Celebrate Chinese New Year and starry nights at Stowe House this February half-term
Families looking for a relaxed, great-value February half term day out are invited to discover Stowe House, where history, creativity and hands-on fun come together in a welcoming setting for all ages.
From 14–22 February, Stowe House is celebrating Chinese New Year with a colourful programme of free, family-friendly activities designed to spark curiosity and imagination. Open daily from 10.30am–4.30pm, the House offers plenty to explore at a gentle pace, making it ideal for parents, grandparents and children to enjoy together.
A Trail Full of Discovery
Children can follow a free Chinese New Year Zodiac Trail, searching for all twelve zodiac animals hidden throughout the historic rooms. Along the way, young explorers will learn the stories and meanings behind each animal, turning a visit to the House into an engaging adventure.
Creative Activities for All Ages
Families can dip in and out of a range of hands-on craft activities inspired by Chinese New Year traditions, available throughout the day:
- Chinese Calligraphy – learn how to write the character for ‘horse’ using traditional brushstrokes
- Paper Fortune Cookies – create a keepsake fortune to gift to someone special
- Colouring-In Station – a calm creative space for younger children
On 18 February, 11.00am–3.00pm, visitors can also enjoy a special Pocket Hug drop-in workshop, where children can make a small handmade keepsake to give to a loved one.
“We want Stowe House to feel like a place where families can slow down, explore together and enjoy learning in a really relaxed way,” says Amy Walsh, Community Learning Officer. “Our February half term activities are designed so children can get hands-on, be creative and discover something new, while adults can enjoy sharing that experience with them.”
Kids Go Free
Stowe House makes family days out easy and affordable. Children go free with a paying adult, and families who pre-book can park directly at the House, avoiding long walks and making arrival stress-free. This is a feature particularly appreciated by parents and grandparents alike.
Stars at Stowe Stargazing Evenings
Families can also extend their half term experience into the evening with Stars at Stowe Stargazing, taking place on 17 and 18 February, 6.00pm–9.00pm.
Back by popular demand and delivered in partnership with UK Astronomy, these magical evenings include an engaging talk about our solar system, followed by guided stargazing from the South Front using shared telescopes. Experts will be on hand to help visitors spot planets and constellations, answer questions and bring the night sky to life.
The event is suitable for families and includes light refreshments. Tickets range from £12.50 to £18.50 and booking is essential.
Plan Your Visit
Stowe House is open daily throughout February half term. Find out more and plan your visit at stowehouse.org.