Yes the country’s first National Park, created back in 1951, celebrates its 63rd birthday and even Google get in on the act with a special doodle, so get your outdoors gear on and make your way for some great views and vistas in our own area of the country. The Peak District covers an extremely diverse landscape and although mainly in Derbyshire, stretches into Greater Manchester, Staffordshire, South Yorkshire and God’s own county Cheshire (no bias from me on that list whatsoever)

It is traditionally split into two areas, the Dark Peak and the White Peak. The Dark Peak contains most of the moorland areas which are basically based in the northern half of the Park where the geology is based on gritstone, and the southern half, the White Peak where the underlying geology is mainly limestone based.

There is lots to see, whether you what to base your self around the more populous areas around Bakewell, Castleton, Buxton and Hathersage, and take in the famous houses such as Chatsworth, or one of the spectacular show caves around Castleton. There is also numerous festivals, not all based on walking, but include various art and culture events and more traditional events such as well dressing and the annual Garland Festival.

For those of us who want to get out into the hills and moors there is lots to experience with numerous trails and walks to suit everyone’s ability. The Peak District Walking and Outdoor Festival takes place from the 26th April to the 11th May and has over 100 events and walks planned, showcasing the very best of the Peak District. The Festival highlights the area's wealth of wonderful landscapes, from rare moorland habitats and scenic limestone dales to attractive towns and pretty villages. It will be the 10th year of the Festival and it provides amazing walks and inspiration to thousands of people living and visiting the Peak District this spring.

Can’t make the Festival then check the other events the Rangers have planned this summer, from an afternoon with the gruffalo to the Species Spotter Challenge. So no excuses grab your outdoors gear and head to the first National Park and see what you can find and experience.