As trees begin turning shades of orange and red and there seems to be a pumpkin spice about the air wherever you go, what better way to spend an autumnal day out than exploring some of the area’s most beautiful places?
Whether you love the outdoors or want something to do with the family as October Half Term approaches, The National Trust has many locations dotted about the West Midlands that offer a great autumnal visit.
Here we've found just a few of the National Trust sites in the area you could pay a visit to next.
For more information about availability, accessibility and pricing at each location, you can visit the National Trust Website.
Clent Hills
Near Romsley, Worcestershire, B62 0NL
With miles of footpaths boasting stunning panoramic views over the Midlands, Clent Hills is a nature-lover’s dream.
The countryside is free to explore from dawn until dusk, with the nearby Nimmings Wood car park, which is free for National Trust members, open from 9am to 5pm.
Non-members can pay £4.40 to park all day.
There is a family-run cafe where you can grab a cosy hot chocolate or a hearty sandwich before taking in the stunning colours of autumn at the Clent Hills through one of the guided walks on offer.
If you are after more of a thrill this spooky season, you could learn about the legends of the enchanted landscape in the Halloween guided walks, which are running on October 27.
Wightwick Manor and Gardens
Wolverhampton, West Midlands, WV6 8EE (for Sat Nav sue WV6 8BN)
This Victorian manor house has an intriguing history and a fascinating arts and crafts garden you can explore.
As well as the Morris and Co. interior, there is an impressive collection of art to explore throughout the house, with the Malthouse Gallery also being home to the De Morgan Foundation collection of paintings and ceramics
Step outside and the property's garden shares the same beauty as its interior, with a woodland play area and lots of walks on offer.
If you are looking for something to do with the kids this half term, there is the annual Pumpkin Trail running from October 26 until November 3 – spooky costumes encouraged!
Kinver Edge and the Rock Houses
Kinver, near Stourbridge, DY7 6DL
The quirky houses carved into sandstone offer a unique glimpse into what life was like for the families who once lived inside the rock.
On their doorstep is the stunning Kinver Edge, offering sweeping views of neighbouring counties and an imposing Iron Age Hill Fort.
You can enjoy a stroll along the sandstone ridge taking in fascinating geology and beautiful woodlands.
For the first time ever, this Halloween, you can explore the rock houses by night when they will be illuminated by lights of all colours from October 26 until October 31.
On November 1, there will also be a special Diwali celebration, which will offer lantern making and a Diwali story trail, as well as spectacular illuminations.
Packwood House
Lapworth, Warwickshire, B94 6AT
This 16th-century Tudor house is described as “the culmination of a lifetime of dreams”, full of salvaged objects and interesting pieces from various time periods.
The gardens are home to a famous collection of yews, each a unique avant-garde shape waiting to be explored.
You can also embark on a lakeside walk or venture out into some of the 150 acres of parkland and wildflower meadows and grab a cosy cuppa from the Garden Kitchen Cafe.
If your little one fancies having a go at playing Sherlock Holmes, from October 28 until November 3, you can take part in the Half Term Pumpkin Trail and help solve the mystery of the gardener’s missing prized pumpkins.
Moseley Old Hall
Wolverhampton, Staffordshire, WV10 7HY
This Elizabethan farmhouse is home to many secrets, including the dramatic tale of King Charles II’s escape from Cromwell’s troops during the Civil War.
However, there is plenty more to explore than the hall itself, with a three-storey tree hide and a 17th century style knot garden allowing visitors to have as much fun outside as they would inside.
If you fancy having your own go at hiding out at Moseley Old Hall then you can venture out into the Kings Walk Wood for some den-making.
There are many demonstrations and outdoor activities taking place daily, however, if you are after some spooky fun this Halloween, on October 26, Wild N’ Well Outdoors will be putting on an extra special event.
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