Free outdoor events to celebrate The Brecks this September

Over 50 events, many of which will be free, will celebrate the fifth and final year of The Brecks’ Fen Edge & Rivers Landscape Partnership Scheme.

From accessible walks around the River Lark to yoga, from identifying wildlife to outdoor swimming, a huge range of activities for all ages and abilities is planned.

The Brecks’ Fen Edge & Rivers Landscape Partnership Scheme began in 2020, following a five year grant of £1.97 million from The National Lottery Heritage Fund. Using the money raised by the National Lottery players, the project has been creating positive and lasting change for people and communities in and around The Brecks.

A small partnership delivery team hosted by Suffolk County Council has facilitated successful management of the project, bringing together more than 60 local, regional and national groups, as well as many volunteers - all with a central vision and plan.

Councillor Philip Faircloth-Mutton, Suffolk County Council’s Cabinet Member for Environment, Communities and Equality, said:

“For five years, a wonderful, growing network of organisations has worked together to create outdoor opportunities and conservation projects, showcasing the magic and history of The Brecks – all whilst helping to protect and enhance the local environment.

“With the scheme coming to an end in December, we have been working closely with Norfolk County Council on plans to protect the future of The Brecks.

“September’s festival will celebrate The Brecks and offer a huge variety of activities in this special place, giving people a chance to walk, run, cycle, swim in organised events, attend educational talks, or learn new skills.”

The Brecks is an invaluable part of the UK’s landscape, covering nearly 400 square miles:

• Over 40% of the landscape is covered by conservation areas
• Nearly 13,000 species have been recorded in the area
• 28% of the UK’s rarest species are found there
• It contains Thetford Forest and Kings Forest, making the largest lowland forest in the UK
• It is home to eight registered parks and gardens, 157 scheduled monuments and over 1,000 listed buildings

The festival runs from 7 to 22 September 2024, the full programme of events can be found at www.brecks.org