Its Friday again, hurrah, but what outdoor events can we tempt you outside with this weekend. Let’s see what I have found. And remember if you attend any of the events, or have an event of your own, let us know and I will get it into a future blog entry.

Why not take a picnic to the woods this weekend and help celebrate the 15th birthday of The Gruffalo. This children’s favourite is having not one but fifteen sculptures of himself unveiled at Forestry Commission sites across the country, from Delamere Forest in Cheshire to Haldon Forest Park near Exeter, so see where the man himself will be making an appearance, and have him guide you on a walk in the woods.

Butterfly Education and Awareness Day takes place on the 7th June and the Butterfly Association want you to get involved to raise awareness of how important they are as pollinators. So why not get together with a group of friends and find out all you can about the life cycle of the butterfly, or learn how to say butterfly in other languages, or find out what plants they really like and see whether you are able to plant a couple in the garden to attract them. So lots of ideas to learn about butterflies, so why not see what you can find out.

If you find yourself in Suffolk this weekend, why not go to Minsmere reserve, where they are running a free binocular and telescope demonstration, to help you choose what will help you enjoy nature better by getting it that bit closer to you. The event is on both Saturday and Sunday, and there is lots to see, who knows you might even spot one of the Springwatch team who are there at the moment filming.

If you find yourself at The Steyning Festival this weekend, why not sign up for the guided walk around Chactonbury Ring. This iconic local landmark lies on top of The South Downs, and as you walk you will hear all about the history of the hill, the trees and the legends that are associated with it from a very knowledgeable local historian. This particular walk even offers the opportunity to wet your whistle at a local hostelry, so a reward at the end of the walk too, bonus!

Alternatively you could head down to the Church Stretton Walking Festival this weekend. It features walks of varying length and difficulty, suitable for all members of the family and different levels of ability. They vary between about six miles up to thirteen miles. Each walk is being lead by two experienced guides, including local National Trust staff, so local knowledge won’t be a problem. Unfortunately, dogs are not allowed on the walks, but at least you can get some exercise.

So once again a variety of outdoor events across the country and another chance for you and the family to get out and about, although with the weather forecast I would recommend making sure you have your waterproofs handy