DO you remember the feeling of rolling down a really big hill? For those 10 seconds there was nothing else in the world but the smell of the grass and the sun on your face, and the incredible thrill of tumbling, being on the edge of out-of-control.

Such simple pleasures are among the National Trust’s suggestions for 50 things to do before you’re 11¾ – the campaign to get kids outdoors and in touch with the natural world around them. They include intrepid activities like climbing a tree, damming a stream and camping in the wild, as well as more intimate activities such as mud pie-making, hunting for bugs, and the joy of a producing a piercing whistle from a grass trumpet.

There are 50 things scrapbooks and activities at National Trust places, alongside enough trails and play activities, crafts and garden games to give the whole family a summer adventure.

The countryside and parkland looked after by the National Trust is perfect for summer exploring and picnicking. The beautiful gardens are at their colourful best in summer, filled with paths and lawns to run along, walled gardens to hide in, and peaceful shady spots where you can close your eyes and soak up summer scents and the dreamy buzz of insects.

National Trust members visit for free, but there is sometimes a separate charge for specific events and activities. All profits go to the care and upkeep of the special places we look after for you and future generations to enjoy. All details and other ideas for family days out can be found on the National Trust website: www.national

trust.org.uk/days-out/regionlondonsoutheast/london-and-the-south-east

Some favourite summer activities in Hampshire include:

HINTON AMPNER at Bramdean near Alresford

• Straw bale maze: until September 4, 10am – 5pm, normal admission charge only.

Last summer’s straw maze at Hinton Ampner was such a huge success that it has come back for the school holidays!

Can your little ones beat the maze? Let them loose in the ancient parkland, as they run round the giant puzzle to find the surprise in the centre.

• Wild Camp: Saturday, August 20, 5pm-11.45pm. Bring you own tent and have a wild camping adventure.

For details visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/hinton-ampner Tel: 01962 793515

MOTTISFONT ABBEY,

near Romsey.

• Beatrix Potter: Play and Childhood exhibition and trail: until September 18.

This exhibition of 30 delightful and original Beatrix Potter watercolours and drawings celebrates the 150th anniversary of the author and illustrator’s birth.

The artworks, rarely shown outside of their home in the Lake District, feature some of Beatrix Potter’s most famous characters, from naughty Peter Rabbit to the extremely mischievous Two Bad Mice. You’ll also discover a selection of rare vintage Beatrix Potter dolls and figurines.

Accompanying the exhibition is an action-packed family trail inspired by Beatrix’s playful characters and colourful stories. On set weekends there’s a host of additional Beatrix Potter-themed fun, including storytelling and drop-in sessions with artists. These will run on August 27 and 28.

For details visit www.

nationaltrust.

org.uk/mottisfont

Tel: 01794 340757

THE VYNE, at Sherborne St John, near Basingstoke

• Tree climbing: August 20 and September 2, 10am – 3.45pm.

For a vertical adventure, join the Great Big Tree Climbing Company at The Vyne, and you’ll find yourself entering the canopy of a huge tree, using ropes, knots and karabiners whilst being securely attached in a harness.

Two friendly instructors will be on hand to help you every step of the way.

Suitable for ages 6 and upwards. Cost £20, book on 0800 0556760

• Make a trail with sticks: August 27, noon.

Find out how to create your own unique trails using a variety of sticks. Then see if anyone can follow it right to the end.

Normal admission charge plus £1 per child, book on 01256 883858.

Further information at www.nationaltrust.org.uk/the-vyne

Tel: 01256 883858

WINCHESTER CITY MILL

• Themed baking demonstrations on September 3, 11am-3pm (mill open 10am-5pm)

This bustling working watermill hosts regular themed baking demonstrations that use the mill’s own stoneground flour to make seasonal treats. You can taste the results too, and take home free recipe cards. Whilst you’re at the mill, experience the full force of the River Itchen as it roars beneath the building – known as the Thrill of the Mill. Don’t forget to view the latest CCTV footage of the mill’s resident otters, who also love the Itchen!

• Plan your South Downs adventure: Winchester City Mill is also the official gateway to the South Downs National Park. A permanent exhibition space introduces people to the delights of walking, cycling and enjoying days out in England’s newest National Park. Discover more about the South Downs’ special landscapes and wildlife, find ideas for local walks and experiences, as well as how easy it can be to explore by trains, buses or bicycle.

• Summertime Fun: to September 4, 10am -4pm.

As well as a range of quizzes and trails to take you around this ancient working watermill, participate in our summer challenge everyday throughout the holiday. Are you bold enough to take on the Mill?

• A Tudor Wedding: August 23 and 25, 11:30am and 2:00pm.

Pedlars and Petticoats will be bringing their costumed characters to the City Mill. Meet them and hear about the marriage of Queen Mary I ("Bloody Mary") to Phillip II of Spain, which took place in Winchester Cathedral in 1554. Learn about Tudor customs and habits, find out how to behave at court and, most importantly, how not to lose your head!

Normal admission charge only, but booking recommended to avoid disappointment – call 01962 870057 or email [email protected]

Tel: 01962 870057

UPPARK HOUSE AND GARDEN at South Harting, near Petersfield

• School holiday trails: to September 4, 11am to 4pm.

Have fun following the family fun trail around grounds at Uppark.

If you bring a kite, you can take advantage of Uppark’s wonderful location on top of the South Downs.

Normal admission charge plus £1 per trail.

Tel: 01730 825415.