Children can become a hero of the forest when the brand-new Superworm trail launches at Beechenhurst on Saturday 15 January 2022, shining a spotlight on the woodland’s wriggly workers and marvellous minibeast population.
Based on the popular children’s book from the creator of The Gruffalo, the trail brings Julia Donaldson’s small but mighty creatures to life in the Forest of Dean, celebrating the incredible abilities of critters like toad, beetle and Wizard Lizard.
This new family attraction is the latest collaboration between Forestry England and Magic Light Pictures, following on from the animated Superworm special, which little ones may have seen on BBC One on Christmas Day 2021.
Family explorers are invited to join Superworm and his friends on an all-new adventure, spotting vibrant illustrated panels along the self-led trail – each packed with stimulating activities and questions to get youngsters thinking about minibeasts and the important role they play in the nation’s woods and forests.
A trail pack full of additional activities – including stickers, creature fact cards, an at-home activity sheet and even a special superhero mask to wear – is available to purchase from Beechenhurst Café for £3.50.
Starting at the visitor centre, the trail takes approximately an hour to complete, leaving plenty of time for forest fun at Beechenhurst – with the spellbinding Forest of Dean Sculpture Trail to discover and access to the family cycle trail, too.
Suitable for all ages, but particularly enjoyable for children aged three to nine, the trail is also wheelchair-accessible and buggy-friendly, promising fun for the whole family.
Emily Fergusson, Forest of Dean ranger for Forestry England, said: ‘This is such a fun trail that offers children the chance to become a hero of the forest, just like the much-loved and heroic creatures within the Superworm story. You’ll get to learn about our minibeasts and the important jobs they do for the nation’s forests. It’s the perfect winter’s day out.’
Please note, it’s important that visitors follow social distancing guidelines along the trail, keeping two metres apart from other groups where possible.
For more information, visit forestryengland.uk/beechenhurst/superworm.
