There’s still time to enjoy the summer activities for children at the iconic Ashdown Forest.
Wild Wednesdays and Nature Thursdays are family activity days set on Sussex’s famous Forest, suitable for children aged 5–12 years, to be accompanied by an adult.
Spaces fill fast and Beth Morgan, Head of Engagement and Development, said they are proving popular.
She said: “We still have three weeks left of the school holidays, and where better to come than the glorious Ashdown Forest.
“Both events are run by our Education Team, and we’ve already had some great feedback from the young people who join us.
“Places are limited, so please do book in advance.”
Wild Wednesday events:
12th August: Fangs
Which creature has the sharpest fangs and who uses their teeth to make their homes? We will find out about the deadly bite of foxes and take inspiration from wasp’s jaws to make our own paper.
19th August: Creepers and crawlers
No back bone, no problem. Find out about the mini beasts of the Forest. We will be searching in long grass and trees to find out who lives where!
26th August: Build a camp
Join us to design and build your own den using materials found on the Forest and then test how waterproof your camp is.
Nature Thursday events:
13th August: Bracken
Find out about these ancient plants and join us to take action to help look after the heathland. This is more fun than it sounds! Most suitable for children 7 years and over. Long sleeves and trousers are essential for both adults and children. We will also be making a bracken fossil to take home.
20th August: Toes and talons
Take a look at some different feet and the tracks they leave behind. Follow a trail and make a plaster cast footprint to take home.
27th August: Fur
Fur is essential for keeping warm but offers other benefits too. Explore the sensory world of mammals and discover who has the softest fur… and whose fur would be better not to touch! Make a felt mouse to take home.
Beth said: “These are great opportunities to build your nature knowledge and connect with the wild. There are different topics and activities every session.
“Get ready to have some fun in the outdoors – please come dressed whatever the weather in clothes you don’t mind getting muddy and messy.
“Long sleeves, long trousers and sturdy shoes are required for both children and adults, as these will help protect from stings and scratches.”
Please buy a ticket for each child attending (£10 per child). Parents/guardians are free. Parking is included – you will need to register your car on arrival in the Information Barn at the Forest Centre.
Nature walks take place over uneven ground and may not be easily accessible for all. Please get in touch if you have any questions or need advice. These events are not suitable for dogs.
For enquiries, please contact conservators@ashdownforest.org or call 01342 823583 during office hours (select option 1 for general enquiries).
