National Parks Week Coming

A quick heads up for National Parks Week from July 27 to August 2, 2009, when Britain's National Parks will be celebrating their 60th birthday with a series of special events.

It's the 60th anniversary of the 1949 National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act, which first set up the parks and there are events all over the country aimed at celebrating the past, present and future.

For example, in the North Yorks Moors, you'll be able to watch Roman legionnaires - okay, accountants from Cleethorpes dressed in skirts - setting up camp at Cawthorn. Or join Rangers for a walk along Hadrian's Wall. And in the Lakes and Dales, a series of educational walks aim at teaching you more about farming in upland areas. You can even opt to learn dry stone walling skills in the Northumberland National Park.

Lots more going on for both individuals and families. See www.nationalparks.gov.uk/nationalparksweek for more details.