From the big screen to the beaten track – will you spot The Highway Rat in your local forest?

Posted in: While You Are Here

23rd Feb 2018

Families are invited by the Forestry Commission to escape the rat race by visiting Kielder Water & Forest Park and Hamsterley Forest to enjoy exciting new character activity trails that are launching across England.

‘The Highway Rat’ Activity Trails are inspired by the story of the same name by much-loved children’s author and illustrator-duo Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. The activity is being brought to life thanks to a partnership between the Forestry Commission and Magic Light Pictures.

In celebration of the highly-anticipated Highway Rat animation, produced by Magic Light which premiered on BBC One as a highlight of this year’s Christmas schedule, families can explore the new themed Activity Trails at Kielder and Hamsterley Forest, as well as 20 other beautiful forest locations across the UK.

Those looking for a way to ‘shun the sofa’ should take to the trails and try to catch a glimpse of the ‘beastly and bad’ star, whilst enjoying fun family activity in the great outdoors.

Visitors to the trails can explore and enjoy the world of their local woodland wildlife as they follow in the footsteps of a mischievous rodent intent on swiping the sweet treats of every creature he encounters (keep a close eye on your picnics!).

Families will also be able to pick up an exclusive highway saddle bag for just £3.00, which includes a Highway Rat mask and a series of fun activities to complete along the trail.

The Forestry Commission is encouraging families to swap city streets for forest highways, and with 99% of England’s population living within an hour’s drive of a forest, your nearest Highway Rat Activity Trail is probably closer than you think!

Visit England’s woods and forests throughout the year for family-friendly events and activities.