Mother's Day
In the UK, Mother’s Day, or Mothering Sunday, is celebrated on the fourth Sunday of Lent. Thanks to the movable date of Easter, the date for Mother’s Day also shifts each year. In 2025, it falls on Sunday 30 March.
Despite sharing a name, Mother’s Day in the UK does not share an origin with the same date in the US. Mothering Sunday is far older, dating back to a medieval tradition which saw people visiting their ‘mother’ churches (places of baptism). In the past, it was common for young people to move away from home for work, so this day was an opportunity for families to come together.
Mother’s Day is still the perfect date to spend time with family, so why not treat your mum to a day out with English Heritage?
Places to Visit with Mum
Celebrate Mother’s Day at an English Heritage site. From historic castles to stunning gardens, our places offer the perfect backdrop for making family memories. Discover fascinating stories of the past, enjoy beautiful landscapes, and revel in quality time with your loved ones. Here is a selection of our favourite destinations for you to explore this Mother’s Day.
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Osborne
A family home at its heart, this beauty spot is the perfect place to celebrate Mother's Day. Explore the gardens and grounds, and enjoy a paddle on Queen Victoria's private beach.
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Dover Castle
Enjoy a family outing to this mighty coastal fortress to discover the new ‘Dover Castle under seige’ exhibition, Great Tower, secret wartime tunnels and much more…
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Beeston Castle
Boasting spectacular views from the Pennines to the Welsh mountains, Beeston Castle is perfect for photography lovers. Don’t miss the castle keep and reconstructed Bronze Age house.
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Audley End House and Gardens
Explore the Service Wing to learn about Victorian life 'below stairs', visit the resident horses and discover beautiful gardens designed by Lancelot 'Capability' Brown and Robert Adam.
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Bolsover Castle
This 17th-century mansion was once intended solely for pleasure and extravagant display. Explore the cavalier Riding School, Little Castle and wall walk - and treat yourself to cake in the café.
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Witley Court and Gardens
Reduced to ruins by fire in 1937, Witley Court is now surrounded by glorious landscaped gardens. Highlights include the spectacular lake, French Parterre and Perseus and Andromeda fountain.
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Rievaulx Abbey
Embrace peace and tranquillity this Mother's Day. Explore the abbey's soaring ruins, set in a remote valley in the North York Moors National Park, and visit the fascinating exhibition.
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Walmer Castle and Gardens
Stroll through the beautiful (and extensive) gardens created for the Queen Mother's 95th birthday. Inside, you'll find a surprisingly home-y atmosphere and the original Wellington Boots.
Afternoon Tea at Wrest Park
Enjoy afternoon tea at Wrest Park this Mother's Day. Relax in our beautiful French style rococo revival Dining Room overlooking the gardens and indulge in a selection of sweet and savoury treats.
Alternatively, channel your inner Queen Charlotte or Lady Diana with a filming tour and Bridgerton afternoon tea.
Book your teaMother's Day gift ideas
Celebrate Mother's Day with a thoughtful gift from English Heritage. Whether your mum adores elegant jewellery or the idea of a cosy getaway in a holiday cottage, we have a range of unique options to make her feel special. Treat her to a membership that opens the door to England’s rich heritage at beautiful places across the country, or add a touch of sweetness to her afternoon tea with our delicious preserves. Browse our gift guide to find the perfect present this Mother’s Day.
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A year of adventures
Surprise Mum with a gift of membership to English Heritage. She can explore England’s rich heritage at 400 extraordinary places across the country, plus exclusive events, discounts, and more. She’ll feel cherished throughout the year, with incredible experiences to look forward to.
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Book a Stay in a Holiday Cottage
Make mum feel special with a holiday cottage stay. Picture her unwinding in a unique historic retreat surrounded by stunning countryside or a coastal getaway by the sea. Our holiday cottages offer cosy interiors, scenic views, and a chance to be immersed in England’s heritage.
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More ideas in the English Heritage shop
Not seen the perfect present yet? Explore our online shop for a selection of unique and thoughtful gift ideas. From award-winning food and drink to unique homewares and beautiful keepsakes, there’s something special for every Mum this Mother's Day.
Family, flowers and female role models
Tap or click below to learn more about the roles of women and mothers in the past. Plus: are you gifting flowers this Mother's Day? Learn the true meaning of flowers with our guide, and make the right choices for your mum.
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Motherhood in 10 objects
Motherhood has always been a cherished role. We take a look at 10 objects from our collections to explore how mothers have lived and loved throughout history.
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Women's history
Women have played an integral role in shaping the course of English history. Read their stories – from the first computer programmer, to fearless monarchs and pioneering scientists.
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The meaning of flowers
Nothing says ‘I love you’ like a bunch of flowers. But during the 19th century, flowers could do much more than that – they could profess undying commitment, a refusal, or even act as an accusation of infidelity.
Family Days Out
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Top 10 Castles
If you could be a king or queen of any castle, which would you choose? We asked our Facebook followers to list their top 10 choices.
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Top Tearooms
We know that cafés and tearooms are an important part of your visit. Here are some of our favourites from around the country.
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Days Out with Dogs
Enjoy a great day out with your dog. There are plenty of dog-friendly English Heritage sites across the country for your furry friends to enjoy.