Half-term fun with Pokemon trail, Stranger Folk app experience, storytelling and apple-themed crafts on Hardwick Estate (aff)
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Family fun and tradition are blended with an Elizabethan twist in the autumn programme of activities at the Hardwick Estate.
Throughout October visitors of all ages can experience the seasonal themes of Hallowtide through trails and harvest celebrations and round off the month with a variety of half-term activities.
The Apple Jack Story Trail invites visitors to enjoy a family adventure in Hardwick’s Fruiting Orchard as they follow Old Mal’s enchanting tale of Apple Jack.
A new Pokémon Art Trail offers explorers the chance to hunt for Pokémon art signs throughout the historic gardens, the Old Hall and the Stableyard area.
Both trails are open at the National Trust managed estate until the end of October.
Returning for a second year is the Stranger Folk Mobile App Experience, giving visitors the opportunity to take part in a digital adventure and track down the ‘Stranger Folk.’ This Halloween team adventure invites groups of up to six to close the crack between ours and the spirit world. Suitable for children over the age of 7, it is designed for families to work together using one mobile phone to explore strange goings-on.
From October 17 to 31, visitors to the Stableyard can have a go at witches’ hat hoopla, broomstick barefoot walk, and traditional apple games including apple plum tag.
Apple Day themed festivities also take place during half term with live demonstrations by the Hardwick Makers of apple-themed crafts. There will also be the chance to have a go at apple printing and make willow wreaths or paper decorations.
After-hours Hallowtide Storytelling will be delivered by Storyfolk in Hardwick Hall’s High Great Chamber on October 30. These stories of myths and legends are inspired by Hardwick’s vast 16th collections. While suitable for older children, the dark tales include mentions of violence and death.
Elle Maxwell-Wood, senior visitor experience oficer at Hardwick, said: “"We are looking forward to an autumn that offers the best of both worlds. By blending Hardwick's Elizabethan history with the cutting-edge tech of both the Stranger Folk app and the Pokémon Art Trail, we’ve created an experience where history comes alive.
“Whether families choose to take part in a digital adventure or enjoy traditional crafts or Elizabethan themed activities, there is something for all ages to experience together."
For more details, check out: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/hardwick