THERE’S so much to do in Frome over the summer – and lots of it is free. That’s the message from Frome Town Council which has produced a run-down of the ten best things to do locally which won’t cost you a penny.
“It doesn’t have to be a chore to find free and fun things to do this summer – we’ve done all the searching for you,” says council administrator Rebecca Krzyzosiak
“Whether you’re a local parent struggling to entertain the kids or a tourist on a tight budget, there’s something for everyone.”
Here is the council’s top ten free things to do over the summer.
1. Wander among the wildlife
Whether you’re a keen ambler or just want to know more about the local wildlife, FROGS’ events are a great way to get to spend the day learning more about the local countryside and its residents. Run by a community of volunteers, all walks are free to the public and perfect for all ages to enjoy. You can even get involved with making bat and bird boxes!
You can find out more about FROGS over on their website – www.frome frogs.org.uk
2. Picnic in the park
Victoria Park was created in 1887 to celebrate Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee. To this day, the park boasts a traditional thatched bandstand despite undergoing developments to include a cafe and to improve the play equipment in the Mary Baily Playing Field beside it.
3. Step back in time
Just outside of Frome, the ruins of a beautiful moated castle stands in the village of Nunney. The castle was built by Sir John de la Mere in the 14th century and although it is now owned and maintained by English Heritage, it is free for the public to enjoy.
We think it’s a great place for historians, photographers and curious visitors to explore.
If you’d like to find out more about Nunney Castle, visit www.visitnunney .com /index.php/nunney-castle/
4. Find out about Frome
The Frome Museum is run solely by volunteers who are passionate about the town of Frome and its history – which is a rich tapestry of events and people. Though the museum relies on donations, it always has interesting exhibitions among the information and records of the changing industries of Frome. There are even free town walks available during the summer!
To find out about the Museum’s current exhibition, just check out their website – https://frome museum.wordpress.com
5. Appreciate unique artwork
Black Swan Arts has been home to many exciting exhibitions over the years, including an Aardman display that gave students and visitors a unique insight into what animation is like behind the scenes. In their free summer exhibition, Mel Day reveals her latest project – Postcards from an Ordinary Childhood.
The Black Swan Arts website – www.blackswan. org.uk – is chock full of information, so be sure to take full advantage of this great and inspiring space!
6. Hike up a hill
Cley Hill was once a part of the Longleat estate, but now it’s open to the public and brilliant for adventurers of all kinds. With clear views of the sky, Cley Hill is regarded as an ideal destination for stargazing enthusiasts.
Come prepared with a flask of something warm and lots of spare time to gaze at the night sky. Some might even say it’s the perfect date…
More information on Cley Hill can be found on the National Trust website – www.nationaltrust.org.uk /cley-hill/visitor-infor mation/
7. Let the little ones loose
Welshmill came under development last month, and now includes a brand new play trail! With a recently installed bike track and exciting wooden play apparatus, your little ones will be kept amused for hours. There’s plenty of space to sit and relax too, making it an ideal place for a picnic.
To find out more about Welshmill Play Area, head over to Frome Town Council’s website – www.frome towncouncil.gov.uk/parks-and-open-spaces/welshmill/
8. Go wild swimming
With so many beautiful countryside scenes around the local area, why not indulge in a dip in a stretch of the River Frome?
Farleigh Hungerford allows locals and visitors alike to enjoy a swim in safe areas of the river. Just make sure to adhere to the safety signs around the site, and swim only in the designated area. Oh – and don’t forget to take a towel!
Head over to Wild Swimming’s site for more information -= www.wild swimming.co.uk/map/farleigh-hungerford- frome/
9. Beat a board game
When was the last time you sat down with friends and played a good old board game? The Wassail Games Club is open to new members and meets every Thursday to play a wide range of card and board games at the George Hotel. It’s completely free to join, so come along and have a go at gaming the old-school way.
For more information, visit https://sites.google .com/site/wassailgames club/
10. Get crafty
Claire Yeoman is giving local children the chance to learn new skills in a number of free summer sessions. The sessions take place every Tuesday at alternating locations around Frome between 10am to 12pm, so make sure to clear your diary for some colourfully creative fun. Your kids will be able to get crafty with their friends, and yes, it’s all for free!
To find out more, head over to the Discover Frome What’s On page – www.discoverfrome.co.uk/
There are so many great activities to get involved with in and around the town. If you’re hungry for more, you can check out the Discover Frome website to keep track of all the exciting activities coming soon to Frome!
