THERE'S plenty of family fun on offer to keep youngsters and adults alike entertained over the Easter holidays at Buckland Abbey.

As part of the National Trust's aim to get youngsters outside and closer to nature, there will be two events which link in with its '50 things to do before you're 11 and three quarters' campaign. There will be pond dipping on Saturday and Sunday (April 6 and 7) where visitors will have the chance to find out what water beasties lurk in the pond, and on April 13 and 14 visitors can get creative with a spot of den building outside on the estate.

Bringing the history of the abbey to life is the role of the dedicated costume group, who sew in one of the house's panelled rooms every Tuesday. On April 9 they will be getting out the glad rags, giving visitors the chance to dress up in their authentic costumes and swan about the place. Guests might also bump into a Tudor archer from the age of the Mary Rose on April 11 and see his display near the Great Barn.

Rounding off the holidays is an event that Buckland Abbey holds close to its heart — Sheep Day. From the time of the monks who built the abbey right up to the present day, there have always been sheep on the estate. Sunday, April 14 will be a day of fun for all the family with sheep, lambs, rural craft demonstrations and Morris dancers.

Visitor experience officer Anwen Roberts said: 'We've got a great mix of events that the whole family can get involved in, both indoors and out. The estate is such a great setting for the kids to let off steam and there are opportunities for the adults to indulge their playful side too.'

Normal admission charges apply to all events, additional charges apply to select events.