IT may always be destined to rain every time we visit Birdworld. 

But for our second trip of the year, following a great day out in half term for its Halloween activities, you guessed it - the sky is grey and it's drizzling. 

However, young kids don't really tend to care that it's raining, especially when there are puddles to jump in, birds to look at and fun things to do. 

We put on our winter coats, pulled up our hoods, and made the most of an afternoon at the family attraction, near Farnham, just over the Hampshire border. 

It has launched its Christmas activities, with a marquee and stage set up near the temperate house. 

Basingstoke Gazette: Eddie at Birdworld near Farnham which has launched its Christmas activities

There are live shows running throughout the day telling the story of Santa and the Polar Express and Horatio the Polar Bear. 

Two elves introduce Horatio, before the big man appears in a gust of ho ho hos. 

There's a chance to grab a picture with Santa and his elves before we set off around the park. 

The show is quite simple, with an easy-to-understand storyline, but the children love it. Any excuse to see Santa is always a winner for my two children, aged four and six. 

@basingstokegazette Birdworld near Farnham has launched its Christmas event - the last themed event of a successful year at the park #christmas2023🎄🎁 ♬ Christmas standard song - 3KTrack

We take a walk around to look at the birds after, the owls are magnificent, and the flamingoes are so colourful. 

There are penguins, parrots and pheasants, plus many more species to learn about. There are lots of talks scheduled throughout the day, so time your visit right to catch the penguins or the owls being fed too. 

Basingstoke Gazette: The Christmas elves at Birdworld near Farnham has launched its Christmas activities

A trip to Birdworld is educational as well as fun. It's also great exercise to walk round the park spotting the birds, and around the farm, and we enjoy being out in the fresh air - even if it is raining. 

The Christmas shows will be on next weekend too - Saturday, December 9 and Sunday, December 10, with the park open 10am until 4.30pm. 

With the kids breaking up from school on December 15 this year, there's a whole week to fill before the big day, and Birdworld will be open from Saturday, December 16 right up until Sunday, December 24. 

Basingstoke Gazette: Kimberley Barber and her children Eddie and Rosanna at Birdworld near Farnham

I am sure most people will be looking for something fun and educational that wears out little legs, and a trip to Birdworld makes an interesting day out for all ages. Who knows? You might even spot the two turtle doves. 

Day tickets cost £19.95 for adults and £15.95 for children. The festivities are included for free with the price of a standard entry ticket and will be aimed at children up to eight years old.

Annual tickets cost £59.95 for an adult, with children at £45.95, and with unlimited trips, make great value for people who live nearby. 

For more details, or to book a ticket, contact Birdworld at 01420 22140 or visit birdworld.co.uk.