Last Christmas James’s Mum bought us annual family membership to The National Trust. This was categorically once of the best presents we have ever received. So much so in fact that we have asked for exactly the same gift this year.

I used to have a preconceived notion that a day out at a National Trust location involved a tour around a historical property of some kind and was completely unsuitable for babies and toddlers.

Of course you can choose to visit all sorts of breathtakingly beautiful stately homes but for me it is the stunning gardens and general facilities that really work as a day out for James, Mabel and I.

Before we moved we would visit either Packwood House or Baddesley Clinton at least once a month or so. The farmhouse style cafes are perfect for brunch and Mabel loved being able to run around in such open space. Packwood House in particularly has the most charming walled kitchen garden – Mabel was very taken with the Teddy Bear’s picnic area and was keen to learn about the various varieties of home grown vegetables and herbs. So was I to be honest – I’m not in any way green fingered but I’m hoping to invest some time in our very own veggie patch this Spring.

As well as a wide range of plants and exquisite floral displays each National Trust location plays backdrop to all sorts of wildlife and there are various fairs and special events throughout the year all over the country.

We are now very close to Charlecote Park so I’m hoping to book a visit in before Christmas so we can make the most of all of the festive decor within the main Victorian property.

Are you a National Trust member? Any locations you would recommend are worth a visit? We are very guilty of not making the most of our membership when we actually holiday in the UK – but we are hoping to rectify that next year by being more organised….she says.

*The photos in the gallery and header image are of RMF/Little Beanies shoot competition winner Katerina and her gorgeous family enjoying a day out at Baddesley Clinton.