PICTURES: Youngsters explore outdoors with half-term nature hunt at Kentwell Hall in Long Melford

Donning colourful wellington boots, youngsters explored the wonders of nature as part of an outdoors event in Long Melford this week.

During the nature hunt at Kentwell Hall, children were tasked with finding a list of 40 items on their maps as they followed the garden walk and woodland trail.

“We wanted them to go outside and explore nature,” said marketing manager Alex Massey. “But also to look out for things in the garden like the snowdrops and aconites and the different types of trees.”

Along the route, youngsters had to tread quietly as they listened carefully for the sound of birds chirping and the distinct buzzing noise of bees busy making honey in their hives, which are located in the grounds of the 16th Century mansion.

Visitors were given the opportunity to feed pigs and chickens on the farm, while collecting any eggs that they may have laid.

Praising the inaugural week-long event, which runs until Sunday, Mrs Massey added: “It encourages children to be aware of nature and allows families to get involved, too.”