It’s Friday and the weekend is here but with weather warnings for certain areas of the country will it be a washout? I hope not as I want to get outside and get some fresh air into my lungs. So wherever you are in the country be aware of the weather warnings that are in place but make sure you still enjoy what the great outdoors can offer.

The Antrim Hills Walking Festival begins this weekend and as always is organised by Larne Borough Council. Each year the event is based in different locations within the Antrim Hills so there is always something new to experience. The aim is to cater for all ages and abilities with a great mix easy, moderate and challenging walks that let you experience the magnificent scenery on offer.

For the more literary amongst you why not visit the home of Cranford author Elisabeth Gaskell which is opening its doors to the public on Sunday after a £2.65 million refurbishment which has returned it to the style of the writer’s era. The 19th Century villa had fallen into disrepair after it was used as a student hall of residence. But is now back to its former glory and well worth the trip into Manchester.

Alternatively the Stone Food and Drink Festival takes place this weekend. This is the tenth year this has taken place and brings together the very best in local produce from all over Staffordshire. Friday and Saturday will see the marvellous High Street Farmers Market being held where you will find everything from fresh fruit and veg to meat, poultry, game preserves and much more. In the main festival area, as well as demonstration and talks there is the chance to go round the funfair and there is plenty of treats to choose from, whether it is savoury or sweet you will find lots to choose from here, and to wash it down there is the famous, or should that be infamous, Beer tent.

So there is still plenty to do this weekend but to be on the safe side make sure you pack  your waterproofs, be safe and enjoy.