Fancy that! Today is a day of the year especially dedicated to Teddy Bear Picnics. My daughter would love that.
Do you remember the lyrics of the song that begins:
If you go down in the woods today, you're sure of a big surprise
If you go down in the woods today, you'd better go in disguise!
For every bear that ever there was, will gather there for certain
Because today's the day the Teddy Bears have their picnic...
Does the song conjure up lots of memories?
Do you have a treasured Teddy Bear (or soft toy) that you hold dear?
I think it's never too late - too old or too young - to own or value a Teddy Bear. My Grandma loved them and they brought a smile to her face in her later years, and what can be wrong with that?
So with my trusted Doggy in hand and an armful of my daugther's teddies, I'll be in search of somewhere today for a picnic.
Here are a few picnic spots in or near the Yorkshire Dales that are a good choice (with or without your Teddy Bears...)
Bolton Abbey - Popular for good reason, Bolton Abbey occupies a stunning setting adjacent to the River Wharfe. With paddling spots and stepping stones it is a fun place to have a splash around after your picnic. I'm sure your Teddy Bears will enjoy the view.
Burnsall - Also popular, with the River Wharfe passing through the village, the Green in Burnsall is a great picnic spot.
Barden Moor - The road rises as you gain height on the drive from the village of Eastby to Barden. As you reach the highest point there are places to pull off the road with your car and take in the awesome views across the Bolton Abbey Estate, to Beamsley Beacon and the Wharfe Valley. A quick picnic lunch here is certainly a scenic one. Take care of passing traffic.
Malham Cove - Your reward for climbing the steps to the top of Malham Cove will be the far ranging views from the dramatic limestone pavement at the top. It is a great place to take in the beauty of the countryside looking down the Aire Valley.
Sutton Park - Sutton-in-Craven has an attractive and popular park and playground - perfect for an outing with young families and for taking Teddy Bears along too. With a bowling green, play equipment for different ages and a paddling pool in the summer too, there is much to be enjoyed.
The Garden - If you're lucky enough to have your own garden, a picnic at home can be one of the nicest places to be. From our garden we hear the bleating of sheep in the fields, birdsong and sometimes the sound of the trees blowing in the wind.
And if it's raining?
Well, the world of make-believe can be in full swing with a Living Room Picnic. All you need is a picnic rug, some delicious picnic food, a few plates and a vivid imagination.
If you're having a Teddy Bears Picnic today, where will you have yours?