As Easter beckons, and the grey clouds surely give way to blue, what a fantastic time to get outside and explore one of these 5 Sussex Easter walks.
Superworm, Wakehurst, 30th March to 23rd April
Nature and story lovers unite at Wakehurst this Easter with an interactive “Superworm” trail, forged from the imaginations of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. Through this experience, participants will be encountering the super-long invertebrate alongside his insect familiars and will have the opportunity to engage with mini missions for badges and encounter wormery workshops for an authentically mud-appreciative experience! The trail also aims to spark an interest in the essential roles that these creatures have in the overall balance of our ecosystem by providing a medley of information throughout, alongside mid-day storytelling sessions that explore traditional folklore amongst the trees. The trail extends through Wakehurst’s Ornamental Gardens and woodland and, with the whispers of spring becoming ever more vocal, seasonal blooms to look out for include the azaleas and rhododendrons, and keep a special eye out for the Water Gardens! For those working in or retired from the public sector or civil service – teachers, nurses, police, and the like – a Boundless membership is just the thing for you, as it offers unlimited Wakehurst and London Kew access for £35 a year. Additionally, the membership provides 50% off for 1 extra adult ticket and for up to 5 children per visit. For some wormy, family fun, make sure to head down this Easter!
For more details, visit: https://www.kew.org/wakehurst/whats-on/superworm
Shepherd of the Downs, Amberley, early April dates
Amberley Museum has organised an exciting Easter trail around their grounds this April to coincide with the approaching lambing season. The trail aims to explore the Sussex tradition of sheep-rearing while providing a family-friendly countryside experience. If you also fancy a bit of art and crafts to go with your ambling, there are wool-based workshops being held on Wednesdays and Fridays as well as a pop-up pottery station to make clay Easter eggs or bunnies for £2 each. For the days leading up to and overlapping Easter day, their miniature steam engines will also be making an appearance for those interested in the “chugging” models!
For more details, visit: https://www.amberleymuseum.co.uk/whats-on/easter-holiday-activities/
“Hide and Sheep” AR Trail, Horsham, 25th March to 23rd April
Enjoy the woodland encompassing Leonardslee Gardens this spring with their Shaun the Sheep augmented reality trail. A game of hide and “sheep” which offers photo opportunities, crafts, and exploration that mingles the digital world with the natural, head down for a particularly lively family experience. Collect your free activity sheet from reception, download the app, and have a go at the challenges – rewards are available for diligent individuals! If you find yourself there on 2nd April, you could also get involved with their Shaun model-making workshop. Book ahead to ensure your spot!
For more details, visit: https://www.leonardsleegardens.co.uk/all-events/shaun-the-sheep
Duck Detectives, Arundel, 1st to 16th April
Discover the wonderful Wetlands at Arundel this Easter with their seasonal trail full of family fun and opportunities to reveal one or two wildlife secrets. Their free “Duck Detective” trail, which is spread out amongst their stunning countryside and wetland area, provides a hunt for clues, footprints, and feathers. Sharpen those senses for a chance to achieve true detective status. For those wishing to literally dive into their Wetland encounter, why not also get stuck into some family pond-dipping sessions or try and spot some of the more elusive wildlife during the Wetland Boat Safari?
For more on this opportunity, visit: https://www.wwt.org.uk/wetland-centres/arundel/whats-on/duck-detectives-2
Foraging Trail, Streat – hurry, it’s on the 1st April
The Artelium Wine Estate near Plumpton Green has partnered with Rewilding Us this spring for a bubbly and remedial foraging experience. With a morning full of guided wild foraging and food and wine tasting, you will have the chance to explore the scenic woodlands and vineyards spilling through the estate. With spring just around the corner, you may stumble across elderflowers, nettles, or wild garlic to fill your baskets and supplement your lunch once you’ve trekked your way around. Retire to the Tasting Room once you’ve wandered your fill and wind down with some refreshments and your delicious, fresh bounty!
For more details, visit: https://www.southdowns.gov.uk/
