Get up off the sofa and...

This summer, National Trust properties like The Vyne in Hampshire are offering free entry to children, giving families a great incentive to get off the sofa, get outdoors and enjoy glorious countryside locations, as well as hundreds of events and activities. Children can also use the downloadable ‘Kids go Free’ voucher to try out some of the Trust’s 50 Things to do Before You’re 11¾ challenges, such as tree climbing. Visit the 50 Things interactive website for a full checklist, games, rewards and top tips on subjects such as building a den and animal tracking.
The ‘50 Things To Do Before You’re 11¾’ campaign has been launched by the National Trust in response to research that fewer than one in ten children regularly play in wild places compared to half a generation ago, a third have never climbed a tree, and one in ten can’t ride a bike.
This weekend's outdoor activities at The Vyne, Sherbourne St John, are:
Tomorrow (Friday), 9 – 11.30pm: Moths by Moonlight: moth numbers have declined rapidly in recent years, but at countryside locations like The Vyne are still great places to spot them. Contrary to popular opinion, many moths are as spectacular in appearance as butterflies, so join the Head Warden on an evening foray into the silent world of these beautiful creatures. Booking essential on 01256 883858, adults £5, children £3.
Saturday. 11am - 5pm, The Great Tree Climb: the Great Big Tree Climb comes to The Vyne. Learn how to climb one of the estate’s larger trees using ropes, knots and clips. Try the fast route back down on a zip wire, or swing through the trees on the Leap of Faith pulley system. Tree climb £12.50 (£6 for zip wire or leap of faith only).
Sunday, 11am - 5pm, Geocaching: welcome to the exciting world of geocaching, and celebrate the official launch of The Vyne's first (and free) geocaching course. The concept, which takes its cue from pirates and their habit of hiding treasure, aims to seek out hidden ‘treasure’ (known as caches) using modern technology in the form of GSP devices. Set out on an adventure through the grounds using your GPS map and clues to find the caches.This family activity day includes goodie bags and giveaways from geocaching specialists Garmin. Drop in sessions, last slot starts 3pm. Meet at visitor car park.
Location: The Vyne, Sherborne St John, Basingstoke RG24 9HL, 01256 883858