Beach fun for the kids

Following a popular programme of activities last year, the National Trust rangers in East Devon are once again running free family activities each Wednesdays of the summer holiday at Branscombe. With an extended list of events, including kite making and den building, Wild Wednesdays looks set to be even more successful than last year.

Ranger Ruby Cole explained: ‘Last year some families came to all of our Wild Wednesdays and, for that reason we’ve added new activities, including a big wild sleep-out which I’m particularly excited about. It will include a supper around a campfire followed by a night time nature walk and star gazing.’

Head ranger Peter Blyth added: ‘Getting children outdoors and closer to nature is a key aim of the National Trust and it’s a wonderful way to encourage environmental awareness through the exploration of the natural world.’

Each Wednesday a different ’50 things to do before you’re 11¾’ will be ticked off, and all children who attend will receive a ’50 things’ scrapbook with lots of ideas for free outdoor fun. Activities on the beach will include kite flying and rock-pooling; while bug hunting and stream dipping will be held further upstream in the orchard near the Old Bakery, the perfect spot for families to enjoy a cream tea after the event.

Last year Emily White made a splash whilst stream dipping, commenting that it was: ‘Great, fab and really fun catching the things in the river. I loved it.’

Events are free and booking is only required for the weekend sleep-out event.