Egg rollingEach player has a hard-boiled egg identified by its colour, decoration or a felt-tip-penned initial (decorating can be another day’s activity). Then, to play, just stand at the top of a hill and roll. The fastest to the bottom

1. Selecting seedsDespite the best efforts of Popeye most young children still seem to have an innate aversion to bitter leafy vegetables such as spinach, and probably won’t be particularly enthused about the idea of growing them. Focus instead

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

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

with music and children’s entertainment throughout the afternoon.Michaelmass MerrimentOctober 1,2Head to Stirling Castle to join the young Mary Queen Of Scots in her celebration of Michaelmass, the medieval feast day celebrating the collection of the Harvest

The Battle Of HastingsSeptember 15–16Soak up the atmosphere of a medieval battlefield as the infamous Battle Of Hastings is re-enacted before your very eyes at Hasting Abbey. This afternoon of historical hi-jinx will also include a Norman cavalry

harvest whilst everyone enjoys locally sourced homemade soup and refreshments.The Alternative Village FeteOctober 15,16Join in a very different type of village gathering this autumn at Tattershall Castle in Lincolnshire as part of the National Trust's Dark

Autumn is the perfect time to get outside and into the woods, which are full of activities and adventures. 1. Find your own foodAutumn is a great time for taking the kids out foraging – and there’s nothing better than eating fruits and berries

the new harvest and fill your basket with delicious local produce whilst children can join in a variety of fun, fruity games and activities. Let’s Get PhysicalSeptember 25Spice up the chilly autumn season with a lick of Latin flavour at these free dance

Nature Adventures by Mick Manning and Brita Granström (£7.99, Frances Lincoln)A finely detailed guide to the natural life that can be found in various habitats from town to country. The evocative illustrations and comprehensive listings of various flora and fauna make this an abs...