Stomp, splash and squelch this February half term as Mudfest returns to WWT Castle Espie

Families across Northern Ireland are invited to embrace the mess this February half term as Mudfest returns to WWT Castle Espie from 7–15 February 2026.

Taking place for one muddy week only, Mudfest is a joyful celebration of all things squelchy, sensory and outdoors. Designed especially for children and families, the event encourages visitors to pull on their wellies, dive into nature and discover just how magical mud can be within WWTCastle Espie’s super-powered wetlands on the shores of Strangford Lough.

Mud isn’t just messy – it’s marvellous. It’s the foundation of healthy wetlands and the perfect ingredient for unforgettable family adventures. Throughout the week, families can get hands-on with a packed programme of messy, creative and nature-inspired activities, including:

• Cooking up muddy masterpieces in the mud kitchen (just don’t taste them!)

• Climbing, crawling and creeping through a muddy obstacle course

• Sculpting clay into wetland birds using natural materials

• Building a safe, sturdy and super-squelchy mud nest fit for a wetland bird

• Creating gloriously messy mud art

• Splashing through puddles of every size – because clean clothes are overrated

• Scooping, slinging and scoring in a mudslinging challenge

• Feeling the mud between your toes in a dedicated barefoot squelch area

• Discovering the tiny creatures living beneath the surface of wetlands

Alongside Mudfest, visitors to WWT Castle Espie this February half term can also enjoy a range of other family-friendly activities, including pond dipping, minibeast hunting and seasonal wetland adventures.

Paul Stewart, Centre Manager at WWT Castle Espie, said:
“Mudfest is all about giving families permission to get properly stuck in and have fun together outdoors. It’s messy, playful and a brilliant way for children to connect with nature in a really memorable way. Mud might just look like dirt, but it’s incredibly important. A single cubic metre of estuary mud contains the same calorific value as 16 chocolate bars, showing just how vital wetlands are for wildlife. Mudfesthelps bring that message to life in a fun, creative and hands-on way.”

All Mudfest 2026 activities are included with admission to WWT Castle Espie and are free for WWT members. Families can save 10% on their Mudfest adventure by booking online in advance. For more information and the full What’s On guide, visit:
Castle Espie Wetland Centre | Northern Ireland | WWT | WWT or follow on Facebook and Instagram.