What to see this autumn at National Trust’s Basildon Park
You don’t have to venture far this autumn to find yourself enveloped by warm, golden woodland at the National Trust’s Basildon Park.
Ash and field maple turn golden yellow, the Capodocian maple is a deep red/green and contrasts with the rusty brown beech trees. Soak up the spirit of the autumn woodland and enjoy views back to the golden stone of the Georgian mansion.
And there are several events coming up that are worth pencilling in the diary.
Carr 300 exhibition: September 9 – November 5
Exhibition to mark the 300th anniversary of the birth of John Carr of York, the architect of Basildon Park. Carr was one of the most prolific and significant architects of the mid-18th century.
Previously unseen architectural salvage will be on display.
Heritage Open Days: September 11-16
Free entry to the pleasure gardens, parkland and Georgian mansion with its impressive collection of fine furnishings and Old Master paintings.
Half term: Fantastic Fungi Trail: October 14-31
Pick up a trail sheet to find fungi themed facts, games and activities. Includes a prize. £2
India & Me exhibition: until 28 October
The sensory installation, India and Me, brings to life the historic Zuber wallpaper of the Garden Room with stories from the local Indian Community in Reading.
Live Rangoli creation: October 14 (during the Festival of Light and Colour) & November 11 (for Diwali)
A local artist will create a traditional rangoli decoration live in the Garden Room surrounded by the India & Me exhibition. A rangoli is a large scale, brightly coloured, temporary artwork created on the floor from powdered materials such as rice flour, coloured sand or flower petals. Take part in a family-friendly, rangoli craft activity.
Festival of Light and Colour: October 14-21
As the days are dimming, Basildon Park is turning up the colour and light. Find colourful lanterns, diyas, tealights, torans and projections. Childrens trail and craft activity to create their very own rangoli bookmark.
