When can we have our party?

Weekends or possibly after school. We can run at most a couple of parties each month, so please make enquiries as early as possible.

Contact

Elaine Corke on 01 799 599 643
or email info@walden-countryside.co.uk

What kind of activities will there be?

We’re happy to discuss ideas with parents, but our aim is to offer kids the chance to develop outdoor skills and experience nature activities. We can supply food for campfire cooking (sausages, potatoes, self-harvested nettles!) and the services of two party organisers. As well as building a fire, cooking on it (and eating), choose from: pond dipping, bug hunting, nature scavenger race, den building, running around games, nature craft activities, storytelling (younger kids)/puppet workshop (older kids).

What else do I need to know?

• Age range: 6 -12 years.

• Between 6 and 16 kids per party.

• Cost: £180 for up to 10 children, then £12 per child up to a maximum of 16. Parties last for up to three hours at a time to suit you and your children. We supply food for camp-fire cooking and the services of two party organisers.

• Children must come dressed for romping in the undergrowth: strong shoes, preferably trousers and long sleeves, jumpers and waterproofs if the weather is likely to be cold or wet. No party dresses!

What's not included?

• Food and drink for any parents who are staying.

• Food for children with special dietary requirements – we’re happy to cook it if you bring an alternative (please discuss this with us in advance).

• Birthday cake/party bags – but you are welcome to bring these with you.

Any rules?

The reserve is mainly managed for the benefit of wildlife and we avoid doing anything that would damage their habitats or cause them harm. So no balloons or sky lanterns.

What if the weather is awful?

If there is heavy rain, parents have the option of cancelling at least an hour ahead and getting a booking on another day at no extra cost, or going on regardless.

Erm, is there a loo?

We have a composting toilet for essential use; but hope youngsters (at least the boys) will prefer a wild-wee.

Who are the organisers?

The staff running the party are conservation volunteers. They are all DBS checked, know the geography and wildlife of Noakes Grove well and are experienced with teaching natural history to children.

What do we do with your money?

The price includes VAT, which we have to pay, and the cost of insurance. After our expenses, it will all be used to help maintain the nature reserve.