Broads hosts country park picnic in city haven

People will be treated to a day of fun and entertainment at the weekend when they are invited to a country picnic on the fringe of the city to celebrate the Broads status as part of the National Park family.

Sunday sees the Broads Authority’s annual free Picnic in the Park which will this year be held next to the flint barn at Whitlingham with entertainment from two local bands as well as a variety of stalls and activities.

Whitlingham Country Park sits at the gateway to the Broads but its location close to the city and transport links makes it easily accessible.

Everyone is invited to bring their picnics along from 11am to 4pm to herald the start of National Parks Week which runs from Monday 29 July until Sunday 4 August under the theme ‘Actively Yours’ to encourage people to get outside and make the most of their national parks.

Music will be provided by Mammal Hands and Hard Rain while activities include face painting, circus skills and outdoor games, archery, canoeing, pot throwing, woodcraft activities, portapond dipping, children’s crafts, badge making and boat trips. Most of these will be free but there will be charges for some of the bigger activities.

There will be stands from the RSPB, RSPCA and Fairhaven Gardens as well as the Broads Authority, local councils, charities and businesses.

Nick Sanderson, Broads Authority Education Officer, said: “It will be a great day out for families, visitors and local people with a huge variety of things to do as well as entertainment and the chance to learn more about the Broads as Britain’s magical waterland and a member of the National Park family.

“The event has been really successful in past years and the good weather is set to continue so I’d really recommend everyone takes advantage of this great day out.”
Minister for the Environment, Richard Benyon, said: “National Parks Week is a wonderful way of reminding us what we have on our doorsteps, and I hope that as many people as possible take the opportunity to visit their nearest park and enjoy the beautiful scenery and activities on offer.”