Spring Highlights. A celebration of North Devon Coast and Countryside events

Spring has sprung on the North Devon Coast. Clovelly kicked off the season loudly with their Shrove Tuesday Lentsherd. There were a few clatters on the cobbles as children set off dragging rattling tin cans Down-a-long in a bid to chase bad spirits away and drive the devil into the sea. Sunday 12 March marked Daffodil Day at Hartland Abbey, their first open day of the season and after a gloomy February and beginning of March the sun shone briefly on those ancient Daffodils and Narcissus. The Camellias, Mimosa and Magnolia were blooming marvellous too. We love the circular walk from the Walled Garden through the woodland down to Blackpool Mill Mouth, I was so engrossed photographing some Primroses that I missed a shot of a Deer leaping across the path right beside me! I wasn't ready for that but I was ready for spotting the first of the wild flowers, Wood Anaemone,  a couple of Dog Violet, a solitary Red Campion, an early Greater Stitchwart and Spring Squill, no Wild Garlic or Bluebells as yet but signs are most promising for the other special open days in April. A meeting of music and poetry comes together for the launch of the "The Postman Poet" a book by Liz Shakespeare based on the life of Edward Capern. Folk musicians and songwriters Nick Wyke & Becki Driscoll have chosen some of his poems to set to music for their CD. As the achievements of the past are celebrated young musicans will be making their own bit of history at the WHAAM Westward Ho! and Appledore Music Showcase. This event will be a great opportunity for young people to showcase their musical talents in front of a live audience. Hopefully April won't bring more showers but it does herald a Wedding Fair and Easter Chicks down Clovelly plus Easter Egg hunts at Hartland Abbey and the Big Sheep. The Big Sheep has a full calendar of events with Toddler Take-over days and ewenique family fun including the pinnacle of the sheep racing calendar, the Grand National. Abbotsham not Aintree but just as thrilling. Odds on favourites Red Ram, Wooly Jumper and Little Pullover will be running. Hartland Abbey will be having open day events for Mothering Sunday, Easter and those famous Bluebells. By then the Swallows will have returned in time to swoop over the old Oak Trees. The Hartland Abbey Estate is also the location for the Hartland Hartbreak Run in aid of the Childrens Hospice Southwest. Scroll down for details if you are you up for the challenge. As I write this hailstones are tapping on the window. Come rain or shine get out and about the coast and countryside this Spring, enjoy what North Devon has to offer. Article Pat Adams 21/3/2017

24th March SHOWCASE FOR YOUNG MUSICIANS. Get ready for “WHAAM JR” - Westward Ho! & Appledore Music Showcase on Friday 24th March at the Pier House, Westward Ho! The event will be representing North Devon’s youth #bands, #singers and #choirs performing in aid of the Royal National Life Institution's Appledore Lifeboat Station. This event is a great opportunity for young people to showcase their musical talents in front of a live audience, to gain experience, enhance their confidence in performing and confirm that “North Devon’s Got Talent!” . Tap here to apply/read all about it in our blog post

25th March AN EVENING OF READING AND SONGS celebrates the launch of ‘The Postman Poet’, a novel by Liz Shakespeare, Author based on the life of Edward Capern. Liz is also publishing 34 of his 600 poems in ‘The Poems of Edward Capern’. Folk musicians and songwriters Nick Wyke & Becki Driscoll have chosen some of his poems to set to music for their CD, ‘The Songs of Edward Capern’. The book and CD launch takes place with an evening of reading and songs at the Royal Hotel in Bideford on the 25th March. Read post to find out more about the event, the books and CD. Read post all about it here
#Bideford

26th March Hartland Abbey Mothering Sunday and Spring Flowers 11am-5pm Our first open day of the 2017 season coincides with Mothering Sunday. Spring should be in full swing at Hartland Abbey in time for Mothering Sunday on 26th March. It will be a lovely opportunity to walk around the gardens and grounds with the magnolias, tree rhododendrons, stunning camellias, daffodils, scillas, hellebores and spring bulbs bursting into flower. The Old Kitchens Tea Room will be producing hot soup, pasties, light lunches and their scrumptious homemade cakes and cream teas. The house will be open too between 1 - 4pm. Lovely primrose walks lead to the beach and Blackpool Mill, the location for 'The Lanyon' in 'The Night Manager' with Tom Hiddleston, Hugh Laurie and Olivia Colman, filmed in April 2015 in Hartland village and on the Hartland Abbey estate. Do come along for our first day of the 2017 season and give your mother a happy day out in this beautiful valley! Dogs will love it too! Normal admission prices apply. Hartland Abbey, Nr Bideford EX39 6DT Tel: 01237441496/441234 - Visit Website

APRIL

2nd April Clovelly Wedding Fair. Wedding Fair at Clovelly Court Great Terrace, whatever the weather.
1pm till dusk with FREE entry. No matter what the weather, Clovelly is the perfect place to create your own unique wedding. With its festival vibe, Clovelly Wedding Fair will have a band for all tastes, a bar, a children's area, outside caterers and local suppliers from all over Devon and Cornwall. Come along and be inspired to create your perfect day. From 1pm to 5pm For further details contact: clovellyweddings@gmail.comVisit http://www.clovelly.co.uk/weddings and
http://www.clovellyweddings.com

8th April to 17th April Find the Easter Chicks at Clovelly. Children receive a village map on entry on which to mark the location and number of Easter chicks perched up and down the tumbling cottages along the High Street to the Quay. Return the map to the Visitor Centre reception if you spot at least 10 chicks to win an Easter egg and a bigger prize if you spot all 15.

