FreeAddress Formby Nature Reserve, Freshfield, Formby L37 1LJ. Also in the area Speke Hall Garden And Easte, a rare example of a Tudor manor house with restored Victorian interiors and William Morris wallpaper.

Seasonal I-SpySeptember 15–28Pick up a trail sheet from the garden room at Belton House in Lincolnshire and set off on a nature detective hunt around the gardens of this country house estate. After discovering the autumnal delights of the garden

can discover the creatures that emerge as the sun sets and play fun nature games accompanied by a wildlife expert during this exciting evening adventure.Apple WeekendSeptember 17–18Make the most of the glorious British apple season and pay a visit

. Two days of traditional entertainment will include comedy, music, dance, food and games.Autumn QuizOctober 8–23Become a nature detective in the grounds of Crathes Castle in Banchory with this self-lead autumn quiz trail.  Historic HuntingOctober 10–14

and handcrafted greetings cards.Jam JamboreeOctober 1–2Enjoy the remnants of a late summer glut and bring the whole family along to Plas Newydd Country House And Gardens for a celebration of jam. Work up an appetite exploring the elegant 18th century house

children’s authors and illustrators from both sides of the channel including Quentin Blake, Polly Dunbar and Kitty Crowther.  For more fun family days out see our pick of the best Hallowe'en happenings in London

York Festival Of Food And DrinkSeptember 16–25Foodie families will lap up this week-long calendar of gourmet themed events throughout York. There will be plenty of child-friendly events to get young tastebuds tingling including a chocolate factory

-Factor The chance to wander through lush forestry discovering new, exciting environments will appeal to the young and adventurous amongst your family. Pick up a Naturally Playful trail map and explore the children's trail around the arboretum and look out

The sun is shining (on-and-off!) and school's out for summer, so the timing couldn’t be better for Love Parks Week 2011. From July 23–31 everyone can enjoy the best their local park has to offer with a whole host of outdoor activities up and down

her lost forest friends within this beautiful park and nature reserve.Wildlife quizMarch 31–April 15Easter is the time when  nature really springs back into life. Celebrate the natural beauty of the season by dropping in to Crathes Castle in Banchory