Families looking for something different to do this half term are being invited to step back in time and discover the Isle of Wight’s remarkable prehistoric history at Fort Victoria.
The popular sessions, organised by the Isle of Wight Council’s Ranger Service, will give children and adults the chance to explore one of the Island’s most fascinating stretches of coastline.
Visitors can join guided fossil hunts, discover marine wildlife through rock pooling sessions and learn more about the creatures that lived here millions of years ago.
A special Fossil Fun Day will take place at Fort Victoria, near Yarmouth, on Monday 26th October, beginning with a free drop-in event from 11:00 to 13:00 in the Corner Room.
Visitors will be able to learn about fossils found locally, including ancient fish, turtles and crocodiles, discover more about the animals that once roamed the area, and even bring along their own fossil finds for identification.
The day will continue with a guided fossil hunt at 14:00, led by the Ranger Service and renowned fossil expert Dr Martin Munt, giving participants the opportunity to search the beach for evidence of the Island’s prehistoric past.
The Fossil Fun Day forms part of a wider programme of half-term fossil hunting and rock pooling sessions taking place throughout the week.
Guided walks, with visitors able to join the Ranger to explore the shoreline and discover what treasures the tide has revealed, will be held on:
- Wednesday 21st October at 13:30
- Thursday 22nd October at 14:00
- Friday 23rd October at 14:00
- Monday 26th October at 14:00
- Tuesday 27th October at 14:30
Dr Martin Munt will also be joining the Ranger Service on selected dates throughout the programme, offering visitors the opportunity to learn more about the Island’s internationally renowned fossil heritage and receive expert help identifying their discoveries.
No booking is required for the guided sessions, with participants simply asked to meet outside the Rangers Office at Fort Victoria. Sessions last between one and one-and-a-half hours and cost £3 per person or £10 per family.
Anita Matheson, Fort Victoria ranger, said:
“Whether you’re an experienced fossil hunter or simply curious about what can be found along our coastline, these sessions provide a fun and educational day out during the half-term break.”
