Oh, how we love a family trail. It can be hit and miss but when it’s simple, well organised in a gorgeous venue, we’re all in. Even better when it’s a Christmas trail, great to put you in a festive mood.

After a last-minute decision we headed off to National Trust's Chartwell House in Westerham (Kent), Sir Winston Churchill’s family home. We visited the house last year but this time, it was all happening outside, in the gorgeous grounds, and that was probably better for our little one. The Christmas trail was based on ‘The Twelve Days of Christmas’.

We’ve done some trails in the past but this one was simple, clearly signed with easy tasks (mainly counting!) and perfect for young children, which means perfect for parents!

From counting top hats to drums, spotting the partridges in the tree and the last one, finding three French hens covered in French newspaper, we all got involved.

We discovered along the way the Marycot, a cute brick house that Churchill himself had built for his daughters Mary and Sarah. All the kids stopping by dived into pretend-play, making food, serving dishes on the main table, sweeping the dust away (even sweeping the windows)… I wish that could inspire my boy to give a hand at home!

The Twelve Days of Christmas trail is still on until 3rd January at this National Trust venue; I would highly recommend getting some fresh air, a bit of fun in such a historical setting.

What's on at Chartwell House

Marion & You Photography is a lifestyle family photographer in South East London specialising in family, newborn, baby and maternity photography. 

[Marion specialises in London family photography, Beckenham family photography, Bromley family photography, Dulwich family photography, Forrest Hill family photography, Herne Hill family photography, Greenwich family photography, Kent family photography as well as areas in and around London.]