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 enthrall both young and old. Children will love testing their curiosity in the giant hedge maze at Harpers Mansion, climbing the boughs of Algerian oak trees at Retford Park or stretching their legs running through the sweeping leaf-scattered lawns at Saumarez Homestead. Older generations can take a gentler pace behind and admire the changing colours of autumn at a stroll. Bring a thermos and a tin filled with biscuits or cake, then convene again after your ramblings for a simple yet special way to mark Mother’s Day.

Take time for tea

There’s a reason afternoon tea is a tradition spanning centuries. Is there anything cosier than indulging in pillowy scones and freshly brewed tea on a crisp autumn afternoon? Head to the glamorous Art Deco interiors of the tea rooms at Everglades House & Gardens and treat yourself or the important women in your life to afternoon tea in the stylish surrounds of the 1930s house nestled 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

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 and Vincent Diner in the Blue Mountains, The Press Shop and Gumnut Bakery in the Southern Highlands or Clementine Bakery in Yass.

Catch up over culture

From a display of decade defining dresses to iconic Australian art, plan a unique outing for Mother’s Day with the National Trust. Take a trip to Old Government House to explore the changing shape of style at the Fashionable Silhouettes exhibition or head to Retford Park and discover the impressive art collection and elegant style of one of Australia’s greatest philanthropists and collectors, James Fairfax. If you are close to Sydney, don’t miss Salon des Refusés at S.H. Ervin Gallery, one of the most highly anticipated exhibitions in the gallery’s calendar.

Fashionable Silhouettes, Thursday and Friday 10am – 4pm Saturday and Sunday 11am – 4pm, ends 9 November 2025, 2025

Salon des Refusés: The ‘alternative’ Archibald & Wynne Prize selection, 10 May ‐ 27 Jul 2025

Tour back through time

A gracefully restored Victorian property, Grossman House makes a delightful location to spend Mother’s Day with your special person. 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 savoury and sweet 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.

The Magic of Mother’s Day at Miss Porter’s House, Sunday 11 May 2025

Mother’s Day Delights at Grossman & Brough Houses, Sunday 11 May 2025.