8th April  Big Sheep Grand National. A highlight in our sheep race calendar. While many racers are competing in the British Grand National our favourite competiters; Red Ram, Wooly Jumper and Little Pullover to name a few will be battling out for the 2017 Practical Cup. The 6 sheep and their jockeys have been in secret training for almost six months and the Sheepstakes promises to have all the pace, excitment and adrenaline rush watching the Grand National live! We hold our normal sheep races every day at 3:50pm. Visit Website

Easter Fun at Hartland Abbey. Easter Sunday April 16th & Easter Monday April 17th 11am-5pm (Easter egg hunts will continue to Thursday 20th if we have enough Easter eggs)! Come and join the fun in the beautiful grounds and gardens of Hartland Abbey over Easter. Children will have a wonderful time searching all the woodland paths and walks for clues that will lead them to a hidden treasure trove of Easter Eggs. There will be traditional activities and games like Pin the Tail on the Bunny and easter egg decorating as well (only Easter weekend) The daffodils and spring flowers should be looking wonderful, making this a special day out for adults and children alike. The house will be open from 2-5pm at an extra charge. Dogs are very welcome provided they don't eat the Easter eggs first! Grounds open 11am-5pm. Adults £8, All children over 2 £4.50 (including Easter Egg Hunt), Admission to house extra: Adults £4 Children free. Hartland Abbey, Nr Bideford EX39 6DT For further information please ring 01237 441496 /441234 - Visit Website

23rd April Bluebell Sunday at Hartland Abbey 11am-5pm. Bluebell Days at Hartland Abbey are legendary and a wonderful opportunity to visit at a reduced entry price when the valley is looking at its most beautiful. The bluebells at Hartland Abbey carpet the walks from the Walled Gardens to the sea. A restored woodland path links the Summerhouse to the Gazebo and Blackpool Mill overlooking the Atlantic. The restored Summerhouse was always a favourite spot for the family to picnic and for the children to play. If it is cold there will be a lovely log fire burning! See 'Barton Cottage' by the sea, the home of the Dashwood family in the BBC production of 'Sense and Sensibility'and the location for BBC's 'The Night Manager' by John Le Carre, . Along the way enjoy our bluebells, primroses, violets, wild anemones, wild orchids, foxgloves and much more. We love children and dogs and hope that you will bring as many as possible! There should be lots of lovely plants out in the gardens too; the early rhododendrons, camellias, tulips and later bulbs and early perennials amongst others. For the energetic, children and dogs, there will be plenty of opportunity for walking and exploring the 3½ miles of paths within the Abbey grounds. Bluebell Day entry prices: Adults £6, Children (age 5-15) £1, Under 5 free. Your entry ticket to the gardens and grounds includes the Museum, Exhibition and Gift Shop. Parking free. Entry to the house £4 extra. The house will be open from 2-5pm (last admission 4.15pm). The Old Kitchen Tea Rooms will be serving their delicious light lunches and home made cream teas. Hartland Abbey, Nr Bideford EX39 6DT For further information please ring 01237 441496/441234 - Visit Website

Sunday 30th April Hartland Hartbreak Run at Hartland Abbey, Huge thanks to the hundreds of runners who puffed, panted and sweated their way round the course through some of North Devon's most stunning scenery on the Hartland Abbey Estate to raise thousands of pounds for the wonderful Children's Hospice South West in 2016. Lets make 2017 even more successful so start training soon for this most deserving cause! Angela Stucley November 2016 Well folks…It's 13 (ish) miles of uphill, downhill, through rivers, bogs and hedges and some really stunning scenery. Mind you, you won't get to see much more than about 2 foot in front of you….. .We are starting and finishing from the fabulous Hartland Abbey and are very fortunate that Sir Hugh and Lady Stucley have allowed us to run around their wonderful estate. You'll encounter the beautiful gardens of the Abbey - with bluebells in full flight - and then the rugged and unrelenting South West Coast Path. After a quick trip around Hartland Lighthouse it's in to the deepest darkest Devonshire countryside - keep your wits about you and you'll probably make it out alive. Back through the abbey grounds once more and up to the ruined Pleasure House overlooking the Atlantic, back onto the coast path and past (through?) a waterfall before once again leaving the coast path to explore some local woods. Once out of the woods there is the opportunity to run through the estate's area of bio-diversity before heading back to the Abbey for the finish. Doesn't sound that bad does it? Did I mention that there might be some hills? Simon Haywood
Are you up for the challenge? And raise money for charity. If you have any questions about the race please do get in touch, you can either drop me an email at the address below, give me a call or even write!
Our Address: Brook Cottage, Blakeshill Road Landkey, Barnstaple, Devon EX32 0NE Tel: 01271 831498 - Mobile: 07515 875651 Website: http://www.northdevonroadrunners.com Email: simon.haywood@virgin.net

For more North Devon Events see North Devon Focus Community Calender -  North Devon Coast & Country Chronicle Facebook -  The Big Sheep - Burton Art Gallery -  The Plough Arts Centre -  Bideford Cinema Local Press: What's On North Devon Gazette - North Devon Journal  

