Giant Easter bunny hunt at Castle Espie
This Easter is guaranteed to be fun-packed at Castle Espie Wetland Centre outside Comber. Join the centre’s family-focused events and get on the roll as the season changes to spring. This year’s giant Easter bunny hunt along with festive craft sessions are the confection on the Easter cake this April and beyond, as the fun starts on Monday 18 April and runs to all the way to Sunday 1 May.
With its unique setting on Strangford Lough, Castle Espie offers up so much in one day. It is perhaps fitting aside of chicks at this time of year, that the centre has Ireland’s largest collection of wildfowl. Many endangered species are included, most of which are so tame they may be hand fed.
When it comes to activities over Easter why not join resident bird expert, Dot on her hidden woodland adventure? Families can take the opportunity to learn about Castle Espie’s mini beasts and birds and all between. Or how about conjuring up some fun, as Magic George brings his incredible show to the wonderful shore-side glass structure, which is The LimeKiln Observatory on Sunday 24. Then Raymond’s Menagerie will focus on his amazing rabbits on Thursday 28. A popular event with children as they cuddle the different breeds, this is sure to be a delightful Easter memory.
On the theme of different sized rabbits, our bunny hunt will have smaller visitors hopping with delight, as they find each hidden rabbit around the site using a special clue map. Children can leave a mark on the doodle bunny board before starting the journey, finishing the hunt in the woods when the last Easter bunny gives up a special Foster’s chocolate Easter bunny for each completing participant. Remember to bring your camera as there will be a special photo opportunity at the end of the hunt. Pop your face into the free standing Easter cutout and you will automatically be transformed into the Easter rabbit!
For creative types there will be the chance to make cute Easter bunnies. Or for those wanting to burn off excess energy, a visit to Stoat Town natural play area is always a hit. Children will have a fabulous time on the ropes and branches of this unusual play system, while adults can stretch their legs, take time out take in the breathtaking views across Strangford Lough.
With a choice of freshly prepared meals and snacks including cream teas in The Loughshore Cafe, where there’s a good chance that you may be curiously observed through the centre’s picture windows by a flock of Ne Ne (Hawaiian geese), the centre has lots to offer. Perhaps there will also be time to browse in the shop or visit the RUA spring exhibition in the gallery, (Friday 22 April – Sunday 8 May), or make a day of it with a stroll in the wetlands.
And remember, if you join when you visit it will be free! For more information on opening times and event activities and timings please call 028 9187 4146 or click wwt.org.uk/castleespie
Normal admission applies for all Easter happenings this year, bringing you a great day out and much more as this also includes access to the wetlands. Castle Espie Wetland Centre opens from 10am daily. It is free to park, visit The Loughshore Café, the shop, Graffan Gallery and Drumlin Theatre, but normal admission applies to the grounds. Please note last maps for the giant bunny hunt are available one hour before closing.
