As we grow older, the demands of work and daily responsibilities often overshadow the importance of play in our lives. Somewhere between childhood and adulthood, we forgot the joy and fun that pure play can bring. But who says play is only for kids?
This summer, the team at Westonbirt, The National Arboretum, is on a mission to ignite the playful spirit within you.
It has been scientifically proven that play is not just a source of relaxation but also fuels our imagination, enhances problem-solving abilities, boosts creativity and energy levels, improves relationships, keeps us young at heart, and ultimately enhances our health and well-being.
What’s even better is that kids can play for free all summer long! So, get the whole family involved and embrace play together, as children enjoy free admission from 22nd July to 3rd September.
Nia Crouch, Westonbirt’s Engagement Manager, expresses her enthusiasm, saying, “No matter your age, we have a playful event and activity for you this summer! Bring the children and join them in running, hopping, skipping, and playing hide-and-seek along our new summer play trail in Silk Wood.
“We encourage everyone to embrace their inner child and have fun. We guarantee that spending time here this summer will make you feel good and bring a smile to your face.”
For families with young children, the new summer play trail in Silk Wood offers a variety of exciting outdoor games to enjoy. Have a good laugh playing a healthy game of hopscotch together, run through the trees playing ’40-40′, or challenge yourselves to find hammocks to climb into, lie down, relax, and connect with the natural world around you.
Teenagers and adults can indulge in time-traveling fun as they attempt to solve clues in the captivating new trail, ‘Escape from the Arboretum’, available later in July. Will you succumb to the passage of time or successfully find your way out of Silk Wood’s historical past?
Throughout the summer holidays, Westonbirt will also host family activity days, providing children with opportunities to connect with nature and experience the benefits of play through creative workshops and activities. From running the distance of the tallest tree to trying the woodland honey taste test, there’s something for everyone.
Let’s not forget that you and your children can also join Zog, the lovable yet clumsy dragon, on a magical forest adventure to win a golden star. Encourage your young dragons to learn about caring for the forest and how the forest can care for them. This family trail, complete with a map and activity pack (available from the shop for £4), follows Zog’s quest for his golden star. Will your child win a star too?
If you’re in the mood for an enchanting evening under the stars, why not pack a picnic and enjoy an outdoor cinema experience? The Luna Cinema returns from 4th to 6th August, offering a fantastic selection of three films: ‘Top Gun: Maverick’, the iconic musical ‘Grease!’, and Steven Spielberg’s ‘Jurassic Park’.
For those seeking a leisurely summer stroll beneath the cooling shade of trees, the popular guided walks in the arboretum will unveil the spectacular floral highlights on display, along with hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
Remember, play is essential for your well-being. Embrace the present moment, let go of inhibitions, and allow your inner child to guide you this summer. Always remember, you’re never too old to play!
