Moors Valley Country Park and Forest is celebrating its 30th birthday this year and with new family attractions and some very special events there has never been a better time to visit.
The park, which recently won a prestigious Gold award at the South West Tourism Excellence Awards, has something to offer all ages. It offers safe, adventurous play for children and is perfect for a family day out with its year-round events programme but with 1000 acres of forest to explore there’s always something new to discover for adults as well.
The 30th anniversary celebrations have started in style with the opening of two new attractions.
The Highway Rat Activity Trail is inspired by author and illustrator duo Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s children’s story which was premiered on the BBC last Christmas. Brought to life in the Moors Valley forest setting thanks to a partnership between the Forestry Commission and Magic Light Pictures, visitors to the woodland trail follow in the footsteps of the mischievous rodent intent on swiping the sweet treats of every forest creature he meets. The family fun can be extended by buying a £3 highway saddle bag, which includes a Highway Rat mask and activities to enjoy along the route.
Standing proud on the play trail, the stunning new Hawkhouse is huge, reaching over five metres into the sky, with wings extending to over 18 metres wide. Created by Hampshire artist Andy Frost and his team, Hawkhouse was inspired by the Harris hawks flown at Moors Valley. The play sculpture really captures the imagination making a dramatic addition to the two-mile play trail.
Also new to the park are some new friends to join the giant sculptures of The Gruffalo and The Gruffalo’s Child in the deep dark wood. Loved by children across the world, sculptures of mouse, fox, owl, snake and squirrel have been crafted to match Alex Scheffler’s wonderful drawings, completing Julia Donaldson’s magical story of The Gruffalo and providing wonderful opportunities for imaginative outdoor play.
More events at Moors Valley will be announced later in the year adding to the park’s full range of fun seasonal family events, exhibition programme and adult activities. Full details and booking instructions can be found at:
