Natural Boats and River Picnic
Enjoy games and a picnic in the river meadow at Parke and make your own natural mini boats and rafts at this family friendly event.
- Booking not needed
- Free event
Join the National Trust and the Dartmoor National Park Authority who will guide you in making fun boats or rafts out of leaves, sticks, moss and other natural items from the riverside.
Who can make the floatiest, quickest or most agile boat? Or the raft which can hold the biggest pebble? We will gather at the waterside to watch the flotilla.
After the boats we will return to the meadow for a picnic and games. You might like to bring your own picnic, but we are also supported by funding from the Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme - there will be FREE picnic lunches for children (depending on numbers).
All boats will be made with natural string and we will ask that you collect them from the river at the end of the activity.
Times
The basics
- Accessibility
The site is accessible via a steep path from the car park or the flat disused railway line from Bovey Tracey Mill Marsh Park. Please note that the area by the river has uneven ground, slopes and exposed tree roots.
- Meeting point
Meet in the meadow on the track between the cafe and the river. You can walk from Bovey, or park at Parke. what3words: ///string.diverged.soups
- Suitability for children
This activity will be fun for all but is aimed at children under 12
- What to bring and wear
Come prepared for all weathers!
- Other
This activity is organized by Dartmoor National Park Authority in collaboration with the National Trust with funding from the Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Upcoming events
Parke: Past and Present | a guided walk
This short and gentle walk will explore the history of the Parke Estate and a little about the land today.
Butterflies at Parke
Join us for a gentle walk to discover Parke's butterflies and help contribute to the Big Butterfly Count
Wildlife Picnic - family fun at Parke
Come on over to the Parke Estate for some fun in the sunshine with wildlife themed activities and lawn games. Everyone welcome.