- Play Hard
- 23rd Jan 2026
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Don’t miss Mudfest 2026 at WWT Washington Wetland Centre this half term
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Half-term is creeping up – and if you’re already wondering how to keep the kids entertained, WWT Washington Wetland Centre has got just the thing.
Washington Wetland Centre is inviting families to embrace the mess this February with Mudfest 2026, a gloriously muddy celebration of outdoor fun.
And yes, getting dirty is very much encouraged.
HLN TOP TIP: Download the WWT Washington app and you’ll get 15% off admission when you book through it – more money saved for hot chocolates afterwards.
MUDFEST 2026: WHERE GETTING MESSY IS THE WHOLE POINT
Running from Saturday 21st February to Sunday 1st March, Mudfest is all about showing kids (and grown-ups) just how fun mud can be. Pull on your wellies, forget about clean clothes and get ready to stomp, splash and squelch your way through half term.
Mud plays a huge role in wetlands and wildlife, and Mudfest brings that to life with hands-on activities that are fun, creative and – let’s be honest – satisfyingly messy. It’s the perfect excuse to get outside, burn off some energy and let little ones explore nature in the best way possible.
Daily activities kids will love
Plenty is happening every day during Mudfest, so you can drop in and get involved whenever suits you. Expect lots of laughter with the mud obstacle course, where kids can slide, stretch and scramble their way through the muck.
Feeling competitive? Try welly wanging and see who can throw a welly the furthest or take on the bird-themed bean bag toss, inspired by wetland favourites like lapwings and curlews. For younger visitors, the sensory mud play tables are a big hit – perfect for squishing, sculpting and getting creative.
Crafts, creatures and pond dipping adventures
Alongside the daily muddy fun, there’s a full line-up of special activities throughout the week. Families can get creative with nature-inspired crafts, make their own wetland creatures from clay, or head out to pond dipping to discover what’s lurking beneath the water’s surface.
There’s even the chance to help with willow tree planting in Wet Wood – a lovely way to show children how they can help look after nature while having fun outdoors.
FANCY SOMETHING A BIT CALMER? TRY A WILD WALK
If you’re visiting without little ones – or just fancy slowing things down – the Wild Walks on Sunday 22nd February and Sunday 1st March are well worth joining. Led by Washington’s expert wardens, these relaxed hour-long walks explore the wilder corners of the reserve and reveal how mud helps create vital habitats for birds and wildlife.
They’re informal, informative and great if you’re interested in nature, photography or want to enjoy a peaceful walk with expert insight. Best of all, they’re included with general admission and don’t need booking – just meet at the picture window near admissions.
<span class="s1">BOOK NOW</span>
WWT Washington Wetland Centre, Barmston Lane, Pattinson, Washington NE38 8LE
Rachael Ellis
Head of Content
After gaining a first in her BA Media and Journalism degree at Northumbria University, Rachael worked at Newcastle’s leading regional newspaper with her stories being picked up in national and global newspapers. She spent two very successful years giving a voice to those communities across the North East who otherwise…
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