Why not pack your outdoor equipment and head to the Peak District next weekend? After all, it's the park's birthday party.

On Sunday April 17th the Peak District reaches the grand old age of 60 and a range of events will be held across the weekend.

Enjoy a charity walk in Saturday April 16th, launched by former Blue Peter presenter Simon Groom. Beginning from Thornbridge Hall, Ashford-in-the-Water, walkers have a choice of two circular routes on the Monsal Trail. All proceeds go the Friends of the Peak District.

Fancy brushing up on your navigation skills? Learn the basics of the map and compass on a six to eight mile walk led by national park rangers across rough moorland and tracks at Big Moor.

On the Sunday, enjoy a cycling session at the Agricultural Business Centre in Bakewell. This free event offers starter sessions for complete beginners and road confidence and skills sessions for families or groups.

Up for something a little tougher? Try out a trig point challenge. Complete a 12-mile walk taking in three trig points, Shining Tor, Burbage and Axe Edge. Be warned, though, this is a difficult walk over rough ground, so equip your trip with some hiking footwear.

Talking about the Peak District's birthday celebrations, park chief executive Jim Dixon said: "National Parks are for everyone. We want people to join us in our 60th anniversary celebrations and enjoy the events being offered throughout the Peak District.

"Whether you take part in an organised event or go out under your own steam for a walk, bike ride, horse ride, climb or sail, the main thing is that everyone takes the opportunity to appreciate this much-loved landscape."

This month, the UK's newest national park, South Downs, was formally unveiled.