Wiggle, munch and transform
As new The Very Hungry CaterpillarTM trail opens this winter at Mottisfont
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19 January to 15 March 2026: Mottisfont, near Romsey, Hampshire, SO51 0LP
- Become the world’s most famous caterpillar, from Eric Carle’s best-selling book The Very Hungry Caterpillar™, as new interactive trail opens at Mottisfont, from 19 January to 15 March.
- Families can wiggle along the trail, follow the illustrated signs and spot the vibrant juicy fruits and tasty snacks hidden around the garden before emerging as a beautiful butterfly
- Discover accompanying QR codes , games and activities to learn fun and fascinating facts inspired by this classic children’s tale
This winter, brighten up a dull day and join us for an enchanting journey inspired by Eric Carle’s beloved and iconic children’s book, The Very Hungry Caterpillar™. The National Trust’s Mottisfont in Hampshire is delighted to host a captivating trail where families can experience one of nature’s greatest transformations.
PICTURED ABOVE: Mottisfont – children playing on picnic bench | ©National Trust Images, James Dobson
(LEFT) Very Hungry Caterpillar ™ & © 2025 Penguin Random House LLC; (RIGHT) Mottisfont | ©National Trust Images James Dobson
This charming trail brings to life the best-selling story of the tiny caterpillar who hatches from an egg and is very hungry, so he eats through a variety of fruits and snacks each day. The caterpillar then forms a chrysalis around himself and later, emerges as a beautiful butterfly.
Brought to life with beautifully-illustrated trail markers, giant food cut-outs, activities and games, children learn about the days of the week, counting, and the life cycle of a butterfly, within the picturesque setting of Mottisfont’s gardens.
Pick up a free The Very Hungry Caterpillar™ trail sheet and discover accompanying QR and augmented reality codes, games and activities to learn fun and fascinating facts inspired by this classic children’s tale.
The trail, recommended for children aged 3-6 years, is presented by the award-winning creator of interactive theatrical events, Bakehouse Factory and forms part of a collaboration with the National Trust in London and the South East.
Melissa Perry, 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 Factory 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.”
Mottisfont snowdrops | ©National Trust Images Catherine Hadler
The World of Eric Carle nurtures a child’s love of literature and learning, encouraging imaginative play and exploration. Trusted by parents, teachers, and librarians and beloved by children worldwide for generations, The Very Hungry Caterpillar™, and other timeless storybooks, come to life in colourfully creative books and products, designed to inspire very hungry young minds.
Eric Carle is acclaimed and beloved as the creator of brilliantly illustrated and innovatively designed picture books for young children. Carle illustrated more than 70 books, many best sellers, most of which he also wrote, and more than 175 million copies of his books have sold around the world.
Presented by the award-winning creator of interactive theatrical events, Bakehouse Factory. © 2025 Penguin Random House LLC. ERIC CARLE, THE VERY HUNGRY CATERPILLAR, THE WORLD OF ERIC CARLE logo, the Caterpillar logo and related designs, logos, and names are trademarks and/or registered trademarks of Penguin Random House LLC. All rights reserved. “The Very Hungry Caterpillar” is published by Penguin Random House LLC.
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/hampshire/mottisfont/family-friendly-things-to-do-at-mottisfont
Mottisfont – river walk in winter | ©National Trust Images, James Dobson
The Very Hungry Caterpillar™ trail, 19 January to 15 March, 10am to 4.00pm (last entry 3.30pm), free with normal admission. Recommended for children aged 3-6 years.
www.nationaltrust.org.uk
