Autumn’s backdrop of leaves and conkers create a natural playground, so October half term is the perfect time to explore the great outdoors, and the National Trust has plenty of ideas on where to do it.

At Ightham Mote in Borough Green and Scotney Castle at Lamberhurst , there will be family trails which promise to bring kids closer to nature, exploring acres of gardens, parkland and woods.

The charity's 50 Things to do Before You’re 11¾ has plenty of ideas for the season, such as making wild art from fallen leaves; looking out for the different creatures on the hibernation trail at Ightham Mote or discovering the folklore of the trees at Emmetts Garden near Sevenoaks.

At this time of year, it includes how to make homes for hedgehogs and bees, which you can do in our garden or at a National Trust property. Find out more here.

Every visit to the sites helps keep them open for future generations. Currently, visitors need to book in advance, but every Friday new tickets are released for the following week. Here's our round-up for what's happening across the area:

Chartwell, Westerham

Half term is harvest time with the pumpkins that have been growing in the veg garden displayed around the grounds. There a spotter sheet with different things to look out for for kids and the play area and bomb crater are great for running off some steam.

Emmetts Garden, Ide Hill, Sevenoaks

Find out about the folklore of trees and make up your own story as you follow the route around the estate. A spotter sheet is provided to guide the way around and the natural play area will get little ones tired out ready for the journey home.

Ightham Mote, Borough Green

Look out for the trail around the garden - can you spot the 10 different animals that like to hibernate there? The images along the way also aim to get everyone talking about wildlife.

Scotney Castle, Lamberhurst

The garden team have chosen their best autumnal trees around the garden and you can find out fun facts about each one. It’s also the best time to capture a snap for your social media, with colourful reflections in the moat.

And over the border in East Sussex:

Bateman’s

Can you find all the colours of the rainbow as you venture around the garden and estate? Listen out for the crunch of leaves underfoot, peek through the branches to see what you can see or collect different shaped and coloured leaves.

Bodiam Castle

When the castle towers are open you can see for miles – imagine what it would have been like to keep lookout for enemies with your bow and arrow. Visitors are also encouraged to look out for 50 Things to do Before You’re 11¾ activity ideas to have a go at.

Don’t forget to share your outdoor adventures on social media using #EveryoneNeedsNature.

What's on this half term across Kent.

For more days out ideas across Kent click here.