RHS Rosemoor to host "Guess How Much I Love You" interactive family trail and activities this half term

RHS Rosemoor is set to transform into a magical world of art, nature, and storytelling with its immersive "Guess How Much I Love You" experience. Inspired by the beloved children's classic by Sam McBratney and illustrated by Anita Jeram, the event will run throughout the year, kicking off at February half-term.

This innovative initiative invites families to explore a playful, interactive trail that re-enacts the adventures of the iconic Little Nutbrown Hare. Along the route, young visitors will have the chance to bounce, hop, and stretch as they discover the many colours, textures, and shapes that nature has to offer. The trail is designed not only to entertain but also to educate children about the natural world, growth, and the changing seasons.

Accompanying the physical trail are further events:

• Puppet Theatre: On Monday, 17 February, the "Along Came a Magpie" puppet theatre will delight children aged 7 and under with the quirky tale of a gardener in a potting shed interrupted by a curious bird. Performances are scheduled at 11am and 2pm, with tickets priced at £2.50 per child and £1 per adult. Advance booking is essential.

• Craft Workshops: Throughout the week starting 17 February, drop-in craft workshops will be available in the Garden Room:

  • Monday, 17 February: Make a hare pot and plant carrot seeds.

  • Tuesday, 18 February: Create your own paper hug.

  • Wednesday, 19 February: Craft a mini hare.

  • Thursday, 20 February: Design a hare puppet.

  • Friday, 21 February: Produce "stained glass" hare art.

• Storytelling Sessions: On Wednesday, 19 February, families can enjoy live storytelling sessions featuring Little Nutbrown Hare and Big Nutbrown Hare as they measure their love for each other. Sessions are available at 10:30am, 11:30am, 2pm, and 3pm. These sessions are free, though booking is advised.

• Guided Welly Walk: Also on 19 February, a guided Welly Walk for children aged 5 and under (accompanied by an adult) will explore the garden and include a craft or planting activity, with tickets at £3 per child.

• Face Painting: On Wednesday, 19 February, nature-themed face painting sessions will be available on a drop-in basis from 10:30am–12:30pm and 2pm–3:30pm.

• "At the Bottom of Dudley’s Garden": On Thursday, 20 February, children and families can listen to a captivating story about wildflowers and pollinators, followed by an activity where they create a butterfly or colour in a garden picture. These sessions run at 10:30am, 12 noon, 2pm, and 3:15pm. Participation is free but booking is required.

In a bid to encourage more families to get outdoors and connect with nature, RHS Rosemoor is reducing ticket prices for visitors aged 5 to 16 to just £5 starting 11 February, while admission remains free for under-fives. Adults can also enjoy savings of up to 25% when booking online ahead of their visit.

"Guess How Much I Love You" has been a cherished book for decades, captivating generations with its gentle exploration of love and connection. By bringing the story to life against the backdrop of the beautiful gardens at RHS Rosemoor, organisers hope to create an engaging experience that nurtures both creativity and an appreciation for nature.

Families and visitors interested in this unique event can find more information and book their tickets by visiting the RHS Rosemoor website.

With its imaginative blend of storytelling, crafts, and nature exploration, the "Guess How Much I Love You" experience promises to be a highlight of 2025, inviting all to celebrate the wonder of childhood and the beauty of the natural world.