No need for an ark at The National Forest Wood Fair

Everyone has been disappointed this year by the vast amount of rain bucketing down and cancelling many of those looked-forward to happy summer events. But do not fear – at The National Forest Wood Fair on Bank Holiday Monday 27 August they will be hanging onto their hurdle making, wielding their chain saws, paddling coracles, whittling wood and bodging - all to encourage everyone to have a great time.

Over 70 demonstrators and stall holders will be setting up camp on the beautiful hill side setting of Beacon Hill Country Park in The National Forest near Loughborough in Leicestershire. Sunshine cannot be guaranteed but it will definitely not be flooded out! And the thousands of visitors who enjoyed last year’s Wood Fair will not be disappointed if they repeat their visit.

Rangers from Conkers Discovery Centre will be running arts and crafts activities for children. Anyone can have a go at the supervised tree climbing. And all can watch the heavy horses hauling timber from the woodland, enjoy fascinating woodland craft demonstrations and taste the tempting variety of delicious locally sourced food and drink.

Hugh Williams for the National Forest Company said: “The Wood Fair is set to be a great day out. After a washed out summer we are making it bigger and better and everyone should really enjoy themselves. The site is high above the surrounding countryside, with magnificent views over the growing National Forest. The Wood Fair is a fantastic opportunity for people to find out how the Forest is being created, and what it means for people’s jobs and tourism to the area. And it’s a chance to see some of the very beautiful things that can be made and constructed from the timber itself.”

The Wood Fair is organised by the National Forest Company and Leicestershire County Council, and will run on Bank Holiday Monday 27 August, from 10am - 5pm. Admission charges include car parking and a programme and will cost adults £6, concessions £4 and a family ticket £14 (for two adults and two children).

Beacon Hill Country Park lies within the ancient Forest of Charnwood and is close to the attractive village of Woodhouse Eaves, just five minutes drive from Junctions 22 or 23 of the M1. The Country Park, owned and managed by Leicestershire County Council, with its craggy summit and panoramic views, is just one of the many visitor attractions across the three counties that make up The National Forest.

For more information, visit NationalForest.org.