Family fun at Buckland Abbey, Garden and Estate this half-term

Join Buckland Abbey, Garden and Estate for a week of half-term fun from 15 to 23 February, when the property is putting on a week of bird feeding and craft activities for the whole family.

On Saturday 15 February, the Abbey will celebrate the day that Sir Francis Drake reached Lima in Peru by giving visitors the opportunity get crafty with potato printing and designing Ojo De Dios (Eye of God) weaving sticks.

Visitor Experience Assistant Richard Burrow says: “It’s nice to remember some of Drake’s achievements in a fun and informal way like this. He did and saw so many amazing things on his journeys in the New World.”

As part of the National Trust’s aim to get children outdoors and closer to nature, there will be activities inspired by the Trust’s ’50 things to do before you’re 11¾’ campaign. Families can create their own bird feeders and bug hotels to encourage wildlife to visit their gardens. As snow's not guaranteed for half term, visitors might not be able to build snowmen but they can create their own ice lanterns and snowflakes instead.

Buckland regular, Claire Packer, will be back on Wednesday 19 February to run her popular drop-in felt workshop for families. Everyone is welcome as, with Claire’s guidance, even amateurs can make something decorative for their home (normal admission plus £3 per person).

Also on Wednesday 19 February, the Abbey’s popular ‘In Depth Tours’ start once again. Led by one of property’s knowledgeable volunteers, visitors will have the opportunity to learn even more about the Abbey and its history.

Normal admission charges apply to all events unless otherwise stated. Please see the website www.nationaltrust.org.uk/buckland, Facebook page www.facebook.com/BuckAbbey or ring 01822 853607 for more details.