February Half Term: Chinese New Year Trail & Family Crafts

Celebrate Chinese New Year This February Half Term

Step into a colourful celebration of Chinese New Year this February half term (14–22 February) with a fun, family-friendly programme designed for children of all ages. We’re open daily from 10.30am–3.30pm, with a free Chinese New Year trail running throughout the House, alongside creative crafts and a special drop-in workshop.

Chinese New Year Zodiac Trail

Can you spot all twelve Chinese zodiac animals hidden around the House? As families explore our historic interiors, children will search for each animal, learning about their meanings and stories along the way. This gentle, engaging trail encourages observation, curiosity, and plenty of excitement as young explorers tick off each zodiac sign they find.

Craft Activities

Get hands-on with a range of creative activities inspired by Chinese culture and New Year traditions:

• Chinese Calligraphy – Learn how to write the character for ‘horse’ in traditional Chinese script, following each brushstroke step by step.
• Fortune Cookies – Craft your own paper fortune cookie to gift to a friend or loved one. Use our pre-written fortunes or write your own special message.
• Colouring-In Station – A relaxed space for younger children to enjoy themed colouring and creativity.
• Craft activities are available throughout the day and are perfect for dipping in and out of at your own pace.

Pocket Hug Workshop (Drop-In)

On 18 February, 11.00am–3.00pm, join our Pocket Hug Workshop. Drop in at any time to craft a small keepsake pocket hug—something thoughtful and handmade to gift to someone special.

A Brilliant Value Day Out for Families

Best of all, all activities are free of charge and included in admission, and kids go free with a paying adult. It’s a joyful, creative, and affordable way to enjoy half term together.

We’re fully set up for families, with:

• Baby-changing facilities
• A café for snacks and refreshments
• Lift access for pushchairs
• Dress-up and interactive play in our museum
• Picnic tables and a lawn outside the visitor centre for outdoor play

Visiting With Little Legs?

Don’t fancy a big walk with little ones? We understand that the journey through the National Trust garden can feel daunting (even with snacks, pit stops, and a bit of bribery!).

If you pre-book your admission tickets, you can arrange parking close to the House via a separate entrance to Stowe—ta-da, happy faces all round.

Alternatively, make a full day of it and enjoy the fresh air, letting the kids run off some steam with a big family adventure at Stowe.