The great outdoors

With the River Thames, the Chilterns and acres of rolling wooded countryside all available why not enjoy some outdoor entertainment at half term?

With free attractions such as the Chiltern Hills, Little Wittenham Nature Reserve the Chiltern sculpture trail plus a number of events taking place, South Oxfordshire is a magnificent area in which to entertain children this half term.

Enjoy the beautiful autumn colours and take the children on an open top horse and cart ride on Wednesday 25th October. From 10am, at Darkwood Farm in Park Corner, Nettlebed, you can meet the Suffolk horses before the ride, which includes a stop at Warburg Nature Reserve in Henley. Guides will be on hand to point out wildlife along the way and you can bring a picnic to enjoy at the farm afterwards. Rides cost £8 each and booking is advised. Contact Ian on 01491 641324 or visit www.chilternsaonb.org.uk/events for more information.

At Chilterns sculpture trail in Cowleaze Wood near Christmas Common, the whole family can explore 20 different sculptures along a meandering trail through an eighty-acre wood. The trail is nestled in the Chiltern Hills and provides spectacular views over the surrounding area. The trail, car park and large picnic area are free and are open every day. For information on the sculptures and directions to the trail, visit www.chilternsculpturetrail.co.uk

For a more relaxing scenic adventure outdoors, hire a small motor/rowing boat in Henley and take a trip on the River Thames. Contact Hobbs of Henley on 01491 572035 or visit www.hobbs-of-henley.com

If the children still have lots of energy, take them for a spot of kite flying and a self-guided nature trail at Little Wittenham Nature Reserve. It is an ideal location for bird watching and walking along the woodland paths or the banks of the Thames. Admission is free and the reserve is open every day. More information is available on the attractions page.

This is just a selection of what is on offer in South Oxfordshire; see the attractions page for other places and events to visit such as the Herb Farm and the Harcourt Arboretum.