The Gruffalo Trail at Rippon Lea Estate - Melbourne - Review
Kate took her Gruffalo lovers to the Gruffalo Trail at Rippon Lea Estate last week and looked for the Gruffalo through the wood and found so much more through the beautiful Rippon Lea Gardens. A great activity to do with the family these upcoming holidays.
Photo credit: @kateflatman for @busycitykids
“A mouse took a stroll through the deep dark wood. “
The story of The Gruffalo has been delighting children for 20 years and now a new interactive trail at Rippon Lea Estate has opened celebrating the anniversary of the beloved book’s release.
Photo credit: @kateflatman for @busycitykids
The Gruffalo Trail is a self-guided activity and is included in your general admission entry ticket to Rippon Lea Estate.
Photo credit: @kateflatman for @busycitykids
Photo credit: @kateflatman for @busycitykids
Journey through the winding paths and gardens into the deep dark wood to spot your favourite characters from the popular children’s book using a new augmented reality app.
Photo credit: @kateflatman for @busycitykids
Photo credit: @kateflatman for @busycitykids
Before you visit, be sure to download The Gruffalo Spotter AUS App on your smart phone so that once you arrive at Rippon Lea Estate you can begin looking for the signs along the trail to bring the characters to life.
Photo credit: @kateflatman for @busycitykids
There are five markers to activate: Mouse, Fox, Owl, Snake and The Gruffalo. Jump behind or beside the marker to snap a cute photo.
Photo credit: @kateflatman for @busycitykids
A Spotters’ Guide is available for little explorers and helps you keep a note of the clues you spot along the way.
Photo credit: @kateflatman for @busycitykids
Photo credit: @kateflatman for @busycitykids
Once completed, be sure to visit the Gatehouse for your sticker sheet!
Photo credit: @kateflatman for @busycitykids
Photo credit: @kateflatman for @busycitykids
Our tips:
Download The Gruffalo Spotter AUS App on your smart phone device before you arrive as there is no WiFi available on site.
Be sure to save your photos before deleting the app. We recommended using your phone in landscape mode for the best picture.
Allow approximately 45 -60 minutes to complete the trail + additional time for lunch.
Wear good walking shoes and ensure to take your hat and sunscreen.
Bring a picnic to enjoy in the gardens after you have completed the trail.
There are a few rotundas and seats around the gardens to stop for a snack, drink, rest or respite from the sun.
Rippon Lea Gatehouse Tea Rooms offer a range of sweets, hot and cold drinks and sandwiches.
Keep hydrated and drink water. You can refill your water bottle at one of several drinking taps.
The gardens are mostly pram friendly with only a few stairs. An alternate accessible trail is suggested along the way.
There are baby change facilities located in the new toilet block next to the Stables and Coach House.
Be sure to stay off garden beds and keep an eye on little ones at all times around The Lake + don’t let them chase the resident ducks!
The Gruffalo Trail is on daily from August 2019 to July 2020.
General admission entry includes garden access, guided tours and the Gruffalo Trail. Adult: $15, Concession: $12, Child (3-15 years, children under 3 enter free): $9, Family (2 adults & 2 children): $40 and National Trust Members: Free.
Photo credit: @kateflatman for @busycitykids
Busy City Kids were hosted by Rippon Lea Estate for the purposes of a review. Travel and food were self funded. All opinions & feedback are genuine & truthful.
For more ideas of what to do with the kids in Melbourne, checkout our Website, our Daily Spots List, CBD Spots or Blog.