You can tune in to watch newborn lambs, busy sheepdogs and plodding cows across farms in Scotland every day this week, thanks to Go Rural's virtual #Lambathon.
The seven-day event will kick-start on Saturday 11th April. Every day, a different farm and its 'Lambassador' will broadcast what they're up to on the farm, providing a unique glimpse into rural Scottish life. Viewers can join the Go Rural Facebook page every day at 2pm for their daily update, until Friday 17th April.
It's the first time Go Rural has arranged a digital event that enables various businesses to support each other. They also want to raise awareness of the importance of agriculture and of course share their wonderful animals with everyone stuck at home.
"As loveable new lambs are making an appearance around the Easter weekend, #Lambathon is a fun and informative virtual way for families and those interested in country life to get a glimpse of working on a Scottish farm, all from the comfort of their own homes – as well as hopefully being able to spot a cute lamb being fed," the team tell Country Living.
"Each broadcast will feature 'Lambassadors' talking about their farm, their animals and they'll do their best to answer questions during and after each programme. It is hoped that fans will be inspired to have fun down on the farm, once it is safe to do so."
Some Scottish farms have already been sharing pre-recorded videos of what's been happening over the last few weeks, including the wobbly first steps of a newborn lamb in Jedburgh, in the Scottish Borders.
More good news stories:
- Calling all knitters! The RSPCA need blankets for their adorable rescue kittens
- The RSPB launch Breakfast Birdwatch and it's the perfect way to start your day
- A herd of mountain goats has taken over a Welsh town
In need of some positivity, heartwarming countryside news and spring gardening advice? Sign up to our free Country Living newsletter for your weekly dose of escapism.
11 pretty picnic blankets for outdoor dining in style
This M&S foldaway picnic rug leans into the popular 1970s interior trend with its punchy colour combination and retro-inspired chequered print.
Pair it with the matching serving tray and snack bowls for a coordinated dining scheme.
This blanket’s tropical print makes it a fitting choice for summer — mainly as it’s reminiscent of sunny holidays relaxing on the beach.
Earthy tones will complement the green motif, so style it with a woven picnic basket and wooden dinnerware for a rustic look.
This blanket, part of Dunelm’s ongoing collaboration with the National History Museum, is designed to celebrate the wonders of the natural world.
Its vibrant print will create a cheerful and inviting atmosphere for garden gatherings and family picnics. Style it with simple, minimalist tableware so that the eye-catching pattern remains the focal point.
This blanket’s rainbow stripes add a modern twist to the classic Herringbone pattern, making for a stand-out piece.
Mismatched dinnerware in various colours will add to the fun, or stick to neutral accessories to make the multi-coloured print pop.
Mountain Warehouse’s patterned picnic blanket is ideal for camping or hiking — it's lightweight, easy to carry around and folds up compactly.
Its playful puppy print will appeal to dog lovers, whether you’re treating yourself or gifting a fellow pet owner.
This hardy picnic blanket is both stylish and practical, allowing you to set up your meal just about anywhere! It's lightweight and can roll up into a bag meaning it's easy to move around. And it's also waterproof, meaning no one needs to get soggy if you're sat on damp grass or sand.
Helpfully, there's also a hole in the middle for a parasol or umbrella, and best of all, this can be machine washed.
Experts in teatime treats and alfresco dining, Fortnum & Mason knows how to make a quality picnic blanket.
In the luxury department store's signature Eau De Nil colourway, this one is crafted from pure new wool — a durable fabric that can withstand frequent use and is naturally resistant to odours, making it easy to clean and maintain.
Pair it with a famous Fortnum’s food hamper for a fancy picnic.
Beachwear brand BukawaSwim has meticulously considered every detail on this picnic blanket, from using upcycled materials and non-toxic dyes to its citrus design inspired by the French Riveria.
It's also reversible, so you can easily switch between the pretty orange design and a neutral green, while the tasselled border adds some extra texture and interest.
Oliver Bonas is one of our go-to retailers for eclectic, quirky homeware — so, naturally, we can’t resist the brand’s outdoor collection. This picnic rug, complete with a playful checked pattern and contrasting colours, will add a splash of colour to any alfresco setup.
For a fresh and modern look, style it with white or grey dinnerware — or embrace the colourful aesthetic by adding pops of pink and yellow to your picnic arrangement.
At two metres long, this extra large picnic blanket will allow you to spread out food, drinks and other picnic essentials without feeling cramped. Its sand-proof backing makes it suitable for beach days, making it easy to brush off excess sand once you pack up – and it's very affordable, too.
Lisa Joyner is the Deputy Daily Editor at House Beautiful UK and Country Living UK, where she's busy writing about home and interiors, gardening, dog breeds, pets, health and wellbeing, countryside news, small space inspiration, and the hottest properties on the market. Previously, she has written for Conde Nast Traveller, House & Garden and Marie Claire magazine. Lisa studied at University For The Creative Arts, where she completed a BA in Fashion Journalism.
