Mother’s Day is a special occasion when families often gather across generations, making it important to find an outing that offers something for everyone — without breaking the bank. Witley Court and Gardens, located just 50 minutes from Birmingham, offers the perfect blend of history, nature, and play, all accessible for free on Mother’s Day.
Once a stunning Italianate mansion famed for hosting lavish Victorian parties, Witley Court was devastated by fire in 1937. Today, English Heritage preserves the site as a “magnificently romantic ruin,” inviting visitors to explore its open-roofed, labyrinthine passages accompanied by a free audio guide.
The extensive landscaped gardens captivate with their formal topiary, intricate parterres, and bursts of seasonal blooms. Visitors can marvel at the impressive Perseus and Andromeda fountain, which springs to life from April through October, adding a dynamic centerpiece to the grounds.
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Families will especially appreciate the Wilderness Play Area — a wooden playground designed to reflect the surrounding Wilderness Gardens. Children can test their balance on the wobbly bridge, climb into the seed pod–shaped treehouse, enjoy wooden ride-on animals, or swing in the nest-like basket swing. Other features include scramble nets, slides, rope walks, a grass-covered amphitheatre for imaginative performances, and nature-inspired musical instruments, all designed to engage children rain or shine.
Beyond the playground, the wooded trails offer a peaceful escape where families can spot birds, rabbits, and squirrels using free wildlife spotter sheets. A scenic path follows the lake’s edge past a rustic boathouse, perfect for picnics or a leisurely stroll. Light refreshments are available at the visitor centre.
Tickets usually cost £9 for adults and £5.40 for children, but Witley Court will be open free of charge on Mother’s Day, March 15, as well as selected days during National Lottery Open Week (March 7, 8, and 11–15). Visitors need not book in advance but can secure their spot online using the code NLOPENWEEK26. Don’t forget to bring proof of a National Lottery game purchase, which grants one adult and two children free entry—separate tickets are required for each visitor.
Located at Worcester Road, Great Witley, Worcestershire, WR6 6JT, Witley Court is easily accessible from Birmingham via the M5, traffic permitting. Whether you’re planning a memorable Mother’s Day or a family day out, Witley Court and Gardens offers a rich combination of heritage, nature, and fun for all ages.