THE nights are drawing in, it’s getting colder and Christmas isn’t far away - so there is no better time to enjoy a festive day out at a National Trust property.

It’s time to get into the festive spirit and, although things will be a little different to normal this year, there is be plenty of ways to celebrate old traditions and make new memories.

From wandering through frosty winter gardens, to peeking through the windows of historic houses in all their festive dress, everyone can enjoy a little Christmas cheer from the outdoors this year.

Visitors can also pop into the Trust's shops for a fantastic range of Christmas gifts, or warm up whilst enjoying delicious festive food and drink in its cafés.

Little explorers can join Peter Rabbit on his outdoor winter adventure trail at four National Trust properties in Wales, including Erddig in Wrexham and Powis Castle.

They will need to lend a hand to some of Beatrix Potter’s well-loved characters such as Squirrel Nutkin, Mr Jeremy Fisher and Jemima Puddle-Duck, solving clues along the way to earn their special trail badge and certificate.

North Wales Chronicle:

Lower Lawn at Chirk Castle

At other properties little ones can meet Father Christmas or follow the Christmas Elf Trail at Chirk Castle.

For those looking for a quiet break from all the Christmas preparations, a winter walk could be just what’s needed. From gentle strolls to bracing hikes, National Trust properties have a fantastic range of routes and paths, where you can enjoy fresh air and the beautiful scenery around you.

After all that, warm yourself with the knowledge that each magical day out supports the National Trust’s work as a charity looking after special places for future generations to enjoy.

Although the Trust is excited to welcome visitors for the festive season, everyone must adhere to the current coronavirus legislation in Wales when they visit.

You can find out more at https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/features/reopening-and-coronavirus-faqs

Peter Rabbit is £2 per trail pack, plus normal admission fee.

Find a festive day out near you:

• Penrhyn Castle

Celebrate the season with a winter walk through the gardens at Penrhyn Castle, taking in the fantastic far-reaching views. Enjoy feeding the birds and write your message of hope for the Christmas tree.

More info, to pre-book, opening times and prices: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/penrhyn-castle

• Erddig

Enjoy the gift of giving by leaving a donation for our local Wrexham Foodbank this Christmas. Come and say a quick, socially distanced hello to Father Christmas who’ll be with us at weekends to say thank you for your donation. Discover a festive forest of contemporary trees in the garden and be inspired by the natural decorations created by our craft volunteers. Little explorers can follow Peter Rabbit and his friends on a self-led trail through the garden.

More info, to pre-book, opening times and prices: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/erddig

• Powis Castle

Have a stroll through the gorgeous gardens at Powis Castle and enjoy some of nature’s winter wows. Finish your day with Christmas treats in the café. Little explorers can follow Peter Rabbit and his friends on a self-led trail through the garden.

More info, to pre-book, opening times and prices: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/powis-castle-and-garden

• Chirk Castle

Enjoy a crisp winter walk on the estate or try the Christmas Elf trail through the garden, before tasting some delicious festive food and drink in the café.

More info, to pre-book, opening times and prices: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/chirk-castle

• Bodnant Garden

Step into the magical world of The Secret Garden, a Sky Original film and take a winter wander around Bodnant, which was a location for the 2020 movie. Look out for robins, spot the special key tree and perhaps find other surprises along the way. Don’t miss our dazzling Winter Garden in its full glory, and warm up with our festive tearoom treats.

More info, to pre-book, opening times and prices: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/bodnant-garden