WITH spring upon us, now is the perfect time to explore the New Forest National Park over the Easter holidays. Discover National Parks fortnight which runs until April 21 celebrates the UK’s most protected landscapes. In the New Forest there are plenty of activities to try this month.

Here are four ideas to get you started.

1. Dig Burley. There’s still time to get involved with Dig Burley which runs until Sunday, April 14 and features talks, workshops and exhibitions. There will also be test pits dug in gardens throughout the village in a search for the hidden secrets buried below the surface. Search online for ‘Dig Burley’ to find out how to get involved.

2. Wild Play Day. Come and try crabbing, beach art, seashore scavenging and much more at Hurst Spit on Tuesday, April 16. £1 suggested donation per child. Parking charges apply. Suitable for all (children must be accompanied by an adult). No booking required. See newforestnpa.gov.uk/wildplay

3. Spring walks. There are 27 walks to choose from on the New Forest Walks app, which is free to download for iPhone or Android. With GPS navigation and points of interest along the route, it’s the best way to enjoy a walk in the Forest this spring see newforestnpa.gov.uk/walksapp

4. Spot wildlife. The New Forest is a world capital for wildlife thanks to its unique mosaic of habitats including forest, coast, heathland, and boggy mires.

There are lots of places where you stand a chance of seeing some of the national park’s amazing species from butterflies, to reptiles and deer, not forgetting the ponies, cattle and donkeys which roam free.

* Find the best places to spot wildlife at newforestnpa.gov.uk/spotwildlife