On the way to our latest mini break in Wales (see where we stayed here) we stopped off at Croft Castle & Parkland in Herefordshire to stretch our legs and get some fresh air. Croft Castle is nestled in 1500 acres of beautiful woodland, farm and parkland, so the perfect place for children to explore nature at its best. You can either pay for entrance to both the castle and parkland or just the parkland, which is what we opted for. As it was January when we visited the gardens weren't in their prime, with a lack of colour and variety, yet they were still beautiful.
The walled gardens are filled with different areas to explore, including historic orchards, vineyard and even a bug hotel. The 1908 glasshouse is a chance to take in a slice of history, which Isabella particularly enjoyed wandering around. After taking a stroll around the gardens and having a play in the children's castle play area we headed up the hill into the woodland area.
The walk up was extremely muddy, as you pass through farmland and a field of sheep, but the views at the top are worth it. In one area of the woodland they have set up an outdoor play area for children, much inspired by learning through play. As you enter there is a wooden stage with benches, so Isabella gave us a beautiful rendition of Frozen 'Let it Go'. It's the perfect place for children to put on an impromptu performance, dancing around under the trees. If you walk a bit further you are greeted by a path that leads back down the hill through various rope swings, balancing logs and musical instruments made from nature. Despite it being a cold day Isabella absolutely loved playing in this area; it's the kind of place I can't wait until Poppy can get involved too, so they can play together.
Isabella swung on rope swings, discovered fairy doors, played with drums made from logs, balanced across planks of wood, played noughts and crosses and had a snack sitting in the middle of a tree. As Croft Castle & Parkland aren't open everyday in the winter months (mostly just weekends) we pretty much had the whole play area to ourselves, which was an added bonus!
If you're looking for a family day out in Herefordshire, then I'd highly recommend giving Croft Castle & Parklands a visit, no matter what time of year. Though, it is worth checking their opening times prior to visiting because they aren't open everyday all year round. There are family friendly facilities, a tearoom with a good range of meals (sandwiches, soup, jacket potatoes etc.), cakes and drinks, as well as plenty to keep children entertained.
Which is your favourite National Trust location?
Which is your favourite National Trust location?
Feel free to leave a comment - I love reading every single one :)
Helen x
I'm linking this post up with Blogger Club UK.
This sounds and looks like a beautiful parkland. I've never heard of it but would definitely like to visit one day. Your pictures are stunning too. It must have been great having the play area to yourselves! Thanks for sharing! x
ReplyDeleteVictoria | www.spokenreveries.co.uk
Herefordshire is a fantastic place for a day out. I love all the old stone buildings like this and the lush greenery. Thinking of camping during summer so we might visit that castle! #bloggersclubuk
ReplyDeleteWhat a cool place. I would love to visit there. #BloggerClubUK
ReplyDeleteLooks like a lovely place for a mini adventure with lots of lovely bits to explore. I do have a soft spot for exploring anywhere with a greenhouse! x
ReplyDeleteIt looks like a great place to explore. It looks like Isabella had fun exploring and running around outdoors x
ReplyDeleteOh wow, what an amazing place to explore. My daughter would definitely love it there. Especially with the little stage. She'd totally be up there singing 'Let It Go' as well haha. Probably a lot more high pitched and out of tune than Isabella! (She hasn't inherited a good singing voice, despite her efforts). It looks so beautiful there even in Winter and it's lovely there is still so much to do. The fairy doors and wooden musical instruments are such a lovely added touch!
ReplyDeleteOh what beautiful photos you captured. I’ve not heard of this site. Will have to visit as it looks lovely. We like dyffryn gardens in Wales
ReplyDeleteLooks like a fantastic day out. I love your matching coats too! x
ReplyDeleteWhat a beautiful place to explore! My boys would love it.
ReplyDeleteI'd never heard of Croft Castle but it looks and sounds lovely. The pictures of part of the house you've featured would remind you of Downton Abbey!
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