Spring days out in Wiltshire: Easter trails, timeless treasures & family adventures

Blossom drifts across ancient landscapes, steam engines roar back to life and safari stories unfold — spring invites families to slow down and savour adventure across Wiltshire and beyond.

Spring arrives softly but surely… in blossom-frothed branches, lighter mornings and the unmistakable sight of lambs and ducklings finding their feet. As winter finally fades, this beautiful corner of the world calls us outdoors once more.

Now is the perfect time to explore at a gentler pace — whether that means egg hunts in historic gardens, steam trains puffing into action or hands-on encounters with animals great and small. Here’s our pick of the best family-friendly activities this season.

Steam & Stories at Crofton Beam Engines

Step back in time at Crofton Beam Engines in Marlborough. Over the Easter weekend, the world’s oldest working beam engines will be in steam, pumping water as they have for over 200 years.

There’s a fun Easter egg trail, traditional duck races along the leat and a craft area where you’ll find materials for little ones to decorate bonnets, eggs and more. Friendly volunteers will be on hand to share fascinating stories, while the Smithy Tea Room offers refreshments and the scenic grounds are perfect for picnics and canal walks.

For more information, visit croftonbeamengines.org

Spring Trails at Avebury & Stourhead

Explore the ancient wonders of Avebury, where the National Trust treasure’s classic gardens and vast prehistoric surroundings are perfect for spring family walks and Easter trail from 27th March to 12th April.

Children can complete activities full of springtime joy dotted around the garden and collect a chocolate prize. And head south to the stunning Stourhead estate near Mere, where the family Easter trail runs between 21st March and 19th April.

For more information, visit nationaltrust.org.uk

Arts & Crafts Charm at Kelmscott Manor

William Morris’s much-loved retreat Kelmscott Manor reopens for the season, looking particularly lush.

Set beside the Thames and surrounded by orchards and meadows, it’s a peaceful place for older children to stretch their legs and soak up a little Arts & Crafts magic. Expect thoughtful family trails, beautiful gardens coming into bloom and a step back into a slower, storybook England.

For more information, visit kelmscottmanor.org.uk

Wildlife Wonders at Nature Discovery Centre

Join the Nature Discovery Centre in Thatcham for fresh air and wildlife discoveries as you help mother fox find her missing cubs and discover the other baby animals in a fun family trail for Easter, 7th-9th April

Book your place at bbowt.org.uk/events

Timeless Treasures at Lacock Abbey

Lacock near Chippenham is always a charming day out.

Enjoy the picturesque village and Abbey gardens with family-friendly Easter adventures and trails around the grounds, where little ones can solve activities and claim a chocolate egg.

For more information, visit nationaltrust.org.uk

Music in Bloom at Newbury Spring Festival

Newbury Spring Festival brings two weeks of world-class music to the town and its surrounding villages, with more than 45 events across 20 local venues, featuring leading international artists alongside outstanding emerging talent.

The events span many different genres including jazz, musical theatre, cabaret, world music, folk music, choral music, ballet, chamber music, solo recitals, brass bands and gospel choirs.

Find out what’s on at newburyspringfestival.org.uk

Play & Produce at Cobbs Farm Shop

Foodies’ fave Cobbs Farm Shop in Hungerford hosts lovely Mother’s Day treats and has a great Play Barn and outdoor spaces, perfect for spring family days out with imaginative play, sandpits and the seasonal café open for snacks and lunches.

Spring craft sessions and kids’ play barn activities have run in recent years, and the farm shop is brimming with seasonal goodies – ideal for a visit with little ones over the holidays.

For more information, visit cobbsfarmshops.co.uk.

Rare Breeds & Alpaca Walks at Cholderton Rare Breeds Farm

Cholderton Rare Breeds Farm towards Salisbury is the perfect day out for families. Get up close with friendly rare-breed animals, book an alpaca walk, enjoy hands-on encounters and let the kids run wild in the outdoor play areas.

Tuck into delicious food and drink from the on-site café, plenty of picnic spots and exciting seasonal fun.

For more information, visit choldertonrarebreedsfarm.com

Safari Adventures at Longleat Safari Park

A scenic drive away, Longleat Safari Park is in full spring spirit with its Once Upon an Easter programme running from 28th March to 19th April.

Follow an eggs-traordinary story trail inspired by beloved tales, where classic characters and imaginative scenes come to life across the estate, leading to a chocolate treat at the end – all included with your day ticket.

Alongside seasonal storytelling and craft, there’s plenty to discover: meet curious wildlife from lions and tigers to koalas, try the UK’s longest hedge maze, enjoy the Jungle Cruise, or explore historic Longleat House.

Longleat is also celebrating the 60th anniversary of its safari park, with an anniversary garden party weekend on 11th & 12th April.

For more information, visit longleat.co.uk.

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