Get ready for a baa-rilliant winter adventure at Winkworth Arboretum this festive season. The National Trust has teamed up with Wild In Art, to bring to life Aardman’s mischievous Shaun the Sheep™ with a Christmas trail around the Arboretum. Come and find twelve super-sized Shaun sculptures, each uniquely designed and decorated by talented artists. With fun games, children’s carousel, engaging activities and delicious winter treats from the tearoom, a visit to Winkworth Arboretum this Christmas will be an unforgettable day out for all ages.
A woolly winter walk at Winkworth
A walk at Winkworth is always a pleasure with its winding pathways and breathtaking views. Over the Christmas period it becomes the perfect place to get together with friends and family, whether it’s a frosty morning stroll or getting the kids out to burn off some pent-up festive energy. There’s nothing like the crunch of ice or squelch of mud under foot, the cool fresh breeze against the cheeks and the sight of morning mist rising above the lake from the boathouse. This year they’ve added an extra bit of fun thanks to the boisterous and cheeky Shaun the Sheep™, so grab your coats and wellies and come outside. Visit from Saturday 23rd November to Sunday 19th January.
A ewe-nique art adventure for all
Pick up a trail map from the kiosk and as you wonder through the winding pathways find twelve Shaun the Sheep™ sculptures adding a colourful extra dimension to the arboretum’s best features and views.
Each super-sized sculpture, standing at 160cm tall, has been individually designed by artists from across the region and beyond and continues Wild in Art’s mission to take art out of the gallery and make it accessible for more people.
Fun for the flock
For younger members of the family, there’ll be fun activities to try out along the way. Have a go at sheep racing at Mossy Bottom Farm or test your hand-eye co-ordination on the sheep-shaped wire buzzer game.
Carousel and coffee
Shepherd your flock over to the Arbour tea room where you’ll find warm drinks and treats, plus our crêpe concession, The Coffee Jet, selling sweet and savoury crêpes alongside barista-made organic coffees and teas. (Due to intermittent internet connectivity, they recommend bringing cash).
Whilst you’re enjoying your treats, younger lambs (under-12s only) can enjoy a carousel ride. Tickets are £3 per person per ride, and can be purchased from the kiosk.
The carousel will operate from 10.30am to 3.30pm Friday to Sunday from Saturday 23rd November until Sunday 5th Jan uaryand every day of the school holidays from Friday 20th December to Monday 6th January.
Please be aware the carousel will not operate in adverse weather conditions.
Find out more here.