Top 10 Family Trails in Sussex & Surrey for May Half term 2025.
Looking for fun family days out this May Half Term? Whether you’re planning adventures in Sussex or Surrey, here are 10 of the best family trails – from dragon quests and stick-hunting to musical birds and nostalgic favourites.
Perfect for toddlers, tweens, and everything in between.
1. The Very Hungry Caterpillar Trail – Sheffield Park & Garden, Sussex
May 2025 – Sunday 22nd June | 10am–5pm | Free with admission
Follow Eric Carle’s iconic story from tiny egg to beautiful butterfly on this charming trail through the gardens. Featuring fruity sculptures, bug-tastic activities and giant illustrations, this is a gentle adventure for all ages.
2. How To Train Your Dragon Trail – Bodiam Castle, Sussex
Sat 24th May – Sun 7th Sept | 10am–4pm | £3 + admission
Learn to speak Dragonese, tame mythical creatures, and uncover Viking secrets on this epic dragon-themed quest. Designed with young explorers in mind, the trail ends with a prize for brave adventurers.
3. Knights of the Castle Shield Trail – Lewes Castle & Museum
Sat 24th May – Sun 1st June | Included with entry
Grab your colouring pencils and search for hidden shields across the castle grounds. There’s a dress-up station, panoramic views, and stories from the Battle of Lewes waiting to be discovered.
4. Oscar & The Dawn Chorus Kids Trail – Borde Hill Garden, Sussex
Sat 24th May – Sun 1st June | £4 per child (includes a prize)
Meet Oscar the Owl on a musical trail to find the best bird singers for his Dawn Chorus. Kids can tap, chirp, and sing along while learning about garden wildlife. Perfect for ages 3–8.
5. Moomins Trail – Nymans, Handcross, Sussex
May – Sun 13th July | Included with admission
Step into the world of Moominvalley! This new trail is packed with gentle magic, loveable characters, and outdoor play for small feet and big imaginations.
6. Discovery Land – Priory Farm, South Nutfield, Surrey
Open year-round | Trail included with entry
Wander through meadows, lakes and ancient woodland on this year-round nature trail. With 40 acres of trails, surprises, and play points, it’s a perfect countryside escape for kids who love to roam.
7. Stick Man Trail – Alice Holt Forest, Farnham, Surrey
Ongoing | £4 trail pack from Visitor Centre
Stick Man is back! Grab your activity pack and set off on a forest adventure filled with woodland wildlife, games, and challenges. Don’t forget to collect your stickers and craft your own Stick Man.
8. Scented Puzzle Trail – Watts Gallery, Surrey
Sat 24th May – Sun 1st June | £1 per trail
Test your senses as you explore Victorian scents, secret puzzles and a giant crossword hidden in the woods and galleries. A quirky and creative experience for curious families.
9. Natural Play Trail – Box Hill, Tadworth, Surreyhttps://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/surrey/box-hill
Open daily | Free
Let imaginations run wild on this two-mile woodland trail with tree climbing, den building, and nature fun around every corner. Ideal for free play and picnic stops.
10. The Deepdene Trail – Dorking, Surrey
Open daily | Free
Take a self-guided journey through one of England’s great historic gardens. Just 15 minutes from Dorking town centre, this trail features storytelling stops, secret tunnels, and the hauntingly beautiful Hope mausoleum.
If you’re wondering, “what should I pack for a family trail day out?” here are our bonus tips:
- Waterproofs & layers (British weather loves drama)
- Trail snacks & water bottles
- Binoculars & bug pots
- Wipes & plasters
- A sense of adventure!
From magical story trails to medieval quests, these top 10 family walks in Sussex and Surrey are the perfect way to soak up the outdoors this May Half Term. Don’t forget your wellies, your picnic, and your camera, these are memories worth capturing! Have fun!