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 North Devon Tourist Information Centres
Barnstaple Tourist Information Centre, North Devon Museum, The Square, Barnstaple, EX32 9LS Tel: 01271 375000
Bideford Tourist Information Centre, Burton Art Gallery, Kingsley Road, Bideford, EX39 2QQ Tel: 01237 477676
Braunton Tourist Information Centre The Bakehouse Centre, Caen Street, Braunton, EX33 1AA Tel: 01271 816688
Combe Martin Tourist Information Centre Cross Street, Combe Martin, EX34 ODH Tel: 01271 889031
Holsworthy Visitor Information Centre Ruby Country, Holsworthy Manor Car Park, Holsworthy EX22 6DJ Tel: 01409 254 185
Torrington Tourist Information Centre, Castle Hill, South Street, Torrington Tel: 01805 626140
lfracombe Tourist Information Centre The Landmark Theatre, The Seafront, Ilfracombe, EX34 9BX Tel: 01271 863 001
Lynton & Lynmouth Tourist Information Centre Lynton Town Hall, Lee Road, Lynton, EX35 6HT Tel: 01598 752225
Lynmouth National Park Centre, The Pavilion, The Esplanade, Lynmouth, EX35 6EQ Tel: 01598 752509
South Molton Tourist Information Centre 1 East Street, South Molton, EX36 3BU Tel: 01769 574122
Woolacombe Tourist Information Centre The Esplanade, Woolacombe, EX34 7DL Tel: 01271 870553

North Devon's Mind, Body & Soul Festival EWE2 Arena at The BIG Sheep Saturday 25th & Sunday 26th April

North Devon's inaugural Mind, Body & Soul Festival will take place at The BIG Sheep family attraction in Bideford on Saturday 25th and Sunday 26th April. With all the pressures of modern life it's so easy to feel stressed.... but what exactly is stress? Stress is a modern, widely used buzzword that's used to describe the pressure of modern day, leaving people unable to cope. This new festival will be like no other and promises to leave visitors feeling relaxed, pampered and give them all the tools they will need to lead happier and more fulfilled lives We may live in a world that has more appliances and technology to make for a more comfortable life than previous generations - but does that mean we have better and more fulfilling lifestyles? In today's busy world where more of us have to work in demanding jobs as well as raising a family we have very little time left over for ourselves and when we do find time, we feel guilty about enjoying some 'me' time and this undoubtedly plays havoc with our well-being. The Mind, Body & Soul Festival which is sponsored by 'My Town: Bideford' will give visitors an opportunity to come along to find out ways in which to nourish their mind, body and soul. There is already a wealth of exhibitors and activities planned for the event including yoga, tai chi, allergy testing, beauty treatments, relationship and personal life coaching, healing, pilates, holistic therapies, massage, physics, prayer and much more. 

Diana Brook, creator of the hugely popular 'The Mind, Body and Soul Workout Guide' and guest speaker at the festival believes that looking and feeling great on the outside starts with promoting health on the inside and says, "Our thoughts, emotions, nutrition, work, and family life all influence our wellbeing. By increasing awareness of the mind, body, and soul, we can gain a fresh perspective on how to care of our health and begin healing." Diana who is a natural health & healing practitioner based in South Wales will inspire visitors with her talk on Coloured Light Therapy. Diana's aim will be to encourage individuals to become aware of the healing energies of light to promote physical, emotional and spiritual wellbeing' 

Rick Turner, director of the BIG Sheep and brains behind the Festival, is confident this inaugural festival will prove to be a huge success and lead to the development of an annual festival and said, 'We want our visitors to enjoy the wide range of experiences at our Mind Body & Soul Event and, at the same time, feel confident that they are in good hands. All our exhibitors have been recommended to us so we are confident we have created a safe, honest and ethical environment that allows visitors to come along secure in the knowledge that they will be treated with respect, that they can trust the advice or service they require and that they will enjoy their day. As well as having an opportunity to talk to therapists there will be a series of taster sessions, workshops and talks for visitors to enjoy.' Rick has been surprised by the level of interest that the event has generated to date and adds. 'Taking care of our physical and spiritual needs is an important element in caring for our whole selves and I'm sure those attending the Festival will be able to enjoy happier and more fulfilled lives.

North Devon's Mind, Body & Soul Festival EWE2 Arena at The BIG Sheep Saturday 25th & Sunday 26th April. If you would like to book a physic reading or any of the tasters session on the Mind, Body & Soul Festival log on to www.thebigsheep.co.uk and book your space.
 

Photo copyright thebigsheep (All rights reserved)

Tap here for more Spring and Summer Events at the Big Sheep Family Attraction  

NORTH DEVON'S MIND BODY AND SOUL FESTIVAL Meet the Exhibitors

MEET THE

   EXHIBITORS   

NORTH DEVON'S MIND BODY AND SOUL FESTIVAL

SATURDAY 25TH AND SUNDAY 26TH APRIL

   

Devon's Large Attraction of the Year 2014 

RELAX AND UNWIND....

Meet the exhibitors that will be joining us at our  Mind, Body and Soul Festival on Saturday 25th and Sunday 26th April. Book your treatments and tickets!

More information on all our amazing exhibitors coming this week!

