We are big fans of days out at National Trust properties and one of our favourites is Mottisfont, in Romsey. We were invited last weekend to their exciting Christmas Carol Family Trail. Having experienced the Charlie and Lola trail back in the summer, we were keen to see what they had in store for us. Baby couldn’t wait to get going!
Mottisfont is a stunning house and Baby loves the river running through the grounds. Armed with her special kid’s map, we set off.
It wasn’t long before we found the first checkpoint.
We headed up to the stable block to admire the stunning Christmas tree and try to count out 12 pennies in Scrooge’s counting house.
After watching a little Punch and Judy, and trying to get Baby to dress up in Victorian costume for a photograph in the old fashioned photobooth, Baby did some colouring and produced a bright bird in a birdcage. We were meant to hang it on the tree, but she was quite attached to it, so we brought it home.
It was then time to stop for lunch in the gorgeous cafe. Yum, yum.
Off again to make some chains to weigh down the ghost of Jacob Marley, after he appeared to tell Scrooge to change his ways.
Next stop was the house and we followed the trail through Scrooge’s bedroom (where the ghost of Christmas past appeared).
Through the dance floor..
and into the modest kitchen of Bob Cratchit,
before venturing to Scrooge’s dining room in time for the Christmas celebrations.
There was also a wonderful exhibition of Christmas themed paintings, with a handy little step allowing the children to see.
We had a wonderful time at the Christmas Carol Family Trail and would highly recommend it if you’re looking for some family fun before Christmas.
Comments 27
Blickling Hall is our nearest
Moseley Old Hall is my local National Trust property! We went there on a school trip when I was younger and I think it’s beautiful!
The Georgian House
This looks so great – your pictures are stunning. We’re planning on going to Mottisfont tomorrow. I’m very excited now! X
Felbrigg Hall in Norfolk.
Maister House is the closet to us. It is the smallest National Trust property – a Georgian Townhouse
Speke Hall, but we often go to Tatton Park too.
Tynetsfield nesr Bristol
Ahh, this looks gorgeous! What a set of stunning photos. Got to love National Trust for providing festive fun for the whole family. Love it!
The Vyne Hampshire
Ickworth House is our closest 🙂
Trerice Manor is our nearest
We have not been to Mottisfont but it looks beautiful. Added to my to do list for next year
Nostell Priory is my local National Trust Property
Saltram House and Gardens is our local and its lovely there
My local one is Tradeagar House 🙂
I love taking my girls to National Trust Properties. There’s always a warm welcome. We especially love the cakes! Loved reading about your day too.
My local house is Monk’s House in Rodmell, Lewes. I love taking my girls to National Trust Properties. There’s always a warm welcome. We especially love the cakes! Loved reading about your day too.
Morden Hall Park
Hi we have two nearby Eastbury Manor House and Rainham Hall so thanks for the opportunity!
Eyam Hall and Craft Centre
My nearest is Nostell Priory.
Colby Lodge. It’s a beautiful woodland gardens, and my Grandad’s ashes are sprinkled there, in the woods xx
We have moved an I am not actually sure, but we love Wimpole hall which is very close to where my parents live
The Red House in Bexleyheath
Tredegar House, Newport
This looks like a great trail. Mottsfont looks a lovely place to visit too – not one that’s near us, but maybe in future we’ll be in that direction.