February half term activities at Forestry Commission England sites

If you’re helping out with grandkids this February half-term then have a look at the various Forestry Commission activities to take them to in your motorhome. One of the key characters is the star of book and film, Stick Man. At the various forest sites all the family can explore the trails while looking out for Stick Man themed panels and fun activities along the way, from building a nest to creating your own Stick Man. Purchase a Stick Man child activity pack from the forest for £3, which includes a fun-packed activity leaflet, sheets to create your own Stick Man rubbing and pipe cleaners to make your own Stick Man, a chunky crayon and a pencil. Find your nearest trail on the map at http://www.forestry.gov.uk/stickman#StickManTrails


Westonbirt, The National Arboretum, Gloucestershire

To compliment the Stick Man trail, Westonbirt Arboretum is inviting families to enjoy some crafty fun with sticks and investigate these often overlooked parts of trees. The event is free after admission and will be held on 16, 17 and 18 February, 11.00-16.00 in the learning centre. www.forestry.gov.uk/westonbirt


Dalby Forest, North Yorkshire

Visit the Dalby Space Centre and head out on the self-led trails to discover more about the solar-system and mythology of the planets. For the younger astronauts there’s a chance to build a straw rocket. A small charge will apply for each activity and all children will need to be accompanied by an adult. The event will be held at 10.00 to 16.00 at the Dalby Forest Visitor Centre, Thornton le Dale between Saturday 13 to Sunday 21 February. www.forestry.gov.uk/dalby

Alice Holt Forest, Surrey

Head to the wild learning holiday adventure club this half-term. From the secret camp deep in the woods, there are fun activities such as den building, fire making, tracking and stalking, mud sculptures, environmental art, whittling, forest games, tree climbing, steam dipping and more. Parking charges apply if adults remain on site. No charge for drop off. Bookings available on 16 and 17 February, for more details visit www.wild-learning.net


Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire

Meet with Rachel from ‘ Inspiring Creativity’ and Sarah from ‘A breath of fresh Air’ at Contain-A-Café, Beechenhurst in the Forest of Dean for fun activities based on the popular Stick Man story. Anytime from 10 – 3pm on Tuesday 16 February. Stick Man making, dream catcher creating, storytelling and family tree creations – small charges for each activity or stay all day for £10 per family.

Grizedale Forest, Cumbria

If you are looking for an active day out with your family at Grizedale then come along and take part in some practical conservation in the forest on 17 February. You will be working alongside the rangers using hand tools and helping with tasks, such as rhododendron removal and lopping back laurel to make space for native plants to grow. www.forestry.gov.uk/grizedale


Visit www.forestry.gov.uk to find more half-term activities happening near you.


To make the most of your local woods and forests, the Forestry Commission Discovery Pass covers your parking charges for a year. Visit www.forestry.gov.uk/pass for more information.

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