North Devon Hypnotherapy 'North Devon Hypnotherapy' provides clinical hypnotherapy and spiritual hypnotherapy, helping with the stress and anxieties of every day life. Book your Hypnotherapy taster sessions and Hypnotherapy group talk

Christine Manley Christine Manley offers allergy testing and reflexology using a simple and non-invasive method to identify intolerances. Book your admission tickets today Christine will be offering allergy taster tests during the weekend

North Devon Tai Chi/ Tui Na 'North Devon Tai Chi' offer classes in Tai Chi, Tui Na. They will be offering Tui Na full and taster sessions. Tui Na is a form of Chinese massage which is used to treat skeletal and muscular problems as well as internal organ and mental issues.     Book your Tui Na taster sessions

Teeki UK    'Teeki UK' take water bottles and turn them into clothes, giving them purpose again through an eco-friendly process. Book your admission tickets to see Teeki UK's collection

North Devon Therapeutic Massage 'North Devon Therapeutic Massage' offer an enjoyable healing tool which promotes good health and well being. Book your admission tickets North Devon Therapeutic Massage will be offering sessions to book on the day

Celia Estella Celia is a gifted Clairvoyant, Medium and Healer, specializing in matters of the heart and soul. Book you admission tickets Readings can be booked with Celia on the day

R and R Spa

'R&R Spa' a luxury North Devon haven where you can enjoy a range of gentle therapeutic treatments  which will leave you feeling Relaxed - and ready to get back on top of your job and busy family life.

Book your Indian Head Massage taster with R&R Spa

Ho, Ho, Ho from the Big Sheep, Black Friday Deal, FREE Christmas Light Show & More

Buy One Child Ticket to see Santa... Get One Free!! Thinking of coming to see Santa for our opening weekend, on 6th and 7th December? BOOK your tickets BEFORE MIDNIGHT on Friday 28th November 2014 and get one ticket FREE!! One Child Ticket to see Santa must be purchased to receive a second for FREE. Tickets must be purchased before midnight on Friday 28th November via website: www.thebigsheep.co.uk

Free Entry to Christmas Light Show This Weekend We are opening our Santa's Grotto a week early for our visitors to take a sneak peek at our Christmas Light Show for FREE!! Come and take a look at the grotto, as the Christmas Lights dance to a festive tune! Usual prices apply to BIG Sheep attractions. Santa won't be making appearances until 6th December.

Christmas Nearly New Baby & Toddler Sale

Help raise money for POPSI -  (Parents of Premature and Sick Infants) Read More

Saturday 29th November    10:30am - 2:30pm

November Highlights. A celebration of North Devon Coast and Countryside events

It's lighting up time, literally and usually by now we'll have switched on the heating and settled down in front of a cosy fire to watch Strictly and X Factor and soon it'll be I'm a Celebrity and we could be stuck indoors till next Spring!! The good news is there are plenty of fun events this month to lure you away from the telly. The Northern Devon Nature Improvement Area are holding some free courses for woodland owners wishing to learn how to fell and extract small amounts of timber for personal use or sale using a variety of techniques. Remember, remember the 5th November when the North Devon skies will be lighting up for Guy Fawkes Night and there are a number of  organised Bonfire and Fireworks Parties around the region including a big fun night of boogying and bopping, fireworks and fun at the Big Sheep including a special toddler firework display earlier in the evening. Novemeber is also a time to celebrate the humble herring. Clovelly was once a major centre for herring fishing and their annual Herring Festival is held to promote these tasty, nutritious 'Silver Darlings' and support carefully managed fishing as carried out by our local fishermen. The village once depended on the harvest of herring, which are caught in superb condition for a short season off its coast. Records go back over 400 years and in 1749, there were a hundred herring boats in the port. When fishing was good, 9000 herring could be landed at one time. Those days of massive catches are long gone and there remain just two herring fishermen who still employ sustainable fishing methods using drift nets and long lines. Kids can enjoy the North Devon A.O.N.B. event-themed, free craft activities, there will be Shanty singers, street entertainment, local food and craft stalls, flax making and a photographic exhibition of Clovelly herring fishing and Kipperland will make sure this is a "smoking" fun day out for all the family.

