• This summer, families can step into the world of Tidy at the National Trust’s Bateman’s in Burwash, East Sussex, with a brand-new trail inspired by the popular book by author and illustrator Emily Gravett. The trail is a collaboration with Pan Macmillan and Two Hoots.
• From 14 June until 31 August visitors to Bateman’s are invited to set off on a nature-themed trail with Pete the Badger and friends around the house and garden and enjoy hands-on activities including wheelbarrow racing and mud play.
• Those visiting on 21 and 22 August can also meet multi award-winning author and illustrator Emily Gravett for storytelling, drawing, and book signings.
• Puppets from the Tidy stage show, a Polka Theatre and Theatr Iolo co-production, will be on display.
• The trail costs £3 per child (normal admission applies).
Join Pete the Badger and his woodland friends on a nature-themed adventure through the gardens and grounds of Bateman’s. Whether you’re a super organiser like Pete or a little on the messy side, this trail offers something for everyone. Step into the story and discover what happens when tidying goes just a bit too far!
‘We’re thrilled to be hosting Emily Gravett’s Tidy trail at Bateman’s this summer, inspired by Emily’s book about a badger called Pete who likes to keep everything neat,’ said Molly Smith, Programming and Partnerships Officer. ‘We have been busy creating fun and engaging activities to get the whole family involved this summer and working with the publishers Pan Macmillan and Two Hoots to bring Emily’s story to life. We can’t wait to welcome you to Bateman’s to see the story unfold.’
Along the trail, help bring the beauty of nature back to life with interactive games like wheelbarrow racing, throwing games, mud play, and more. Discover the importance of caring for the world around us and what can happen when we don’t.
As part of the collaboration, Emily Gravett will be visiting Bateman’s on Saturday 21 and Sunday 22 August for storytelling and drawing sessions, followed by book signings. This is a wonderful opportunity for fans to meet the author and illustrator of Tidy in the beautiful surroundings of Bateman’s.
Emily Gravett says: ‘I am over the moon to see Pete the Badger and my book Tidy being used at Bateman’s for the Tidy trail. I can’t wait to go and visit to see it in person. It looks so creative and fun, and a brilliant way to bring my characters to life.’
Inside the house, there will be puppets on display from the stage adaptation of Tidy, a co-production by Polka Theatre and Theatr Iolo. The production was directed by Lee Lyford, with designs by Rachael Canning, and music and lyrics by Lucy Rivers.
Tidy, is a favourite among children and adults alike. Whether you’re already a fan or discovering the story for the first time, this trail offers a playful and engaging way to learn about looking after nature.
Tidy is written and illustrated by award-winning author and illustrator Emily Gravett and published by Two Hoots/Macmillan Children’s Books.
