YOUNGSTERS in Worcestershire on their half-term break this week are being encouraged to get down and dirty at local National Trust properties.

The charity, which looks after 300 places and spaces across the UK from castles and cottages to coastlines and caves, wants children to tick off some of the activities on the trust’s “50 things to do before you’re 11 ¾” list.

The activities include climbing a tree, making a mud pie, running around in the rain, building a den and play Poohsticks.

Harry Bowell, regional director for the National Trust in the Midlands, says: “The National Trust launched the ‘50 things to do before you’re 11¾’ campaign in 2012 as part of its commitment to connect children with nature.

“Over 15,000 children in the Midlands have signed up and are busy ticking activities off their list. It’s all about encouraging kids to get mucky, discover their wild side and get closer to nature.”

During the winter months it can feel like ages since there was a chance to explore the great outdoors, but there are loads of opportunities to do just that with the National Trust at amazing gardens, parkland and countryside in Worcestershire and the surrounding counties over half-term.

Croome Court, between Upton-upon-Severn and Pershore, offers youngsters the chance to tick off No 2 on the list – Rolling down a really big hill – while both Croome and Hanbury Hall, near Droitwich, have vast areas of parkland with plenty of trees, which are perfect for tackling No. 1, Climb a tree, on the 50 things list and No. 22, Explore inside a tree. All trees are home to a multitude of creepy crawlies so provide an opportunity to tackle No. 31, Hunt for bugs.

Greyfriars, in Friar Street, Worcester, and Hanbury Hall both offer space to run around in the rain on a wet day. Children can just grab a waterproof and put on those wellies! Or on a windy day Hanbury is a perfect place for kite flying.

Young visitors to Brockhampton Estate, Bringsty, near Bromyard, can tick off 29 of the challenges on the 50 things list. They can ask a visitor services team member for a 50 things scrapbook and nature trail map, to find some of the best places to go.

Children can sign up for the ‘50 things’ challenge on the National Trust website, which lets them track their progress, earn badges and certificates, and collect secret rewards along the way. There’s even a companion app to download as well.

To find lots of ways to experience the simple pleasures of outdoor adventure, families can visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/midlandsfamilies. There’s also a new downloadable planner online that shows where families can tick off the ‘50 things’ activities in the Midlands.

Another National Trust venue is offering budding young photographers a chance to enjoy the half-term. There will be a Little Snappers photography walk tomorrow (Thursday February 16) at Kinver Edge near Stourbridge. The trust’s photographers will be on hand with tips and techniques for taking great wildlife pictures. The walk starts at 11am and lasts for two hours.

For more information ring 01562 712822 or visit kinveredge@nationaltrust.org.uk. Booking is essential and anyone going along is reminded to wear sturdy shoes or willies and take a drink and a snack – as well as a camera.

The walk starts from outside the Holy Austin Rock Houses, Compton Road, Kinver, DY7 6DL.