Celebrate Mother’s Day with the National Trust

Admire autumnal gardens

If you’re arranging a multi-generation celebration, the gardens of National Trust properties will captivate young and old. Children can test their curiosity in the giant hedge maze at Harpers Mansion, climb the boughs of sprawling oak trees at Retford Park or run through leaf-scattered lawns at Saumarez Homestead or Everglades House & Gardens. Older generations can take a gentler pace and admire the changing colours of autumn at a stroll. Pack a picnic blanket, bring a thermos and don’t forget a tin filled with biscuits or cake.

Take time for tea

There’s a reason afternoon tea is a tradition spanning centuries. Indulging in pillowy scones, homemade cake and freshly brewed tea is one the most delightful ways you can spend a crisp autumn afternoon. Head to the glamorous Art Deco interiors of the tea rooms at Everglades House & Gardens and treat yourself or the women in your life to afternoon tea in the stylish surrounds of the 1930s housenestled in the upper Blue Mountains. Further afield at Dundullimal Homestead, Devonshire tea is served at the Shed Café overlooking the tranquil countryside of Wiradjuri Country, Dubbo.

Everglades House & Gardens tea rooms, open Thursday – Sunday 11am – 3pm (final seating at 2.30pm)

Dundullimal Homestead, open Monday, Friday and Saturday 11am – 3pm

Stroll through a historic house at sunset

For a Mother’s Day celebration with a difference, visit Retford Park at the magical hour of twilight. Enjoy drinks and canapes in the front garden as the sun sets and the soft pink Victorian Italianate villa lights up with an alluring glow. As the evening draws in, you’ll be guided through the historic 1887 house, softly illuminated by lamplight. Take in the elegant antiques and stunning artworks in the grand rooms, before heading out for a celebratory dinner together.

Book Mother’s Day Sunset Evenings at Retford Park

Plan a picnic

Whether it is the rolling lawns of Retford Park or the sculpture studded gardens of Norman Lindsay Gallery, there are countless picturesque picnic spots to be found at National Trust properties. Spoil her by packing a delicious lunch or afternoon tea and spend the day outdoors with family or loved ones. Many of our properties lie in close proximity to wonderful bakeries and delis, making it easy to assemble a basket of gourmet treats. On our list? Black Cockatoo Bakery in the Blue Mountains, Gumnut Patisserie and Baked in Berrima in the Southern Highlands or Clementine Bakery in Yass.

Discover the National Trust’s best picnic spots.

Learn about garden history

For lovers of plants and blooms, a tour of Goldenvale is an ideal way to celebrate Mother’s Day. Join experienced gardener Nicholas Robinson for a tour of Golden Vale’s graceful English-style gardens, as he shares his passion for the heritage plantings, the legacy they represent and the incredible transformation the historic garden has experienced since the 1860s. Following the tour, stroll through the elegant Georgian Homestead, then enjoy a light lunch in the picturesque surrounds of this classic rural landscape.

Book Goldenvale Garden History Tour, Saturday 9 May

Tour back through time

An elegantly restored Victorian property, Grossman House makes a delightful location to spend Mother’s Day. Enjoy a glass of sparkling wine on arrival, then join a knowledgeable guide on a tour of the historic house at our exclusive Mother’s Day Delights event. End your visit in the beautiful gardens of adjoining Brough House, where a selection of refreshments and homemade sweet and savoury delicacies will be served. At Miss Porter’s House, be inspired by three generations of remarkable women at The Magic of Mother’s Day open day. Enjoy a tour of the house, listen to stories of the Porter women and browse charming handmade crafts and pot plants.

Mother’s Day Delights at Grossman & Brough Houses, Sunday 10 May 2026

The Magic of Mother’s Day at Miss Porter’s House, Sunday 10 May 2026