Derbyshire Woodland Festival a great success!

People from near and far flocked to our 18th annual Woodland Festival at the weekend in the grounds of Elvaston Castle Country Park.

The weather improved as the weekend got underway and 10,000 visitors enjoyed a weekend of traditional and contemporary woodland crafts, including wild food demonstrations and survival crafts.

Two new attractions this year – the recreation of a Viking village and entertainment from an 18 foot tall tree puppet were very popular.

Our Cabinet Member for Highways, Transport and Infrastructure Councillor Simon Spencer said:

“Once again our Woodland Festival has been a great success and we’ve had lots of compliments from the public and stall holders. We’re already planning for next year’s event and anyone who missed out this year may want to get the date in their diary.”

John Holloway of Ashton on Trent said:

“For many years my family has visited this two-day event and again this year the quality of event organisation, exhibitors and displays has been excellent.

“The woodland festival continues to delight and inspire without the need for loud music! We enjoy the whole environment and the focus on simple craft activities. It is little wonder that it is so popular”.

A range of wildlife, heritage and tourism organisations were on hand to provide information and there were opportunities to explore the parkland, woodland, lake, local nature reserve and formal gardens that surround the castle at Elvaston.

Anyone who came along and wants to share their comments and images can join the conversation on the Derbyshire Woodland Festival 2018 Facebook page.

Next year the Festival will be on Saturday 21 and Sunday 22 September. Meanwhile Elvaston Castle Country Park is open all year round with opportunities for walking, cycling, horse riding, bird watching, picnicking, kite flying and exploring the park and nature reserve. The buildings and gardens are both registered (Grade 2 and Grade 2*) as being of special architectural and historical interest.

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