Bogtastic Family Fun Day

Bogs are fantastic! Delve into the amazing bogs and beautiful habitats of the Peak District National Park at the Bogtastic Family Fun Day on Wednesday 16 August, 10.30am to 3.30pm.

Get under the surface of amazing places, come face to face with native birds of prey, take part in a mini-beast safari, wang a welly on the Eastern Moors, sit in a tractor, get messy in the mud kitchen, animal face painting, find out about wildlife surveying and much more. There will be lots of fun things to do and discover for all ages.

The event takes place in the grounds of the Moorland Discovery Centre on the Longshaw Estate. It will show people in a hands on and fun way how precious moorland and bog habitats are for some of Britain’s unusual wildlife such as curlew, adders and bees, as well as helping to combat climate change.

Raptor Rescue will bring their native birds of prey for people to get close up to. There will be face painting, Buxton museum’s hidden treasures, chance to learn about bumble bees with Pollinating the Peak, a Bogtastic safari and a look at the science behind protecting moorlands with the Moors for the Future Partnership.

The free Bogtastic safari shuttle bus will take people off into the heart of the Eastern Moors, where there will be opportunities to try bog bouncing, stream dipping for freshwater minibeasts, how-deep-is-your peat tests and moorland wildlife spotting.

There will be a BBQ and refreshments for sale.

The event is led by the Eastern Moors Partnership, National Trust and Peak District National Park, who come together to share their passion for nature and the Peak District Moors.

Rachael Lyon, moorland discovery learning officer for the Peak District National Park, said: “Moorlands are amazing and exciting places to explore. They are home to some strange and unusual plants and animals. Many people might be unaware of the wealth of life our bogs and moorland support. Bogtastic is a great event to get to know some of Great Britain’s least know wildlife and explore an iconic part of the British landscape.”

Focusing on moorland biodiversity, the event will introduce these remarkable uplands to people who may, up until now, have driven past without a second glance. The Longshaw Estate, Eastern Moors and nearby Burbage moors are some of the Peak District’s most accessible uplands, providing for cycling, horse riding, walking, fell running and on the edges, climbing and bouldering.

Chris Robinson, learning and discovery officer for the Peak District National Park, said: “Moorlands have never been more important, not just for wildlife and biodiversity but for people too; they provide space to relax and explore in an ever hectic urban world. They act as huge carbon stores and their well-being is paramount in storing water and carbon to mitigate the effects of climate change. They truly are Bogtastic!”

Bogtastic on Wednesday 16 August will run from 10.30am until 3.30pm, based at the Moorland Discovery Centre, Longshaw Estate (opposite Fox House Inn). The cost is £4 per person. No need to book, just turn up on the day. To find out more call 01433 637907 or email mdc@peakdistrict.gov.uk.

Visitors should wear appropriate outdoor clothing for the weather, and if joining the Bogtastic Safari, long trousers, closed-toe sturdy boots/shoes are recommended. Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult.