Rangers spread Christmas cheer across Warwickshire Country Parks

Countryside rangers have been busy preparing a packed programme of activities for the winter months, with a feast of Christmassy events guaranteed to get the whole family into the festive spirit.

On top of the regular school visits organised by Education, Health and Community Rangers at both Ryton Pools Country Park and Kingsbury Water Park, the team have scheduled a variety of fun and educational festive activities.

For the eco-conscious looking to add a touch of Christmas to their homes, the ‘Rustic Reindeer’ workshops at Kingsbury Water Park are one to look out for. During November and December, rangers will help visitors through the process of making a wooden reindeer, full of character, that can sit proudly in the garden or home.

On Saturday 10 December, children can come along to Kingsbury to learn how to design and build a woodland shelter that’s camouflaged, big enough for their team and waterproof(ish!), as the popular den-building event returns.

 At Ryton Pools Country Park children can take part in a ‘Fairy Merry Christmas’, in which they’ll decorate their own willow Christmas stars and help the fairies hunt for their missing decorations. Once the decorations are found, youngsters can help decorate the fairy Christmas tree and enjoy toasted marshmallows around the fairy fire.

 Again at Ryton Pools, those with an artistic persuasion might jump at the opportunity to create their own Christmas wreath. With all natural materials provided, visitors are free to bring along other decorations of their choice to add a more personal touch. These friendly, informal events are a great way to get that festive feeling ignited, especially with mulled juice and mince pies included.

Starting on 3 December, over weekends and throughout school holidays young visitors will be able to take part in the Christmas Cooky mystery trail at both Kingsbury and Ryton Pools. Trails have proved immensely popular in the past, offering great value entertainment with trail sheets costing just £2.

With all events requiring prior booking, rangers are urging those wishing to join in with the festivities to book their place quickly, as tickets are limited and are expected sell out quickly. Tickets are available now via the Warwickshire Country Parks Eventbrite page.

For more information about Warwickshire’s Country Parks, visit: www.countryparks.warwickshire.gov.uk