Autumn Adventures

from Sussex Sept/Oct 2020 Primary Times

Fun Days Out with the Family

Wakehurst

Have a day out like no other at Wakehurst, Kew’s wild botanic garden. With over 500 acres to explore, children can get lost in the labyrinth, spot the wildlife in the valleys and uncover the mysteries of the plant kingdom, with a host of measures in place to support social distancing. Beautiful whatever the season, explore the wilder corners of the landscape to discover some of the quietest, most beautiful spots. Autumn in the garden is a delight for all the senses as the leaves turn to vibrant reds, oranges and yellows. Scattered across Wakehurst are secret spots giving you sweeping vistas of the landscape. Favourites include a panoramic view across the Loder Valley and Westwood Lake for the autumn reflections on a still day. Home to the world-famous Millennium Seed Bank, step inside to explore one of the most biodiverse places on Earth. Scramble over the adventurous log trail, Tree Trunk Trek or take a moment to enjoy a quiet moment from the gardens. Wakehurst is open daily from 10am to those who can visit safely. During this time all visitors, including members, will need a prebooked ticket.

Stroll through the deep dark wood this autumn 17 October – 1 November 2020

Pre-booking essential. kew.org/wakehurst From 17 October – 1 November, you’ll be able to join in Gruffalo Adventures at Wakehurst. There’s lots of Gruffalo family fun. Embark on the Gruffalo trail, go on an adventurous Gruffalo crumble hunt and join a wild cooking workshop in Wakehurst’s deep, dark wood. Please visit the website to book your visit www.kew.org/wakehurst

Explore England’s Castles this Autumn

For the first time, I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here, will be filmed in the UK at a ruined castle location. For those who prefer their castle visits without the threat of a Bushtucker Trial, we’ve rounded up some local alternatives in England to visit this autumn. Hever Castle in Kent has a history spanning more than 700 years and was the childhood home of Henry VIII’s second wife, Anne Boleyn. Initially a moated defensive castle dating back to 1270, this romantic setting is packed full of Tudor portraits and tapestries, and features fine views out over Hever Lake. Set within the 125 acres of grounds is a 100-year-old Yew Maze. See the website for details of family attractions and special events. Pre-booking to explore Hever Castle and its grounds is essential at www.hevercastle.co.uk

The Gruffalo adventures

Further afield, just to the west of London lies Windsor Castle, the

world’s oldest and largest inhabited castle, having been a royal residence for around 950 years. At Arundel Castle in West Sussex, many of the original features such as the Norman Keep, medieval Gatehouse and Barbican survive. The whole family can have fun learning about castle sieges with interactive exhibits, games and costumes. Photo credit: Hever Castle & Gardens

Blackberry Farm

Blackberry Farm Park is set within 18 acres of farm land in Whitesmith, Lewes. There is plenty to keep children of all ages entertained all day and in all weathers. You can hand feed the friendly farm animals, play in the fantastic outdoor play area, ride on the Go-Karts, zip down on the Zip Wire or take a ride on the Tractor Trailer. They’re all included in your admission price! Blackberry Farm has recently re-opened and implemented new measures to ensure all customers and team members are safe in these unusual times. The friendly team members will be cleaning the play equipment throughout the day to ensure that everyone remains safe. Blackberry Farm has been awarded the Visit England – Good to Go Award for all their preparations. Please visit their website at www.blackberryfarm.co.uk for all the latest information concerning offers, events and parties.

Family Fun at Blackberry Farm Park whatever the weather We have plenty to keep children of all ages entertained all day and all weathers. You can hand feed our friendly farm animals, play in our fantastic outdoor play area, ride on the Go-Karts, Zip down on our Zip Wire or take a ride on our famous Tractor Ride All included in your admission price!!