Spring into action!
With a new season waiting in the wings, these local outings promise fun for all the family – whether you’re celebrating Mother’s Day or planning ahead for Easter
1. Cambridge University Botanic Garden
The Botanic Garden at this time of year is a springtime spectacular. Up until 24 March, families can embark on the self-led Crazy Cone Caper trail – a whodunnit mystery to track down who’s stealing seeds from the garden’s pinecones.
Also featured is a Family Saturdays programme, with free activities aimed at children over the age of three between 10am and 1pm, including plant and wildlife-themed crafts with magnets.
Reserve your place at least one week in advance over at botanic.cam.ac.uk/whats-on
For some Easter-themed activities, join in with The Lost Eggs Easter Trail between 28 March and 14 April, where visitors must hunt down butterfly’s lost eggs by following the clues.
2. Thriplow Daffodil Weekend & Country Fair
A celebrated local tradition for the past 50 years, the Thriplow Daffodil Weekend takes place on 16 and 17 March.
Visitors can expect a host of fun activities for all the family, including live music, morris dancing and a blacksmith demonstration in the village’s smithy.
Plenty of delicious refreshments are also available at Taste of Thriplow, where you can choose between street food, beer and plenty of hot drinks as well as homemade cake at the Village Tearooms.
This event manages to raise thousands of pounds for essential local charities that do tremendous work.
Due to the small size of the village, numbers are limited to advance online sales. Book now at thriplowdaffodils.org.uk
3. Huntingdon Racecourse
Those seeking an exciting family jaunt this Easter Monday need look no further than the Easter Countryside Raceday at Huntingdon Racecourse.
Aside from a host of racing fixtures, including hurdle races and steeplechases, the fun gets underway with the much-loved Shetland Pony Race.
Visitors can also enjoy up-close experiences with both furry and feathered friends, including Suffolk Punches and birds of prey, as well as exploring the Easter Egg Trail.
Find out more and book your tickets at thejockeyclub.co.uk
4. Féte du Printemps, The Boule-In
Celebrate with French flair at the Boule-In Spring Fête in Bildeston, Suffolk from 23 March to 1 April, excluding Easter Sunday.
“We want our customers and friends to feel transported to the magic of Provence,” says owner Cathy Bullen.
The fête combines the rural charm of Suffolk with the cultural richness of France.
Alongside French market-inspired shopping, there will be an array of gourmet delights such as coffee and artisanal cakes, plus live accordion performances to immerse yourself in la vie française.
5. Cambridge Flower School
The Cambridge Flower School has several new workshops, perfect for some quality creative time with a loved one.
A special workshop held on the Saturday before Mothering Sunday offers a masterclass in creating a beautiful bouquet for someone special.
Using a host of provided materials, attendees will walk away with a unique creation to take home and enjoy.
There will also be a spring wreath workshop on 23 March with a discount incentive of 10% when two or more places are booked. Over-16s only.
Find out more at thecambridgeflowerschool.co.uk
6. Anglesey Abbey
This Easter half-term, journey along the nature trail at Anglesey Abbey.
The route is packed with fun activities, including egg-and-spoon races, welly wanging and a giant birdbox to explore!
The trail is open from 29 March to 14 April and doesn’t need to be booked in advance.
Admission is £3 and includes a pair of decorative bunny ears, your choice of chocolate egg and an Easter trail sheet to record your quest.
Enjoy!
7. Wimple Estate
The Easter Egg Hunt at Wimpole Estate takes you along a trail brimming with activities inspired by the wilderness.
Hop like a bunny, wibble-wobble like a lamb or build a home for nature.
The trail follows a fresh route, set against the stunning backdrop of the mansion house and carving through the scenic gardens.
National Trust admission will apply, plus £3 for your trail pack.