On April 17th, The Peak District National Park reaches the grand old age of 60.

And what better way to celebrate this great event than by pulling on your walking boots and taking a trip to the region?

In 1951, the Peak District became Britain's first ever national park, (although it was swiftly followed by the creation of the Lake District, Snowdonia and Dartmoor).

Over the years the park has cemented itself as a favourite among its thousands of residents and the millions of visitors it attracts.

The park is rolling out its diamond anniversary celebrations, and has a whole range of activities planned over the weekend of April 16th and 17th.

These include guided walks, mountain scrambles, a trig point challenge and free navigation sessions.

Some of its famous friends have also popped up to talk about the park. Actor and adventurer Brian Blessed said: "I grew up in the South Yorkshire coalfield near Doncaster and have known the Peak District since I was a boy; for me it is the centre of the earth.

"I love its high rocky edges, its wild moorland vistas, its dramatic hillsides and hidden valleys. It's on the doorstep for millions yet you can escape the hordes and make your own adventure."

Indeed - you don't just have to attend one of these events to celebrate the Peak District reaching the big 6-0.

Why not head there independently and enjoy activities like walking, cycling, horse riding and climbing, and make your own adventure?