Cyclists, walkers and nature lovers have long had an affectionate relationship with Bedgebury National Pinetum. Families who know it less well can go to the Forest Discovery Day and try some outdoor vocations while finding out about the vital role its trees and woods play in everyone’s life.

Established as the National Conifer Collection in 1925, the forest near Goudhurst is now recognised as the most complete collection of conifers on one site anywhere in the world.

The collection has more than 10,000 trees growing across 320 acres including rare, endangered and historically important specimens. It is home to 56 vulnerable or critically endangered species.

Visitors can take aim in archery sessions at the discovery day on Sunday, September 11, and have a go at lots of other activities.

Traditional forest activities like guided walks and cycle tours will be supported by cycle coaching, bike checks and a camouflage and colour walk.

Cool stuff like den building, axe demonstrations and the Go Ape! course will draw a few 'woahs’ and widen a few young eyes.

Meanwhile, parents can learn about the cultivation, management and study of individual trees, shrubs, vines called arboriculture.

The Wadhurst Brass Band will provide a soundtrack to proceedings and families can follow an autumn trail.

A photo exhibition from the Electric Forest will give a taster of how the pinetum will look when the exhibit arrives next month.

The event is being held as part of the Forestry Commission’s national celebration of the UN International Year of Forests. Consequentially, there will be a national tree hug at 2pm at all forests run by the commission.

Anyone taking a map stick walk will wonder the site and record what they see by tying items found at different points of the journey to a stick.

Other things going on include a climate change display, Mondraker cycle demonstrations, green gym, Nordic walking taster sessions and a drum circle.

The day also marks the fifth anniversary of the Bedgebury Project, which has seen it grow into an award-winning and much-loved local recreational and educational resource for South East England.

Admission at Bedgebury is free. However, parking is £8.50 per car and some activities have a charge. Call 01580 879820.