Follow a new trail inspired by The Wind in the Willows at Harrogate's RHS Harlow Carr
The Royal Horticultural Society and Farshore, part of HarperCollins Publishers, are teaming up to celebrate the 95th anniversary of EH Shepard’s illustrations for Kenneth Grahame’s classic The Wind in the Willows with interactive children’s trails around all five of the society’s gardens.
The event includes RHS Harlow Carr, Harrogate, and runs from February 14 throughout the year.
A selection of the illustrations will feature in The Wind in the Willows: A Garden Adventure, made up of a host of activities featuring favourite characters Mole, Ratty, Toad, and Badger.
The Harlow Carr trail will explore the gardens’ most iconic sights and bring plenty of storybook magic.
The partnership aligns with the RHS’s biodiversity theme, using the rich, nature-based world of The Wind in the Willows to spark curiosity about wildlife, habitats, and the importance of protecting the natural environment.
The collaboration comes as the illustrations hit a landmark 95 years since their first release, and the 50th anniversary of EH Shepard’s death.
Around the spectacular gardens, the young and young at heart can discover sensory boxes, traditional garden games, photo opportunities and plenty of outdoor fun to follow The Wind in the Willows story.
Elin Simonsson, head of public engagement at the RHS, said: “We are delighted to celebrate the 95th anniversary of EH Shepard’s much-loved The Wind in the Willows illustrations across our five RHS Gardens and are excited to share the trail with visitors of all ages.
“The celebration of nature, the great outdoors, and fun with friends aligns with our philosophy of championing children's joy in nature and encouraging children to explore and discover wildlife in our gardens, the perfect settings for the adventures of Mole, Ratty, Toad, and Badger.”
Cally Poplak, managing director of HarperCollins Children’s Books and Farshore, said: “The RHS trails are a joyful way to celebrate with families the 95th anniversary of EH Shepard’s original illustrations for The Wind in the Willows. This feels especially timely with the National Year of Reading in 2026, when families will be encouraged to follow their passions, be it playing about on riverbanks or spotting wildlife – then cuddle up with a book.”
Trustees of the Shepard Trust said: "We are so pleased that the RHS and Farshore are bringing EH Shepard’s iconic The Wind in the Willows illustrations to life through these wonderful trails.
“Shepard's artistry continues to enchant across generations whilst inspiring appreciation for the natural world and the enduring power of storytelling."
The trails are included with entry to the RHS Gardens and will be available to purchase online and at all gardens.