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Walking with the Snowman Sculpture Trail

Yesterday we visited the Walking with the Snowman Sculpture Trail which is currently at Winkworth Arboretum for Christmas. The Walking with Snowman Sculpture Trail has toured the UK. In previous years it has appeared in London Bridge City, Birmingham city centre and Middlesbrough. As we as numerous other locations. There is also an alternative trail running in Hitchin town centre this year. No matter where you see the trail you will see the same beautiful giant snowman sculptures painted by local artists based on the 12 days of Christmas. Here is how we got on at the Snowman Trail at National Trust.

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Walking with the Snowman Sculpture Trail

The trail was created for the 40th anniversary of Raymond Briggs and the heart-warming picture book. The book reminds me of my own childhood and for us is the ultimate festive story. We were really lucky when we visited as it was bright and cold with a thick frost. Seeing the snowman in a wintery woodland really added to the effect of the art trail. It was also quite a short distance. Which meant we were not there for very long about an hour and a half. At this time of year, I really appreciated it as I have a to-do list as long as my arm. But at the same time, we always try to visit at least one National Trust property at Christmas time.

Winkworth Arboretum for Christmas

If you are planning on visiting the snowman sculpture trails at the National Trust’s Winkworth Arboretum then here are some tips to make your visit easier.

You must book in advance it is extremely popular at certain times, especially at the weekend being fully sold out.
The enchanting trail of the colourful sculptures is running until the 2nd of January
You can pick up a copy of the trail map from the ticket office.
On certain dates, it is also possible to go on an old-fashioned carousel. You purchase carousel rides from the ticket office for £3 each. The dates in December which the carousel is running are – 3rd, 4th, 10th, 11th, 17th to 23rd and 26th to 2nd of January
The short circular route will take you around the top of the Arboretum and so is suitable for buggies. There are plenty of themed activities for the children. Which really helped keep the boys engaged on the wintry walk
A small wooden play area can be seen from the trail, although slippery in the frost provided lots of opportunities to climb for the boys.
There is also a stand outside the cafe selling popcorn (50p) and candy floss (£1) but they only take cash. Hot drinks including hot chocolate are available in the cafe.
There is a lot of outside seating next to the cafe which sells Cornish pasties for £4.95-£5.25, sausage rolls, premade sandwiches and lots of cake!
A kid’s lunch box costs £4.95 including a drink, sandwich, flapjack, fruit and a packet of Pomme bears.
Keeping the magic of Raymond Briggs alive you can also purchase a copy of the magical adventure and an activity book from the cafe. Along with a shortbread snowman.
Entrance is free for National Trust members

The Snowman Trail

Regardless of where you visit the trail, it is beautiful with intricately decorated models. They are all presented on a little stand with a plaque underneath. This gives you details of the name of the design and the professional artist and their inspiration. Below are pictures of all twelve of the snowmen at Winwork Arboretum.

Partridge in a Pear Tree

Two Turtle Doves

Three French Hens

Four Singing Birds

Five Gold Rings

Six Geese A Laying

Seven Swans A Swimming

Eight Maids A Milking

Nine Ladies Dancing

Ten Lords A Leaping

Eleven Pipers Piping

Twelve Drummers Drumming

We really enjoyed visiting the incredible sculptures and reliving Raymond Briggs’ magical classic which has been loved by generations of children. Walking with the Snowman™ is presented by Wild in Art, in partnership with Penguin Ventures, part of Penguin Random House UK. You can find out more about the trail and its next locations on the Walking with the Snowman website. Winkworth Arboretum at Christmas should really be on your must-see list.

Hitchin Walking with the Snowman Trail

If you plan to visit the festive sculpture trail in Hitchin in the new year then the confirmed dates are the 19th of November to the 20th of January. You will be able to pick up a map for the city trail from Hitchin Library, Hitchin museum or the Hitchin information centre. The trail is free although participants are being encouraged to donate to the Samaritans, Asthma + Lung UK and local Hitchin charity, Open Art Box.

Are you planning on visiting Snowman™ sculptures this festive season? Let me know your plans for festive fun in the comments below.