Introduction: Rediscovering the Joy of Family Days Out

In a world of screens and schedules, there’s something refreshingly grounding about spending a day surrounded by nature, history, and beauty. National Trust sites across the UK offer exactly that—family-friendly escapes that combine education, entertainment, and the outdoors. But for many families, planning these trips comes with one major challenge: space.

Whether it’s fitting in the picnic basket, extra clothing layers, buggy, or the dog’s travel kit, the car fills up quickly. That’s where West Midlands Roof Box Hire steps in—offering convenient, spacious, and easy-to-install roof boxes that transform the way you travel.

In this blog, we’ll guide you through five of the UK’s most family-friendly National Trust destinations, and show you how hiring a roof box can make these trips simpler, more enjoyable, and less cramped.

Why Visit National Trust Sites?

Before we jump into the destinations, let’s remind ourselves what makes a National Trust site so special:

• Preserved historic properties and natural landscapes
• Educational and interactive experiences for kids
• Beautiful walking trails, gardens, and outdoor play areas
• Well-maintained visitor facilities including cafes and toilets
• Many sites welcome dogs and provide family-specific activities

Now let’s pack the boot (or rather, the roof box) and head out on an adventure!

1. Wightwick Manor and Gardens – Wolverhampton, West Midlands

A Local Gem With Victorian Charm

Just a stone’s throw from our base in the West Midlands, Wightwick Manor is a breathtaking example of Victorian architecture and interior design. Families love exploring the Arts and Crafts movement come to life, while the gardens and tea room offer a peaceful retreat for parents and play space for children.

Family Highlights:

• Interactive children’s trail
• Garden games and events during school holidays
• Woodland walks perfect for burning off energy

Roof Box Advantage:
Pack wellies, raincoats, picnic blankets, and a change of clothes with ease. There’s no need to leave essentials behind when you’ve got a roof box doing the heavy lifting.

2. Croome – Worcestershire

A Secret Wartime History Among Serene Landscapes

Croome blends beauty and history with a unique twist. Originally a stately home, Croome became a secret wartime airbase and hub for radar technology during WWII. Kids can learn and explore while adults appreciate the Capability Brown-designed landscape.

Family Highlights:

• RAF-themed playground
• Interactive exhibits about the secret wartime base
• Miles of buggy-friendly paths

Roof Box Advantage:
From scooters and pushchairs to picnic chairs and toys, there’s room for all your family extras when you hire a roof box for the day.

3. Attingham Park – Shropshire

Deer, Drama, and a Stately Home That Wows

Attingham Park is one of Shropshire’s most visited family destinations. With 200 acres of parkland, a deer park, and a house rich in Georgian history, it offers a full day out that’s both relaxing and engaging.

Family Highlights:

• Children’s den-building area
• Seasonal activity trails
• Deer feeding experiences (bookable in advance)

Roof Box Advantage:
If you’re planning a full day at Attingham, you’ll want everything from coats to craft kits. A roof box ensures no one is squashed by cool boxes or toys inside the car.

4. Calke Abbey – Derbyshire

“The Un-Stately Home” That Kids Will Never Forget

Known as the ‘un-stately’ stately home, Calke Abbey is an intriguing destination that reveals what happens when grand houses fall into decline. It’s full of character and is a hit with families due to its woodland play area and acres of space to explore.

Family Highlights:

• Natural play trails
• Beautiful orangery and gardens
• Bike-friendly grounds

Roof Box Advantage:
Bring along bikes, ball games, fold-up picnic furniture or even camping gear for a full day at Calke Abbey. It all fits on the roof—no squabbling over legroom.

5. Stourhead – Wiltshire

Picture-Perfect Views and Garden Walks

For a bit of a longer road trip from the West Midlands, Stourhead is absolutely worth the drive. The 18th-century landscaped gardens surrounding a serene lake offer some of the UK’s most iconic photo opportunities.

Family Highlights:

• Classic bridge and grotto walks
• Wildlife spotting around the lake
• Family activity trails in peak seasons

Roof Box Advantage:
Travelling a bit further? A roof box means you can pack food, extra layers, and everything the kids (and dog!) might need to enjoy the journey and the destination.

How a Roof Box Transforms the Family Day Trip

At West Midlands Roof Box Hire, we’ve helped hundreds of families eliminate the stress of packing and hit the road feeling organised and relaxed. Here’s how hiring a roof box improves your National Trust days out:

1. More Boot Space, Less Stress

With kids and gear to carry, the boot can quickly become a game of Tetris. A roof box clears the way.

2. Comfort for Passengers

Free up footwells and seats for people, not pillows and cool bags.

3. Better Organisation

Separate wet items, sports gear, or dog accessories from food and valuables inside the car.

4. Quick and Easy to Fit

Our team shows you how to fit your box securely, or we can do it for you. All roof boxes are compatible with most vehicles.

5. Affordable for One-Off Use

From just a few pounds per day, you can hire a premium Thule roof box for your trip—far cheaper than buying one.

Tips for Visiting National Trust Sites with Kids

To make the most of your day out, here are some practical tips from seasoned family visitors:

• Book in advance during school holidays to avoid disappointment
• Pack a change of clothes for little ones – they will find a muddy puddle!
• Bring a portable phone charger – you’ll be taking a lot of photos
• Check pet rules if you’re bringing the family dog
• Take advantage of on-site activities and maps to plan your route and avoid meltdowns

Why Families Across the Midlands Choose Us

We’re proud to be the go-to roof box hire service for families across the West Midlands and beyond. With top-of-the-range Thule roof boxes, flexible hire periods, and friendly customer service, it’s no surprise our customers come back again and again.

Whether you’re heading to a local gem like Wightwick Manor or making a day trip to somewhere further afield like Stourhead, we’re here to help you pack smarter and travel happier.

Book Your Roof Box Today – And Make Family Memories With Room to Spare

Ready to rediscover the UK’s best National Trust days out without worrying about space?

Hire your roof box now and make room for everything that matters.

Contact Details:

West Midlands Roof Box Hire
Phone: 07903 839112
Email: westmidlandsroofboxhire@gmail.com
Web: www.westmidlandsroofboxhire.co.uk
Serving Tamworth, Lichfield, Sutton Coldfield, Wolverhampton, Birmingham and all surrounding areas.