Review: Charlecote Park and it's Tudor Games Trail (Summer 2022)
Walking trails are becoming increasing popular amongst people of all ages, especially families who want to get out into the fresh air and explore what their local area, or sometimes further afield, has to offer.
Charlecote Park is a grand 16th-century country house in Warwickshire, surrounded by a deer park, meadows and walking trails amongst the wildlife. The gardens are made of three areas, the Parterre, Woodland Garden and Green Court. There is a bookshop, café and restaurant and the house is open on weekend and bank holiday mornings between 10.30 and 12.45. There is a variety of different activities with lots for families to see and do.
Last weekend, Toddle About visited Charlecote Park and tried out their Tudor Play trail as well as explored the gardens…
We arrived at the visitor centre where we were explained to what was on offer, where everything was and what the trail entailed and my son was presented with a map, cards, and a pencil to complete the Tudor games trail.
Firstly, we went to explore and embarked on a walk around the West Park and Deer Sanctuary. – This area was beautifully kept with pathways clearly defining the walkway yet keeping the area natural for its’ wildlife residents. The walk was not a long walk, so perfect for families and little legs, but did take us an hour as my son was keen to explore, spot wildlife (of which there was lots!) and climb on the fallen tree trunks and see what he could spot next. – Fortunately, the tree trunks doubled up as benches for us sit on and enjoy the scenery whilst he did this! He was delighted to also spot a deer!
On our way to the West Park, we also saw the outbuildings, which we were also able to explore, which include the Laundry, Brewhouse, three Carriage Houses, the Scullery and Victorian Kitchen. This inspired lots of questions, but fortunately there were lots of signs showing what everything was and giving the important facts.
We then took part in the Tudor Play Trail, which took us across the grounds and showed us some games that the Tudors had once played and of course allowed us to have a go at too! The trail was simple and well thought out and wonderfully in keeping with Charlecote Park’s Tudor heritage. We got to play games with dice, cards, and a game of skittles, which we did not realise was once reserved for royalty! The trail is on now until 5 September.
The trail ended in the front park where there was more to see and do and my son was fascinated by the sun dial and how it worked. This area had an array of beautiful flowers and greenery, and many families were sat in the sunshine enjoying the beautiful surroundings.
I would say that Charlecote Park has something for everyone, from families who want to have a picnic in the great outdoors to people who want to learn about the rich history of these beautiful surroundings. There is a wide variety places to eat and drink, including the Orangery Restaurant and a café, and of course somewhere to get a locally made ice cream, but there are also plenty of places to sit and enjoy a picnic too!
Charlecote Park is National Trust property and admission fees for the house and gardens apply. The house is open from 10.45am until 12.45pm on weekends and bank holidays. The grounds are open from 9.00am until 5.00pm with last entry at 4.00pm. For further details and to book, visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/charlecote-park