February Half Term Activities in the Chilterns

Days are getting longer and lighter and with half term around the corner it’s a fantastic time to get out and explore all that the Chilterns has to offer.

Family Favourites

Bekonscot Model Village re-opens on 11 Feb after winter maintenance. With over 90 years of history, a huge model railway, 1.5 acres of well-kept gardens and finely detailed model buildings. Stuck in a 1930s time warp, see England how it used to be and discover a wonderful little world tucked away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. There is a fantastic play area and café too.

Odds Farm Park has something for everyone and this half term all eyes will be on the new-born lambs as they take their very first steps at Little Hooves Lamb Nursery! Running from 11th – 19th February, be sure to keep a close watch on the ewes for signs of labour during your visit, as you may even be lucky enough to see a lamb being born. Guests can learn all about the lambing process with special talks from our experienced farmers, plus plenty of hands-on crafts and acres of outdoor adventures.

National Trust Adventures

Hughenden Manor. This stunning property was once the country home of the Victorian statesman Benjamin Disraeli. Visitors are invited to spot 12 winter wonders in the gardens and make an easy birdfeeder.

Cliveden is one of the National Trust’s most popular properties. With vast grounds stretching down to The Thames, a maze, a great children play area and stunning café there is plenty to keep everyone entertained. Over half term younger visitors are invited to explore and discover five spring flowers.

Greys Court in Henley-on-Thames is set in stunning countryside. Younger visitors can join the Story Hunters Children’s Trail from 11th Feb to 5^th March which includes a trail sheet and prize.

Waddesdon Manor. This French Renaissance-style château was built by Baron Ferdinand de Rothschild in 1874 to house his collection of fine art. The grounds are opening up for half-term with some exciting new additions to the woodland playground, including a new zip wire, swing and board-rider.

Woodland walks

If you just fancy getting out into the great outdoors to enjoy snowdrop spotting then half term is the perfect time. Here are some of our favourite places for a spring walk with a difference.

Wendover Woods. With over 800 acres of woodland on the edge of the Chiltern escarpment, Wendover Woods is perfect for families with well-maintained paths for walking and cycling. There is a Go Ape course for those adventurers who wish to swing amongst the trees. A creative woodland play area is situated near the fantastic café to keep all youngsters happy.

Burnham Beeches encompasses 540 acres of ancient woodland and wildlife habitats.  There is a large open green space perfect for ball games and the Beeches Café is very popular with walkers and cyclists. There is plenty to explore with two lakes, a host of paths through varied woodland and a raised boardwalk through the special conservation area. 

Black Park boasts over 500 acres of woodland, heathland, a huge lake and open space. With family friendly attractions, such as the adventure playground and miles of beautiful woodland tracks and trails, the park offers something for everyone to enjoy. There is also a Go Ape course, Nets Kingdom and Segway tours available here.

Indoor Activities

The Discover Bucks Museum in Aylesbury is running some exciting events over half term. Discover how your amazing brain works with a host of family fun activities such as taking part in brain baffling optical illusions and finding out how different brains work through interactive experiences.

The Roald Dahl Museum and Story Centre have Matilda themed half term activities where children can make a mini Miss Trunchbull, or use junk modelling materials to make Matilda-style tricks. There’s also a Matilda drama workshop, guided tours, games, and Matilda storytelling throughout the week.