You know when a new Shrek or (*insert legendary ‘kids’ movie here*) comes out and you see all those ‘out of the way, children!’ posts online from grown adults threatening to beat all the actual kids to the front of the queue to the cinema? This is like that, but for a tier of childhood just below the golden cartoon film era.
Many of us will hold The Very Hungry Caterpillar, the children’s book that has truly stood the test of time (along with titles such as The Gruffalo), dear to our hearts, with early memories of Eric Carle’s tale being read to us. Now, the kids who are loving it at this current moment can enjoy a The Very Hungry Caterpillar trail with their parents–who can in turn use it as a nostalgia tour (none of that Oasis nonsense)–around the grounds of a beautiful National Trust property.
The Very Hungry Caterpillar trail
Those hoping to nail each spot on the trail can look forward to tackling it with the family from September 1 at Ham House in Richmond. Around the gardens, children will be able to potter around using the free trail sheet to find different spots along the way, from models of tasty fruit to giant butterflies.
Each station has a QR code to enjoy more games and activities as you head along the trail, mirroring the story of the caterpillar hatching from an egg, eating fruit and snacks ’til it can’t, and eventually becoming a majestic butterfly. What a life.
Speaking on the trail, Robynn Finney, National Trust Experiences Curator said: “Much like our National Trust places Eric Carle’s The Very Hungry Caterpillar™ remains a cherished part of childhoods across the UK and beyond. We are delighted to collaborate with Bakehouse to bring this beloved story to life with trails that inspire new generations to learn about one of nature’s greatest transformations by following the exciting and delicious journey of the world’s most famous caterpillar.”
They say kids have it hard, but they don’t know how lucky they are to have this one. Most adults will agree that, at the right age, a trail on The Very Caterpillar would have been right up their street. Alas, we may not have had this, but we guess we can be gracious enough to let them have the moment this time.
Find ‘The Very Hungry Caterpillar’ trail at Ham House in Richmond from September 1 – October 11, with more details here. You can enjoy the trail for free, though standard admission charges to Ham House will still apply. The trail is recommended for children aged 3-6.
