The Canal & River Trust is inviting people in Northamptonshire to discover the wonderful wildlife that thrives along their local canals at a special ‘Nurturing Nature’ event, taking place at the Canal Museum in Stoke Bruerne on Saturday 7 February, from 11am–3pm.
The charity is bringing together wildlife experts, hands‑on demonstrations and activities designed to help people explore and enjoy the natural world on their doorstep.
Visitors to the free event will be able to learn more about how the Canal & River Trust is working to protect vital canal-side habitats, as well as meet organisations including the Wildlife Trust, Woodland Trust, British Deer Society, Badger Trust, Working4Wildlife, Animals in Need, the Wild Otter Trust and Nene Valley Bats.
The day will also feature whittling demonstrations, blacksmith displays, hedge‑laying demos and fishing talks, along with a guided woodland walk, a tombola, and a wide range of family activities such as building a bug‑hotel and making bird‑feeders.
Alongside these activities, the Trust is offering two free hedge‑laying taster sessions for those interested in learning more about this traditional countryside skill and the role it plays in providing valuable habitats for wildlife. Each session lasts around an hour and includes a demonstration and hands‑on experience.
Vicky Pease, Visitor Services Duty Manager for the Canal & River Trust, said: “Our canals are a vital refuge for wildlife and an important place for people to connect with nature. The Nurturing Nature event is a fantastic opportunity for visitors to discover the creatures that call our waterways home and learn how we can all play a part in helping them thrive. We’re really looking forward to welcoming visitors of all ages to enjoy a fun, friendly day celebrating the amazing natural world right here in Stoke Bruerne.”
The event is free to attend, with normal parking charges applying. No ticket is required for general entry and visitors are welcome to drop in at any time throughout the day.
People wanting to take part in the hedgelaying taster sessions must be aged 16 or over, with under‑18s accompanied by an adult. While safety glasses will be provided, those taking part are asked to bring their own gardening or heavy‑duty gloves. Sessions begin at 12pm and 2pm, and participants should meet in the museum café 15 minutes before the start. Places are limited to 10 people per session and booking is essential via https://canalrivertrust.digitickets.co.uk/.
The Canal Museum is located at Stoke Bruerne, NN12 7SE and more information can be found at https://canalrivertrust.org.uk/things-to-do/museums-and-attractions/the-canal-museum-stoke-bruerne.
For more information about the Canal & River Trust, including how to volunteer and donate, visit: www.canalrivertrust.org.uk.