4th November FREE courses ‘All things wood-fuel’ this Autumn with Northern Devon NIA. With ever rising populations of the non-native grey squirrel, damage to young trees through bark stripping is at epidemic proportions in North Devon. If you have young trees or are hoping for regenerating seedling in your wood to have a chance of establishing this course is a must. View details
5th November Guy Fawke's Fire Works Party at the Big Sheep. Bonfire and burgers - Fireworks and Fun - Boogying and Bopping! Special Toddler Firework display earlier in the evening at 6pm Doors open at 5pm Junior Fireworks - 6pm Bonfire Lit at 7pm Main Fireworks at 7.45pm Indoor Playground closes at 9:30pm Remember, remember the 5th of November - Bonfire and…
12th November North Devon Arts Broomhill Arts Hotel 8pm. A talk by Michael Brennand-Wood,an innovative and inspiring artist working in textiles. Free to NDA members, guests £5
14th and 15th November Beaford Arts The Common will be performed in Dolton on Friday 14 November and Hatherleigh on Saturday 15 November. Tickets are free but limited so booking is essential.  Details as follows:
Dolton Village Hall, Friday 14 November 2014 at 7.30 pm Tickets FREE but must be reserved via Beaford Arts, www.beaford-arts.org.uk, telephone 01769 572573, collect from The Royal Oak, Dolton
Hatherleigh Community Centre, Saturday 15 November 2014 at 7.30 pm Tickets FREE but must be reserved via Beaford Arts, www.beaford-arts.org.uk, telephone 01769 572573, collect from Hatherleigh Community Centre
16th November Clovelly Herring Festival. Maritime historian and writer, Mike Smylie, will return with his 'Kipperland' exhibition, which is devoted to the history of the herring. He will also be turning herring into delicious and delicate-tasting kippers and bloaters in his smokehouse. There will also be net making, flax processing and a curragh on show provided by 'Flaxland'. There'll be a wide variety of herring dishes in the quay kitchens, cookery demonstrations, live shanty singers, street entertainment, other local food and craft stalls, a photographic exhibition of Clovelly herring fishing and A.O.N.B. event-themed, free craft activities. To see the 'Silver Darling' menu at the Red Lion Harbour Restaurant, please click here http://www.clovelly.co.uk/red-lion-hotel-harbour-restaurant Standard admission charges include all entertainment.
27th November FREE courses ‘All things wood-fuel’ this Autumn with Northern Devon NIA. Learn how to fell and extract small amounts of timber for personal use or sale using techniques including a compact tractor, small crane and extraction using horses. Practical solutions for everyday woodland owner problems are all high on the agenda. For the less mechanized or equestrian amongst you there will be practical coppicing advice including the use of tools. View details
27th November Ilfracombe High Street Lighting of the Lights. The lights ceremony with a parade, music, stalls and late night shopping. www.visitilfracombe.co.uk
 For more North Devon Events see Local Press: What's On North Devon Gazette - North Devon Journal  

 Herring Boats are coming. Picarooner and a Coracle. Photo Clovelly Herring Festival 2013 P. Adams (all rights reserved) 
Check out more pics and post Catching the Essence of Clovelly

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 North Devon Tourist Information Centres
Barnstaple Tourist Information Centre, North Devon Museum, The Square, Barnstaple, North Devon, EX32 9LS
Bideford Tourist Information Centre, Burton Art Gallery, Kingsley Road, Bideford, EX39 2QQ 
Braunton Tourist Information Centre The Bakehouse Centre, Caen Street, Braunton, North Devon, EX33 1AA
Combe Martin Tourist Information Centre Cross Street, Combe Martin, North Devon, EX34 ODH 
Holsworthy Visitor Information Centre: The Memorial Hall, Holsworthy, 
Torrington Tourist Information Centre, Castle Hill, South Street, Torrington   
lfracombe Tourist Information Centre The Landmark Theatre, The Seafront, Ilfracombe, North Devon, EX34 9BX
Lynton Tourist Information Centre Lynton Town Hall, Lee Road, Lynton, North Devon, EX35 6HT T
South Molton Tourist Information  1 East Street, South Molton, Devon, EX36 3BU 
Woolacombe Tourist Information Centre The Esplanade, Woolacombe, North Devon, EX34 7DL 
 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 To add an event go to North Devon Focus Coast & Country Chronicle Community Calendar 

APRIL HIGHLIGHTS. BLUEBELL WALKS, FANTASTIC FUDGE & EASTER FUN

April and no showers, fantastic. I have just seen my first fledglings, two little Blackbirds and I'm planning to sew some more wildflower seeds in the garden, a little more encouragement for the bees, birds and butterflies. The sun is out at last and we can titivate the garden, do some DIY, have a barbecue or head for the hills! Well probably not the hills but definately the North Devon Coast. It's Bluebell time in our ancient woodlands and where better to see them in all their glory than Hartland Abbey. This year you can choose one of three Bluebell Days during April. Here are just some of the fun events over the Easter holidays:

Easter EGGStravaganza at the Big Sheep From Saturday 5th April - Monday 21st April
They've got an action-packed Easter in store for you: Full details visit the Big Sheep website

• Exclusive Easter Bunny Breakfast Mornings on Good Friday and Easter Bank Holiday Monday - click here for full details.
  
• Over 30,000 mini eggs to find - search high and low and if you find 3 mini eggs you can swap them for 1 large egg.
  
• 1 large chocolate egg per child who takes part in the Egg Hunt. Various eggs to choose from.
  
• Meet the Easter Bunny - everyday he'll be around to meet and greet. Remember your camera for some great Easter pictures!
  
• FREE Face Painting every day from 14th April - 21st April. A face painted egg or chick or daffodil..all things Easter!

From Saturday 12th April to Monday 21st April Funtastic Fudge Hunt, Clovelly. 20 fudge stones, like this one, will be hidden in the village each day. Find one and take it to the Fudge Shop at the Visitor Centre and discover how much fudge you have won. If you find Number 20, you will get a whole kilo of fudge, made up of 8 different flavours - what a treat! And you can come back and try again. One stone redeemable per visiting family per day.

Easter Egg Hunt at North Devon Maritime Museum, Appledore. From Sunday 13th April to the 26th April the museum will be running an Easter Egg hunt! It will be held in the Museum from 10.30am to 4pm each day for a week. Come along and join in the fun!

