Island Life Magazine Ltd August/September 2016 | Page 80

Country life Picture by Arnhel de Serra Summer with the National Trust By Joanna Cross, Marketing and Communications, National Trust Do you remember the feeling of rolling down a really big hill? For those ten seconds there was nothing else in the world but the smell of the grass and the sun on your face, and the incredible thrill of tumbling, being on the edge of out-of-control. Such simple pleasures are among the National Trust’s suggestions for 50 things to do before you’re 11¾ - the campaign to get kids outdoors and in touch with the natural world around them. They include intrepid activities like climbing a tree, damming a stream and camping in the wild, as well as more intimate activities such as mud pie-making, hunting for bugs, and the joy of a producing a piercing whistle from a grass trumpet. There are 50 things scrapbooks and activities at National Trust places, alongside enough trails and play activities, crafts and garden games to give the 80 whole family a summer adventure. The countryside and parkland looked after by the National Trust is perfect for summer exploring and picnicking. The beautiful gardens are at their colourful best in summer, filled with paths and lawns to run along, walled gardens to hide in, and peaceful shady spots where you can close your eyes and soak up summer scents and the dreamy buzz of insects. National Trust members visit for free, but there is sometimes a separate charge for specific events and activities. All profits go to the care and upkeep of the special places we look after for you and future generations to enjoy. All details and other ideas for family days out can be found on the National Trust website: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/days-out/ regionlondonsoutheast/london-and-the-south-east. www.visitilife.com Aug/Sep 2016_MASTER .indd 80 16/08/2016 15:21