Across the region, sites are gearing up for a lively week of family-friendly entertainment. Young adventurers can get stuck into hands‑on outdoor experiences, enjoy seasonal trails, try creative activities, and explore the countryside in new and exciting ways.
5. Hardwick Hall
Children are invited to race between the May activity stations and explore traditional Elizabethan May celebrations alongside nature‑inspired fun at Hardwick. They can decorate the May Queen’s crown, piece together a jumbled May masterpiece, and take centre stage in a royal spectacle show. It’s a lively and creative way for families to celebrate spring together. Visitors can also take part in additional activities throughout the week, with exciting markets, crafty afternoons, and the specialist craft days to make the day extra memorable. Enjoy Elizabethan May Day activities between 23- 31 May with events including a specialist craft day with the Stonemasons on 27 May and Women Who Make Market on 30 May. All events are free, standard admission applies. Photo: Brian Eyre
6. Ilam Park and Dovedale
Ilam Park and the White Peak is a great place for families and dog walkers. There are plenty of gentle riverside walks, as well as opportunities for picnics, adventures and exploring further into interesting landscapes. Nature Journalling is taking place at Ilam Park and Dovedale from 23 – 31 May 10.30am – 2.30pm. Sketch the stunning views, colour in wildflowers, and collect found treasures. The National Trust team provide everything needed, visitors just bring their imagination! For just £3 per person, collect one of the beautifully designed Nature Journals and embark on an adventure. There’s no need to book for this activity. A Family Guided Walk: Geology, Archaeology and Landscape takes place on 28 May 10am - 2.30pm and Meet the Moths on 29 May at 10.30am - 2.30pm. Photo: Photo © Paul Harrop (cc-by-sa/2.0)
7. Longshaw Estate
Longshaw Estate provides a stunning backdrop for an adventure in the great outdoors. There are plenty of options for walks where visitors can enjoy a big view from Duke's Seat or a woodland walk through Padley Gorge. Nature Journalling will take place from 23 – 31 May, 9:30am – 3:30pm. Visitors can explore, be creative and get closer to nature while making their own beautiful nature journal to keep. All that’s needed is imagination and love of nature – the National Trust team provide the rest. There are four Stations to find around the estate including in the Kitchen Garden and down as far as the pond. These are self-led activities, so visitors can enjoy the activities at their own pace. There’s no need to book for this activity, visitors can just go to the Welcome Building to collect one of the National Trust’s beautifully designed Nature Journals for £3 per person and embark on an adventure. A Morning Wildlife Walk will take place on 29 May, 9.30am – 12pm. Photo: ©National Trust Images/Joe Cornish
8. Staunton Harold
A Flower Fairy Trail is at Staunton Harold from Saturday 23 – Sunday 31 May. It's the season of blossom, and Staunton Harold is in bloom. Visitors can have fun spotting a group of flower fairies that are hiding in the woodland whilst enjoying the magic of the season and admiring the vibrant colours of spring. · Photo: google