Friday 18 April LIVE GIG at The Globe Hotel, Fore Street, Great Torrington 8:30pm. Valentine Gray and DIAMOND DOGS are kicking off the first night of their North Devon tour on Friday 18 April @ The Globe Hotel Great Torrington. Join us for a night of Punk, Rock & 70s Glam! Get down and funky! Make the first night of their North Devon tour a rip roaring one! ?3 entry fee on the door. Contact Tel: 07932 820764 Email: sallydonnellan@gmail.com

18th & 20th April Enjoy a Family Breakfast with the Easter Bunny at The BIG Sheep. HOP OVER TO THE BIG SHEEP FOR AN EGGSELLENT BREAKFAST WITH THE EASTER BUNNY! A GIANT Easter bunny will be making a special appearance at the BIG Sheep family attraction on Good Friday 18th April and Bank Holiday Monday 20th April to enjoy a very special holiday breakfast before taking children on a…

19th April Ruby Country Market, Hatherleigh 9am-2pm. Over 200 stalls. Website 

Sunday 20th & Monday 21st day April HARTLAND ABBEY BLUEBELLS & EASTER FUN 11- 5pm. Visit us on Easter Sunday or Bank Holiday Monday and explore the woodland walks carpeted in glorious bluebells while the children enjoy the Easter Egg Hunt – with a prize for every entrant! In the courtyard there will be traditional Easter activities – try Decorating Your Own Egg (specially laid by our bantams!) or enter Pin the Tail on the Donkey and other traditional games. Once you have worked up an appetite, enjoy lunch in the Old Kitchen Tea Rooms where there will be some special chocolaty treats as well as the delicious, homemade menu! Outside, Emma and Trevor will be serving mouth-watering burgers from their barbecue for a more savoury treat. Your entry ticket to the gardens and grounds includes the Museum, ‘William Stukeley – Saviour of Stonehenge’ exhibition and Gift Shop. The Old Kitchen Tea Rooms will be open serving hot soup, light lunches and home made cream teas. Parking free. House open at extra charge. For prices and further information visit www.hartlandabbey.com or phone 01237 441234 /441496 Hartland Abbey, Hartland, North Devon EX39 6DT 

23rd April St. George's Day at the Big Sheep. Anyone with the name George or Georgina is admitted free of charge to help celebrate St George's Day! George's or Georgina's must be accompanied by a full paying adult or child.

26th April Psychic Suppers at the Big Sheep. We'll be holding Psychic Supper's in collaboration with the English Psychic Company. After enjoying a two course homemade supper in the BIG Sheep’s Shepherd’s Restaurant, guests will receive their own personal reading. Susan Pengelly from the English Psychic Company has been…

26th April Second Vintage and Makers Market at  The Plough Arts Centre, Great Torrington. There will also be a Punch and Judy Show in town organised by The Chambers of Trade. There will be lots of lovely stalls and more space as we are in the main auditorium this time downstairs.

27th April, HARTLAND ABBEY BLUEBELL SUNDAY 11am-5pm. The bluebells at Hartland Abbey are legendary. Visitors can come at a reduced entry rate and enjoy the wonderful circular walks through the bluebells to the sea. We love children and dogs and hope that you will bring as many as possible! Your entry ticket to the gardens and grounds includes the Museum, ‘William Stukeley – Saviour of Stonehenge’ exhibition and Gift Shop. The Old Kitchen Tea Rooms will be open serving hot soup, light lunches and home made cream teas. Parking free. House open at extra charge. Entry to the grounds: Adults £5-00, Children (aged 5-15) £1; under 5 Free. Entry to the house £4; open 12-4 pm, includes Museum, Shop, Exhibition. Free parking www.hartlandabbey.com T: 01237 441234 /441496 Hartland Abbey, Hartland, North Devon EX39 6DT 

Please also check out Local Church Services  - What's On Guide North Devon Journal and the North Devon Gazette - Bideford Cinema - North Devon Theatres - Plough Arts Centre - Burton Art Gallery & Museum

 Photos: Hartland Abbey Bluebell Day 2013 copyright Pat Adams (All rights reserved)

NORTH DEVON TOURIST INFORMATION CENTRES

Barnstaple Tourist Information Centre, North Devon Museum, The Square, Barnstaple, North Devon, EX32 9LS Bideford Tourist Information Centre, Burton Art Gallery, Kingsley Road, Bideford, EX39 2QQ   Braunton Tourist Information Centre The Bakehouse Centre, Caen Street, Braunton, North Devon, EX33 1AA Combe Martin Tourist Information Centre Cross Street, Combe Martin, North Devon, EX34 ODH  Holsworthy Visitor Information Centre: The Memorial Hall, Holsworthy,  Torrington Tourist Information Centre, Castle Hill, South Street, Torrington    lfracombe Tourist Information Centre The Landmark Theatre, The Seafront, Ilfracombe, North Devon, EX34 9BX Lynton Tourist Information Centre Lynton Town Hall, Lee Road, Lynton, North Devon, EX35 6HT T South Molton Tourist Information  1 East Street, South Molton, Devon, EX36 3BU  Woolacombe Tourist Information Centre The Esplanade, Woolacombe, North Devon, EX34 7DL

FESTIVAL OF FIRE! THE BIG SHEEP - BIDEFORD THIS SATURDAY 15TH MARCH FROM 6.00PM

A SPONSORED WALK WITH A DIFFERENCE Raising money for Dogs Helping Kids in conjunction with The Jaden Cornelious Foundation
RED HOT TALENT 
Jaden Cornelious, Tamsin Ball and Taya Lambden
Visitors will get to listen to the dulcet tones of Jaden Cornelious, one of North Devon's hottest talents who will be singing a rang of his popular classical crossover songs as well as some new ones and may even slot in a few pop songs. Jaden will be joined on stage by Tamsin Ball, another local classical crossover singer who has performed on the West End, The O2 Arena and the Lourve in Paris. Supporting Jaden and Tamsin will be 14 year old local girl Taya Lambden from Park Community School.

