Follow Timothy the Tortoise’s wildlife trail around the garden of 18th century naturalist Gilbert White at his former home in Selborne, East Hampshire during the autumn half-term, and discover more about the animals he observed for his most famous work: The Natural History of Selborne.
Clues will lead families around the 30 acres of grounds and parkland to find the ‘tortoises’ hidden amongst the plants. Meanwhile, inside the museum you can join in celebrations for one of our most traditional fruits – the apple – with a variety of activities, including apple bobbing and tasting.
The Apples and Tortoises family fun event will take place at Gilbert White’s House & Garden and The Oates Collection between Saturday, 26th October and Sunday, 3rd November (closed Monday).
You can also enjoy lunch or tea-time treats in the award-winning Tea Parlour before discovering the stories of three great explorers of the natural world in the unique galleries. These include the pioneering 18th century naturalist, Gilbert White himself; Captain Lawrence Oates of the final Scott Antarctic expedition of 1911-1912, and Victorian explorer of Central America and Africa, Frank Oates.
Open 10.30am until 4.30pm, admission is £8.50 adults; £7.50 concessions, £3 under 16s and free for under 5s. Family tickets (two adults and three children) are £20. There is free parking a short distance away in the village car park, behind the Selborne Arms. For more information call 01420 511275 or visit www.gilbertwhiteshouse.org.uk.
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