A swantastic weekend of family fun is coming to Abbotsbury this summer.

Abbotsbury Swannery’s Summer Fair will take place on Saturday, August 13 and Sunday, August 14 from 10am to 4pm both days.

The two-day event will feature stalls, games and special displays, with plenty of activities for children.

Charlie Wheeler, swannery manager, said: “We are very excited to be holding the Abbotsbury Swannery Summer Fair this year.

“The weekend will be fun packed with lots of food, drink and craft stalls, stationary engines, classic cars and children's activities and of course we have our wonderful swans and other wildlife, pedal go-karts and living willow swan maze.

“And the best part is that visitors get all of this, plus entry to the Swannery, for a reduced rate, making the weekend even more special.”

Members of Dorset Food & Drink will be on hand showcasing their wares and local crafts and photography will also be on sale.

The Swannery Coffee Shop will be serving refreshments throughout the fair, and there are plenty of spots to enjoy a picnic around the Wild Meadow.

The swannery itself was established in the 11th century by Benedictine monks, who farmed the swans for food, now it isn’t unusual to see the swan population in Abbotsbury double in June and July, when moulting swans become flightless and seek sanctuary.

In November and December, the population triples when freshwater weeds are dying off and hundreds of other swans come to Abbotsbury to feed on the plentiful eelgrass.

Tickets for the event are £7 for adults and £5 for children and can be bought at the gate or in advance at: www.abbotsburyswannery.co.uk