FREE ENTRY FOR SEASON TICKET MEMBERS!
Enjoy a Family Evening of Fun - Watch a Fantastic Fire show, Cheer on the brave fundraisers as they walk on fire, Enjoy Ewetopia Indoor Playground, Listen to Jaden Cornelious, Tamsin Ball and Taya Lambden perform AND you'll all be fundraising for charity as all entry costs are to be given to

Dogs Helping Kids. Doors Open 6.00pm Fire Show : 6.20pm Fire Walk : 7pm £3 entry pp or Family Ticket £10 (2+2) Children Under 3ft FREE FREE ENTRY for season ticket members All entry proceeds will be given to Dogs Helping Kids

FESTIVAL OF FIRE! THE BIG SHEEP - BIDEFORD THIS SATURDAY 15TH MARCH FROM 6.00PM

BIG Sheep Contact Information: Telephone: 01237 472366 Website: www.thebigsheep.co.uk

DEVON'S HOTTEST FIRE ENTERTAINER COOLHAND LUKE Festival of Fire We will be hosting one of the hottest nights of the year on this Saturday 15th March, combining a charity fire walk with a fire juggling and spinning show. You've all heard the idiom 'If you play with fire, you'll get burnt - Coolhand Luke, North Devon's hottest fire entertainer who has been playing with fire for years has yet to be burnt!

Winter Sports and more at the Big Sheep. Snowboarding Simulator, Toboggan Slope and Ice Rink

The Big Sheep will be adding a big Wow Factor to Winter from this weekend. You can enjoy the toboggan slope for children and adults and get into the wintery spirit racing at high speeds from the top to the bottom of the slopes! You can be sure that your woolly hats, scarves and gloves will be coming off as you warm up from running back up to the top of the slope for numerous rides! Alongside the new toboggan slope will be the synthetic skating rink, back again for you to practice your skating skills. Toddlers can also have a go at skating with their new ski boots suitable for small children. NEW for this winter season will be their new snowboarding simulator. All winter activities are undercover in the new events building. Christmas Farmers Markets will be held on the run up to Christmas on the 7th, 14th and 21st December, there is also a Gingerbread Workshop on the 21st December and Breakfast with Santa on the 22nd December.  Visit web site to book tickets or find out more

Christmas Farmers Markets - Please click here to view the full stall holders list

A SPONSORED WALK WITH A DIFFERENCE: FIRE WALK CHALLENGE AT THE BIG SHEEP

Have you considered walking on a bed of hot coals? Well you can do it, you won't even need a stout pair of walking boots to take part in this alternative sponsored walk which are being held at the BIG Sheep on Sunday 16th December 2012. The chosen charity for this year's firewalk is Age Concern, however you are welcome to chose a chairty of your own. Fortunately, you do not need any experience to take part in this extraordinary event so if you would like to get involved you can contact Cathy Edwards on 01271 371343 or email cathy@jcfundraising.com for a sponsorship pack. If you'd just like to offer your support we are offering FREE admission to watch the participants complete their challenge.

Nearly New Baby & Toddler Sale at the Big Sheep

Nearly New Baby & Toddler Sale  at the Big Sheep, Abbotsham, Sunday 2nd Dec - From 10am. All proceeds to Parents of Premature and Sick Infants at North Devon District Hospital.

We all know Babies and Toddlers grow out of clothes and toys so fast! Often clothes and toys look as good as new. This is a chance to either sell on your items or purchase some bargain clothes and toys.
Great opportunity to tidy up before Christmas or buy some Christmas presents!
Interested in having a stall? Call Claire or Nicola or 01237 472366 or email claire@thebigsheep.co.uk Stalls are £8 each with the full £8 going to POPSI.
Interested in visiting? Put the Morning of Sunday 2nd December in your diary or on your calendar!
Entry is £1 with the full £1 going to POPSI.

THE BIG SHEEP HALLOWEEN FESTIVAL STARTS SATURDAY!

FUN BY DAY FESTIVAL 27th October until 4th November
FREE Facepainting between:
11am - 12noon- 2pm - 2.45pm- 3pm - 3.45pm 
Pumpkin Carving between: 12 noon & 4pm (Visit The BIG Sheep facebook page to claim your FREE pumpkin voucher before 31st October. See below for more details.)
Halloween Rides: Collect your Ride Times flyer on arrival to see when the Haunted House, Haunted Tractor Ride, Ghost Train and Witches Flying School is open.
Singing Pumpkins: Visit the Singing Pumpkins or our Talking Haunted Head at any time during the day.
Fancy Dress Competitions: Dress to impress for our fancy dress competitions every day!

