Enjoy the great outdoors with a host of fun events

There’s a chance to enjoy the great outdoors in the company of experts, starting this weekend.

From wild nights out to urban safaris, Aberdeen City Council’s countryside rangers are giving the city’s stay-cationers and tourists the opportunity of a memorable summer holiday with a host of free offbeat events.

This Saturday (21 July) the team is leading an evening campout on Elrick Hill.

Perfect for families, this fun event, running 7pm-11pm, will let budding Bear Grylls build shelters using natural materials and design natural art. Oh, and make hot drinks on outdoor kettles as the darkness sets in!

Next Tuesday (24 July) afternoon is the Pollinator Safari at the Den of Maidencraig where people can take part in planting wildflowers between noon and 2pm to attract pollinators and then go on safari to see some bees, wasps, butterflies and moths for
themselves.

Visitors can see bees on the Pollinator Safari

On Saturday 4 August between 8.30pm and midnight participants can enter – if they dare! – the mysterious world of night creatures in a wild night out Burnbanks.

This will include setting up sugar and light traps to attract moths – which will be released unharmed after identification – and using detectors to pick up the ultrasound of hunting bats. This evening is ideal for adults and older children but not for the squeamish.

The following Saturday (11 August) between 2 and 4pm, older children and adults might care to join countryside ranger Rob to discover the aspects of heritage, archaeology and natural history along the riverside between Duthie Park and the Bridge of Dee.

Councillor John Wheeler, operational delivery convener, said: ‘Our countryside rangers have lined up a brilliant mix of free summer events for young and old alike.

‘What better way to enjoy the holiday season than by sampling the outdoors, exploring our city in expert company and learning about another side to Aberdeen and what it has to offer?’

All events are free although donations are welcome, but in order to manage demand it is essential to book ahead by calling 01224 326429 or emailing countrysideranger@aberdeencity.gov.uk.