Enjoy the great outdoors in East Devon this Easter
Looking for fun and interesting things to do for all the family over the Easter holidays?
East Devon District Council’s Countryside team will be offering its usual selection of enjoyable and informative events on nature reserves across the district.
Everyone is invited along to the Reptile Rambles, at Fire Beacon Hill near Sidmouth on Tuesday 8 April and at Trinity Hill Local Nature Reserve near Axminster on Tuesday 15 April from 9am to 11am.
Heathland is a key habitat for our native reptiles, and a (hopefully) sunny day in early spring is a great time of year for spotting some of our native lizards and snakes, as they emerge with the start of the warmer weather. Booking is essential for the Reptile Rambles (see details below) as places are limited. There is no charge, but donations are welcome.
Meet the birds
If you would like to develop your bird watching skills, then Meet the Birds is for you. Our experienced Guide in the Hide will be there on Thursday 10 April to help you look for and identify the birds on the Axe Estuary Wetlands near Seaton. Binoculars and telescopes are available free of charge for use in the hide during the session. It’s free – just drop in between 10am and 12noon. The notice on the gate between the Wetlands car park and the Information Centre will let you know if the session is in the Tower or Island hide.
On Monday 14 April between 10am and 3pm there’s a chance to learn outdoor skills such as shelter building, campfire cooking and woodland crafts at our Woodland Adventure Day in Holyford Woods near Colyford. Join the Education Ranger for an exciting hands-on day in the open air. Booking is essential as places are limited, and the cost is £5 per person.
An Easter Egg Challenge takes place on the Axe Estuary Wetlands on Thursday 17 April between 10am and 1pm. The morning of Easter activities will include a self-led egg trail as well as eggy crafts and challenges. No need to book – just drop in. Entry is free, but there will be a small charge to cover materials for craft activities and for the trail sheet.
Dawn chorus
Finally, for the early risers, the Dawn Chorus Walk at the Axe Estuary Wetlands at 5.30am on Saturday 19 April promises one of the most special experiences in nature. You will be amazed by the depth and complexity of the beautiful birdsong - well worth the early morning alarm call. If conditions are right, the Axe Estuary Ringing Group will be demonstrating bird ringing – a fantastic chance for you to see wild birds up close. Bacon butties will be available at the end of the walk for a small charge.
Booking is essential as the event is weather dependent. The event is free, but donations are welcome.
To book, or for more information and directions, call the EDDC Countryside team on 01395 517557 or email Countryside@eastdevon.gov.uk
