Head to Fairhaven Garden in the Norfolk Broads for The Great Bear Hunt

Families are invited to visit Fairhaven Woodland and Water Garden, at South Walsham in the heart of the Norfolk Broads and go on The Great Bear Hunt.

Fairhaven volunteer Andy Usher has carved six bears out of wood from the garden and hidden them next to trees. Armed with a trail map, showing location clues, families can have fun hunting the bears, learn about the trees in the garden and make up names for the bears.

Andy Usher with one of his bears

Andy Usher explained: “I have volunteered in the garden for the last four years. I am chainsaw qualified, bought a carving saw and began experimenting with creating animals. This led to my idea to carve the bears out of Fairhaven wood and give families a fun summer activity. All the bears are next to well-known trees and the idea is for children to discover some of the species that make up the woodland garden, as well as enjoy hunting the bears.”

On The Great Bear Hunt

Andy is also carving children's picnic tables and chairs for the garden.

Louise Rout, Fairhaven Garden Manager said: “Thank you so much to Andy for developing such a creative family activity for our visitors this summer. It's a great way to get out and explore the garden.”

Fairhaven Woodland and Water Garden is at South Walsham, signposted off the A47 at B1140 junction, half way between Norwich and Great Yarmouth. Garden entry is adult £6.85, concessions £6.60, children £3.95 and free for Fairhaven members and under 5s.

The garden is open daily all year from 10am to 5pm (closed Christmas Day), and on Wednesdays until 9pm to the end of August. Free entry to tearoom, provisions shop, gift shop and plant sales.

There is wheelchair access throughout the garden, including a Sensory Garden and an accessible boat for trips on the broad from April to October (additional charge). Visitors requiring special facilities are advised to telephone in advance, mobility scooters available.

Dogs are welcome on leads; small charge to cover poop scoop.

T 01603 270449 or see www.fairhavengarden.co.uk.