Families looking for a fantastic day during October Half Term and during this autumn and winter can find a whole raft of interesting and exciting things to do at Pensthorpe Nature Reserve & Gardens, near Fakenham, in Norfolk.

Here you will find nature at its very best and there is always a superb range of things to see and do, no matter what the time of year. Wildlife lovers will know that BBC Springwatch was filmed at Pensthorpe this year – and no wonder – with its gorgeous gardens, stunning scenery and fun and informative activities there is something for everyone in the family to enjoy.

Pensthorpe owner Deb Jordan says:
“Over the autumn and winter there is so much to see and do at Pensthorpe. From 24th October 2009 at 4pm you can come and relax in the warmth and comfort of the Viewing Gallery, where our wardens will tell you about all the birds coming into feed at our daily floodlit feed. It’s also a great time of year to head out to the Wader Scrape and sit in the hide and see first hand the large flocks of teal, gadwell and wigeon that come in at this time of year.”

For those with a thirst for finding out about the past, the Wensum Discovery Tour runs until the 1st November 2009 and is a superb way to experience the hidden treasures of Pensthorpe and unearth its history, which dates back to the Ice Ages. You can experience all this from the comfort of a specially-designed Land Rover and trailer with commentary provided by enthusiastic and knowledgeable local guides.

Summer may be peak time for viewing natural wonders, but taking a stroll around Pensthorpe in the autumn and winter is an equally glorious experience with plenty of wildlife to spot and wonderful scenic views to enjoy.

And after a bracing walk around the reserve you can relax and revive yourself by paying a visit to the Courtyard Café for a warming bowl of freshly-made soup, a home-made scone or a cup of tea?

Pensthorpe is also the ideal place to come and shop for those special gifts during the festive season. The Gift Shop is packed with exciting and unusual gifts, such as books, bird feeders, children‘s wooden and traditional toys, beautiful homewares including glassware, ceramics and ornaments, stationery for every occasion and delightfully aromatic toiletries. For an unusual gift that will really make a difference, you can help us with our ongoing conservation work by adopting one of our birds or adorable Red Squirrels.

Pensthorpe is even open for all the usual family activities on New Year’s Day 2010 – the perfect way to blow away the cobwebs after all the festive fuss is over!

Visit www.pensthorpe.com or call 01328 851465 for more information and opening times.