FAMILIES will have the chance to meet a popular children's book character and take part in a host of budget-friendly activities at Delamere Forest this summer.
To celebrate 25 years of Julia Donaldson's beloved book The Gruffalo, Forestry England has invited the character himself to Delamere to greet his adoring fans.
A free family fun day is being held at the forest on Wednesday, August 7, from 10am until 4pm, where visitors can see the Gruffalo at various points throughout the day.
A Forestry England spokesman said: "With the summer holidays nearly upon us, it's time to plan activities to keep the kids entertained for the next six weeks.
"Forestry England offers lots of fun, low-cost and engaging activities for families to enjoy at Delamere Forest, and this summer there is a real focus on the Gruffalo.
"Best of all, many of these activities are budget-friendly or even free, ensuring all families can join in the fun."
As part of the celebrations, visitors this summer are encouraged to follow the Gruffalo's 25th birthday trail through the forest.
Kids (and big kids alike) can enjoy interactive panels and activities on their journey with the Gruffalo and other characters.
The spokesman added: "Families can work together to find missing party items, while enjoying fun games along the trail and learning how plants and animals care for each other.
"This trail is a delightful and educational experience for Gruffalo fans of all ages."
Visitors can also enjoy some Olympics excitement this summer ahead of the Paris games.
Families can embark on a free quest to find hidden Gruffalo character signs and take on Olympic-inspired challenges on the trail.
All this Gruffalo fun will require fuel and there are many stunning spots across Delamere Forest to settle down for delicious picnic.
To add further fun, visitors can download the free Gruffalo Picnic Party Pack, full of party invites, food ideas and party games.
If picnics aren't your thing, food and drink can be bought from the Delamere Forest Cafe.
Finally, visitors can seek out life-sized wooden sculptures of the Gruffalo and other characters from the book – mouse, owl, fox and snake– for the perfect photo opportunity.
Gruffalo trail packs are £4 each. Parking charges apply for non-members.
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