Kids in Gloucester and surrounding areas have a fantastic brand new Julia Donaldson trail to explore at Beechenhurst in the Forest of Dean.
While navigating their fun route, they can look out for Superworm and other wriggly creatures appearing on the track. This trail is similar to the Gruffalo trail but longer and a bit steeper with a sharp little hill. It’s around 2km in total and is similar in the sense that the kids get exercise and, at the same time, it proves an excellent learning opportunity about the forest’s insects and other creatures.
Perfect for ages three to nine
Rangers at Beechenhurst reckon the walk should take around one hour to complete. It is great for anyone interested in insects, but it’s ideal for little ones aged three to nine.
The kids will be able to marvel at the abilities of beetle, toad, Wizard Lizard and other tiny creatures which appear in the book of the much-lauded author.
They’ll also be asked stimulating questions when they encounter picture boards en route, helping them to learn more about insects and their role in our landscape. Trail packs of creature fact cards, stickers, and at-home activity sheets with pencils and crayons are available to assist them with their learning. There’s also a mask with which little ones can impersonate the odd worm or two. The Superworm pack is available from Beechenhurst Café for £3.50.
The follow-up to BBC Superworm animation
The self-led trail is actually a follow-up to the Superworm special animation on BBC One on Christmas Day last year. It’s brought to you via Forestry England and Magic Light Pictures.
The route starts at the Beechenhurst Visitor Centre, where little explorers can easily follow the trail signs. You’ll also spot the cycle trail, which can be attempted when you return to the Forest of Dean another day. Mums and dads will be pleased to hear that the route is accessible for both buggies and wheelchairs.
Learning the roles of ‘critters’ in our woodlands
Emily Fergusson, Forest of Dean ranger for Forestry England, described the trail as the perfect spring or summer day out.
@ForestryEngland: ‘This is such a fun trail that offers children the chance to become a hero of the forest, just like the much-loved and heroic creatures within the Superworm story. You’ll get to learn about our minibeasts and the important jobs they do for the nation’s forests.”
Parents are encouraged to make time to explore other areas of the forest after their walk, including a visit to the impressive Forest of Dean sculpture trail.
Opening times at the Forest of Dean
The site is open daily, from 8am (except Christmas Day). It’s open until 9pm from May to August, 7.30pm in September and to 6.30pm in October. The trail – and Forest in general – tends to be quieter before 10am and after 4pm. It gets busy at weekends, so weekdays are often better to come too for a more relaxed experience.
