1. FOLLOW THE TOLKIEN TRAIL IN BIRMINGHAM 4. SPOT BEAVERS IN SCOTLAND 2. SAUNTER AT SUNDERLAND’S SOUTER LIGHTHOUSE

Explore the places which inspired the author of Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit on Birmingham’s Tolkien Trail. Maps available from tourist information centres and attractions. birmingham.gov.uk/tolkien

Knapdale Forest in Argyll is where beavers were officially reintroduced to Scotland, and kids can become wildlife detectives on a three-mile circular trail around their wetland home, which begins at Barnluasgan Information Centre. forestryandland.gov.scot/visit/barnluasgan

This striking red and white lighthouse dates from 1871 and was the first to be powered by electricity. It sits on The Leas, limestone cliffs which are home to a host of birdlife. So take the 2.5-mile trail to spot cormorants, guillemots and more. nationaltrust.org.uk