DESPITE the frost and cold visitors have been trying something new in the outdoors throughout January.

At weekends throughout January at Brockhampton estate, near Bromyard, visitors have been trying out Nordic walking.

A spokesman said: " It is a great way of making every walk a fun workout. Using long poles Nordic walking is great for gently building up core strength, using the poles means walkers can burn up to 46 per cent more calories than regular walking. Using the walking poles, which are provided as part of the taster sessions, also helps to improve posture and provides a balanced workout, evenly working both the left and right sides of the body at once."

The spokesman added: "Combine this with the beautiful landscapes and views to be found at Brockhampton estate and this is surely one of the most inspiring New Year activities on offer. The wildlife that lives around the estate is much easier to spot at this time of year because the trees are bare and the animals are out and about hungrily searching for food. The groups of up to 14 people will be guided around the estate by Nordic walking instructor and expert Zoe from Brightstripe Cultural health starting at 11am."

Further sessions are planned for March "when the weather improves".

The spokesman added: "Visitors to the moated manor house are also taking inspiration from the lives of the family that lived here during the 1950s with paper boat making in the 1950s lounge.

"Simple paper boats are great fun and defy belief as a piece of paper is able to float on the beautiful moat that surrounds the medieval manor house. Visitors can also share memories and top tips on how to make the perfect paper boat and warm up by the open fire."

Further details on, 01885 482077.