The Festival of Wildlife weekend recently returned to The Walled Gardens of Cannington, to celebrate the work of the Somerset Wildlife Trust. Over 600 visitors attended the free event.

There were lots of activities and games to find out more about wildlife and nature as well as ways to get involved with nature conservation, including rock pooling events on the coast and volunteering on wild flower meadows. Visitor, Natasha Bond said,

“We had lots of fun finding a leaf with teeth, digging in the sand and playing jump the frog. Lovely event.”

Visitor Laura Watts said,

“I have had the pleasure of visiting the Gardens twice in one week. On Thursday the staff made us feel very welcome in the shop and a lovely lady working on the fruit and vegetable section went out of her way to show my little girl where the strawberries were growing. The grounds are as stunning as ever and we enjoyed an ice cream from the Tea Room!

“On our second visit we enjoyed the Festival of Wildlife and had a wonderful afternoon with lots of activities for the children and even myself and my friend dressed up for one of the activities; we really enjoyed donating some money for a great cause! I feel incredibly lucky to have such a beautiful place on my doorstep! I can highly recommend getting an annual pass as it works out great value for money.”

Amanda Brazington, Somerset Wildlife Trust Events and Community Fundraising Manager said,

“Thank you to The Walled Garden of Cannington for hosting The Festival of Wildlife in such beautiful surroundings. This summer we have laid down the challenge for people to undertake a Random Act of Wildlife every day for 30 days and we hope visitors to the festival found some inspiration to get out and enjoy nature.”

The Walled Gardens has events throughout the year, including the Summer Fair on Saturday 20 June. To find out more about 30 Days Wild and to download some free resources to help you on your wild way, visit somersetwildlife.org/30dayswild.