FUN BY NIGHT Visit the BIG Sheep during the dark for a completely different Halloween experience on any of the three evening parties: Wednesday 31st October, Thursday 1st November or Friday 2nd November from 6:30pm until 10pm. Tickets for the evening parties must be booked in advance via The BIG Sheep website and tickets are only £7.50 per person

• Haunted Hayride with Olympic Themed Frights
• Candlelit Lakeside Ghost Train Ride
• Haunted House
• Halloween Pantomime with Woolly the Sheep
• Pumpkin Parade with Prizes for the best Carved Pumpkins.
• Ewetopia Indoor Playground & Cafe 

'World's BIGGEST Coffee Morning' at the Big Sheep - Friday 28th September

COFFEE, CHA CHA CHA & A CHAT!
The Big Sheep will be hosting the 'World's BIGGEST Coffee Morning' organised by Macmillan Cancer Care from 10am to 12 noon to raise vital funds for this wonderful charity who provide medical, emotional, practical and financial support for people living with cancer in our local community. As well as offering coffee and cake and a lovely friendly environment where people can meet and enjoy a chat, the BIG Sheep will also be holding Cha Cha Cha dancing demonstrations and inviting visitors to come along and have a go swaying their hips to the sounds of some fantastic Latin music - a great way to burn off all the cake calories!
The BIG Sheep Friday 28th September 2012  - Visitors taking part in the coffee morning will also be able to enjoy FREE entry to the BIG Sheep from 10 am to 12 noon.

SOUTHWEST EXTREME NEWS - THE BRITISH NATIONAL 4X - BIKE EVENT THIS WEEKEND/

The British National 4X Bike event is heading to South West Extreme Bike Park in Abbotsham, Bideford (across the road from the BIG Sheep) on Saturday 11th and Sunday 12th August for round 5 and 6 of the 7 round competition. 

 














WEEKEND TIMETABLE
Saturday 11th August - Schwalbe British 4X Series Round 5:

• 10.00am Open Practice
• 11.00am Gate Practice - Fun, Big Fun, Juvenile, Youth, Master, Veteran, Girls
• 11.30am Gate Practice - Junior, Senior & Pro Elite
• 12.00 Midday Track Closed Lunch.
• 12.30pm Racing starts - 3 Moto Format
• 1/8 Finals
• 1/4 Finals
• Semi Finals
• Finals
• 4.30pm Presentations

Sunday 12th August - Schwalbe British 4X Series Round 6:

• 09.00am Open Practice
• 10.00am Gate Practice - Fun, Big Fun, Juvenile, Youth, Master, Veteran, Girls
• 10.30am Gate Practice - Junior, Senior & Pro Elite
• 11.00 Midday Track Closed Lunch.
• 12.00pm Racing starts - 3 Moto Format
• 1/8 Finals
• 1/4 Finals
• Semi Finals
• Finals
• 4.30pm Presentations 

FREE ENTRY FOR SPECTATORS! NOT TO BE MISSED!
FIND OUT MORE: WWW.NAKEDRACING.COM - 01237 880028  
Read the North Devon Focus Blogspot Post for National 4x Championship 2010 
Explore Abbotsham with the North Devon Focus Picture Tour

ENJOY THE JUBILEE SPECIALS & FUN FILLED HALF TERM WEEK AT THE BIG SHEEP

Spring Bank Holiday Weekend at the Big Sheep, Abbotsham Bideford

Jubilee Diamond - Hunt Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II is looking for more BIG diamonds to add to her Imperial State Crown to celebrate HER Diamond Jubilee. We're inviting you to search high and low around the BIG Sheep. Once all the diamonds have been found children each get a Jubilee prize to take home.
Who would you crown Queen of North Devon?
£250 Jubilee Cake
In conjunction with the North Devon Journal, we're searching for the Queen on North Devon - If you know someone who you feel is deserving of this prestigious title contact anne@thebigsheep.co.uk telling us why you feel this community person should be crowned Queen of North Devon. Winner Recieves:
Banbury's Makeover
£250 Jubilee Cake,
Professional Before & After Photo

The BIG Sheep Winter Opening, Ice Skating & Toboganning

Winter Weekends & Winter School Holidays. During the winter The BIG Sheep is open at weekends & school holidays  10am until 5pm.

During January there are no animals onsite. Lambing will start in February.
(some attractions are weather dependable and this can affect their opening hours.) During the winter months the attractions open are: Ewetopia Indoor playground and cafe, Train Ride, Jumping Pillows, Battlefield Live, Ice Skating and Toboggan Slope.

Prices: £6 each for adults and children over 3ft tall.
£2.50 each for children under 3ft tall.
Tickets purchased online at www.thebigsheep.co.uk are discounted by £1 per ticket.
**

The Big Sheep are open every day during the winter school holidays.
February Half Term 2012 – Saturday 11th February 2012 until Sunday 19th February 2012.

Please call 01237 472366 for more information.

 Prices: £6 each for adults and children over 3ft tall.

£2.50 each for children under 3ft tall.
Tickets purchased online at www.thebigsheep.co.uk are discounted by £1 per ticket.  
NB: The first weekend of the winter season is 5th and 6th November 2011 - The last weekend of the winter season is 24th and 25th March 2012.