21st February 2023

Are we nearly there yet?

If you’ve got your hands full entertaining offspring or grandchildren over the next few weeks we thought we could share a few ideas to keep them entertained.

Stones Throw
A favourite walk close to home we discovered a couple of years ago is Nunsbrough at Ordley which is taken care of by The Woodland Trust. The twists and turns of Devil’s Water adds lots of drama to this secluded woodland which is dominated by mature oak and ash. What makes it extra special is the large riverside meadow home to wildflowers including scented meadow sweet lady’s smock and lady’s mantle. My boys enjoy throwing stones under the metal footbridge and getting wet feet of course.

 

Oh I do like…
We were pleasantly surprised recently on a trip to Whitley Bay to see a bob of grey seals at St Mary’s Lighthouse. The best views are to be had from the lighthouse (and with no danger of the kids disturbing the seals lounging on the rocks) Try discovering how many types of seaweed you can find and press them when you get home.

 

Sow and grow
Weird plants always goes down well when growing with young gardeners. Try edible flowers, or unusually coloured or shaped veg. We have a wonderful selection of seeds from Piccolo which are beautiful packaged and easy to grow. They give you detailed sowing instructions and ideas for companion planting. The range includes unusual fruits, Pollinators’ Flower Seeds and some edible varieties.

 

Forest antics
Experience the magic of opera, storytelling and music on a forest adventure where a Vixen meets a Fox. The Cunning Little Vixen is led by a cast of professional opera singers and musicians. Based on the music and story of Janáček’s opera
Little Listeners: Mini Vixen, Allendale Village Hall, Hexham
Saturday 18th March 2023, 4pm – 5:15pm