There is no doubt that the name of this particular event, Sleeping Giants, definitely conjures up the imagination with regards to what it is all about but the fact is, it is a wonderfully natural couple of hours spent in Cornwall's Danescombe Valley.
The Danescombe valley can be found just outside the village of Calstock which in turn is a 15 minute drive from the market town of Tavistock.
The difference between an Oak and a Birch
The Sleeping Giants event is organised by the Cornwall Wildlife Trust and comprises of two hours in the company of experts who talk about the ways in which different trees in the valley can be identified. Now admittedly, this kind of thing may be some people's idea of heaven whilst other can probably think of other things to do with their spare time. If you are a nature lover though, Sleeping with Giants will be two of the most enjoyable hours that you will spend in a very long time.
Cheap as chips
A £1 donation is all that is required to take part which is almost laughable due to the quality of the expert advice that you are given so it would be fair to say that the Cornwall Wildlife Trust are not exactly in it for the money.
The event is open to everyone but children must be accompanied by an adult and it is strongly recommended that you wrap up warm with water proof clothing as the chances are that it will be rather wet and cold.
A stunning location
If you are not familiar with the Danescombe Valley it really is stunning so even if you are not in Calstock at the end of February when this particular event is on, a few hours spent walking along the valley at any time of the year is quite an experience. Don't forget, you don't have to be a nature lover in order to make the most of it.
Whilst you are in Calstock it would be a shame if you didn't take the short walk to what is known as the Chapel in the Woods. Read up on the story behind this particular chapel beforehand and you will see that it is on a par with any modern day thriller. Imagine the king's horses galloping through the woods in chase of Sir Richard Edgecumbe and I can guarantee that it will send a shiver down your spine when you imagine him hiding out in the cottage.
The Danescombe Valley and the Sleeping Giants day in particular prove that you don't have to spend much money in order for the whole family to have a lovely day out. Take a picnic if you really want to keep the price down but one thing is for sure, time spent in this area will take you right back to nature and perhaps make you realise that the best things in life really are free.
Have you explored Cornwall's Danescombe Valley and do you know a tree from a bush? Do you know of any other projects which are organised by the Cornish Wildlife Trust which also take you back to nature? Please share your stories with us; we'd love to find out more…