Shropshire Star

Woman: 10 things to do on May Day

Another long weekend is fast approaching as we get ready to welcome to the start of May. Here at Woman we’ve put together a guide of things to do to make the most of the three-day Bank Holiday weekend.

Published
Enjoy some traditional maypole dancing

1 Celebrate all things Staffordshire on May 1. From live music to relaxing strolls through the picturesque countryside, there’s something for everyone on Staffordshire Day this year. For events taking place around the county see www.enjoystaffordshire.com

2 Join in traditional May Day celebrations such as Maypole dancing at the Black Country Living Museum. Grab a dance lesson from the professionals or enjoy some old-fashioned fun as Punch and Judy entertain the crowds. Other activities include street games and the chance to watch tug boats make a rare appearance at the museum. See www.bclm.co.uk

3 Head to Bewdley for a special May Day teddy bears’ picnic, wildlife trails, art and craft activities, story corner, cake stalls, tombola and more. It will run from 10.30am until 2.30pm on May 1 at Riverside Park North. See www.bewdleytowncouncil.org for details.

4 Visit Dudley Zoo where staff have now reverted to summer opening hours. Last entry is now 4pm, with the 40-acre site closing 90 minutes later. The zoo is also gearing up to celebrate its 80th anniversary on May 6.

5 See the sun rise and hear the birds wake at the Wolseley Centre near Rugeley. Staff from Staffordshire Wildlife Trust will be taking visitors for a walk to hear the dawn chorus at 5am on May 1. Book a place either at the visitor centre reception or call 01889 880100.

6 Explore hidden treasures on display at Staffordshire Regiment Museum. During the Discovery Day on May 1 visitors can handle weapons, as featured in movies such as Zulu, Where Eagles Dare and A Bridge too Far as well as try on uniforms. See www.staffordshireregimentmuseum.com

7 Follow the Gruffalo trail at Cannock Chase Forest. Download The Gruffalo Spotter app at home, then walk along the trail to look out for clues. See www.forestry.gov.uk for details.

8 Enjoy some swash-buckling fun at Cadbury World which is hosting a pirate weekend from April 29 to May 1. See www.cadburyworld.co.uk.

9 Step back in time at the Manor House Museum in West Bromwich. The Anglo Boer War Staffords historical re-enactment group will be entertaining crowds on April 30 and May 1. Admission is free. Call 0121 588 2985.

10 Go on a Bank Holiday Scavenger Hunt at the RSPB’s Sandwell Valley nature reserve on May 1. The hunt will run throughout the day from 10am until 4pm.