 344020
Bluebells at Speke Hall, Liverpool
Speke Hall, Liverpool
Set on the banks of the River Mersey with stunning views across to the Welsh Hills, Speke has everything for a great day out. The Victorian maze, children’s play area, coastal and woodland walks, not to mention the intriguing interior of this amazing Tudor building are well worth a visit. Bring mum and enjoy a wander around Speke’s beautiful spring gardens, followed by a trip to the Stables Tea Room for a delicious slice of cake or afternoon tea to celebrate Mother’s Day. You’ll also find a range of home cooked soups, main meals and puddings at Home Farm Restaurant – the choice is yours.
Mothering Sunday high tea, 30 March, 12pm – 1.30pm & 2pm – 3.30pm
Join the Head Gardener for a walk around the beautiful spring gardens, followed by delicious high tea in the Stable tea room.
Booking essential, please call 0151 427 7231
All tickets £15.
Tyntesfield, North Somerset
Tyntesfield is a beautiful Victorian estate just a stone’s throw away from Bristol. The fairy-tale mansion hosts spiralling turrets, ornate stone carvings and is full of family treasures to discover. Explore the terraced lawns, spacious parkland and beautiful walled kitchen garden.
Mother’s Day, 30 March, 10am – 6pm
With everything from seasonal specials on offer at the Cow Barn Kitchen, spring blooms on display in the formal gardens and soothing musical entertainment, there’s plenty to keep mum happy this Mothering Sunday.
Normal admission fees apply
For more information please call 01275 461 900
Make a weekend of it: Stay at the heart of Tyntesfield in the former Chaplain’s House, built in the 1840s it’s crammed with original features and Victorian touches. Perfect for larger families there’s an interconnecting door between the House and the Lodge next door allowing up to eleven people to stay.
Upton House and Gardens, Warwickshire
Soak up the glamorous atmosphere of the 1930s at Upton House, where country weekend parties are the order of the day. Don’t miss the opulent red and silver art deco bathroom, or the art collection, which includes works by El Greco, Stubbs and Bosch. Outside, the stunning gardens have a sweeping lawn that gives way to a series of terraces and herbaceous borders leading to a kitchen garden, tranquil water garden and spring bulb displays.
1930s beauty parlour, 30 March, 1pm – 4pm
Bring your mum to Upton for a special 1930s beauty and fashion makeover. Treat her to a glass of bubbly and take away a photo of her transformation as a memento.
Normal admission charges apply, activity ticket price £10
For more information please call 01295 670266
Make a weekend of it: Keep things strictly in the jazz-age at 1 Home Farm Drive, with art deco features throughout this spacious cottage is the perfect getaway for a vintage loving mum and her family, sleeps five.
Winkworth Arboretum, Surrey
The National Trust’s only arboretum, Winkworth is a collection of more than 1,000 different trees and plants set within the glorious Surrey countryside. Created by Dr Wilfrid Fox in the early twentieth-century, the extraordinary planting combinations will inspire you with their texture, colour and fragrance. In spring the brilliant carpets of old English bluebells compete for attention with the impressive displays of azaleas and magnolias. It’s the ideal place for a family day out and a picnic with mum.
Mother’s Day ukulele concert, 30 March, 2pm – 4pm
Stroll around the magnolias, bluebells and azaleas this Mother’s day at this hillside arboretum. After a peaceful walk in the glade treat mum to something a little different with a home-made cream tea and entertainment from the ever popular Surrey Hills Ukulele Big Band.
Normal admission fees apply
Booking essential, concert tickets £5
For more information, please call 01483 208936
