The following correction was printed in the Observer's For the record column, Sunday April 15 2007

Even the most dedicated ornithologist would have difficulty in catching 'a glimpse of an eagle' in Haldon Forest Park, Devon as stated in the article below. Eagles are confined to Cumbria and Scotland; a buzzard would be more likely.

Leicester

A major exhibition, 'Ortonesque', at Leicester's New Walk Museum and Art Gallery, celebrates the life and times of playwright Joe Orton, marking the 40th anniversary of his death. Today, there is a unique opportunity to take a tour of the exhibition with the playwright's sister and hear the stories behind the objects on display (such as his Moroccan diaries and his typewriter). Afterwards enjoy a two-course lunch at the Belmont House Hotel, a five-minute walk from the museum. £18 for tour and lunch. (0116 252 9618; www.leicester.gov.uk/joeorton)

Hampshire

Arrive in Brockenhurst by train to avoid the queues, hire a bike and within minutes you could be exploring the New Forest where deer, cattle and ponies roam freely. Don't miss the Ornamental Drive where you may catch some early spring flowers between the great oaks and beech trees. Afterwards, take the Heritage Line to Lymington, where the Isle of Wight is a short ferry ride away. Mountain bike hire £14 adult, £8 child. (01590 622627; www.countrylanes.co.uk)

London

From big budget features to docu-soaps, there is something to suit all tastes at the National Film Theatre. At the time of going to press there was still lots of availability for films, including The Sun of the Quince Tree, the outrageous El Topo, Dracula AD and The Holy Mountain playing on Easter Monday. £8.60 (020 7928 3232; www.bfi.org.uk)

Norfolk

The beautifully renovated 18th-century Sussex Barn in Burnham Market is the venue for a fine art and antiques fair today. Look out for bargains, objets d'art, or a beautiful collector's piece at this event which is now in its seventh year. 10.30am-5pm, admission is £3.50. (01379 586134; www.lomaxantiquesfairs.co.uk)

Cumbria

Test your wits on a new cycle trail that will test your brain as well as your pedal power in Grizedale Forest Park. The Mushroom Cycle Trail is a great way for the family to enjoy some exercise in a beautiful natural environment. Giant, brightly coloured mushrooms mark the way as you cycle along paths that weave through the woods, offering amazing views of lakes and mountains along the way. Each mushroom offers a clue that helps you crack the trail's secret code. (01223 314546; www.forestry.gov.uk)

Scotland

West Kilbride is Scotland's official craft and design town, boasting several unique studios with a range of bespoke products for you to browse or purchase, from pottery, fashion and jewellery to unique commissions from highly acclaimed designers. The town is located on Scotland's beautiful and rugged west coast so you could combine a spot of browsing with a spectacular walk. (01294 829179; www.westkilbride.org.uk)

Staffordshire

Biddulph Grange Gardens in Biddulph, Staffordshire is a rare example of a Victorian garden. Stroll around the tunnels and pathways that lead the visitor on a miniature tour of the world. Rare and exotic planting and architecture, from an Egyptian court to elegant Italian terraces, transport you to faraway lands. Curiosities include an upside down tree and strange stone sculptures. Open today and tomorrow. £5.45 adult, £2.72 child. (01782 517999; www.nationaltrust.org.uk)

Wales

Brecon Beacon's National Park in Wales is the perfect spot for walking off those Easter eggs. You can stroll through sleepy valleys, wander alongside sparkling lakes, or simply amble to the nearest pub and back. Cycling is another option as are more adventurous pursuits of caving, climbing, abseiling and gorge walking. Download the Wildlife Walks booklet from www.breconbeacons.org or call 01874 623366.

Nationwide

For gardening inspiration why not visit one of the gardens in the National Gardens Scheme's legendary Yellow Book. More than 90 gardens across the UK, most of them private, will be opening their gates over the weekend, from romantic cottage gardens to terraced vegetable gardens. Admission charges vary, but most of the money goes to charity. (01483 211535; www.ngs.org.uk)

London

Take an alternative route around London on a canal boat, avoiding the crowds. A daily service operates from 11am-4pm, from Little Venice (an oasis of leafy calm), Camden Lock (not so calm, but featuring vibrant markets, the Proud Gallery, celeb-spotting) and London Zoo (you can combine admission with a waterbus ticket for £12). No booking is necessary. Tickets from £2.50. (020 7482 2550; www.londonwaterbus.com)

Somerset

If it rains, spend today at Wookey Hole, the vast and mysterious cave complex close to Wells, Somerset, that has been attracting tourists for nearly a hundred years. As well as the famous caves, you can take a walk in the fairy garden through which the river Axe flows, and wander around the magical mirror maze, one of several old Victorian fairground eccentricities on display. Adults £12.50. Children £9.50 (01749 672243; www.wookey.co.uk)

Reading

Piles of retro fun is to be had at the Incredible Indoor Jumble Sale being held today at the uber-cool Oakford Social Club in Reading (opposite the station). Rummage for rare finds among the old records, vintage clothes, kitsch and obscure bric-a-brac. You can set up your own stall if you've got some trinkets you want to part with for beer money, or tuck into the £6 Sunday roasts that come with a Bloody Mary. Stay into the night for live music from the Friendly Fires. (0118 959 4267; www.oakfordsocialclub.com)

London

If you're a fan of chocolate, The Spa at Chancery Court in London has a good-enough-to-eat facial, a scrummy mixture of frothy chocolate and vanilla milkshake cleanser, tiramisu, and a milk chocolate and mousse mask to provide a stimulating, energising and protective facial treatment with anti-ageing and anti-stress properties. Launching just in time for Easter, the ChocoEnergy facial lasts one hour and fifteen minutes, costs £100 and you won't put on a pound. (020 7829 9888; www.spachancerycourt.com)

North Yorkshire

Dalby Forest, North Yorkshire is holding an unusual race tomorrow. Place your bets on the 'duck dash' - first rubber duck down the beck is the winner. Tickets are available on the day (£1) and there will be prizes for the winners. Make a day of it and bring a picnic, or visit the Purple Mountain Cafe with locally sourced food. The Purple Mountain Bike Centre offers cycle hire. Dogs are welcome. (01751 472771; www.forestry.gov.uk)

Devon

The Haldon ridge lies just south of Exeter and rises to a height of 250m above sea level. Haldon Forest Park is a haven for birds of prey (you can sometimes catch a glimpse of an eagle) and home to more than 30 species of butterfly. Thirty miles of new trails are available for you to explore on bike, by foot, or on horseback. The 'Play Trail,' is an all-ability trail with traditional and natural play features. Horse riders have their own exclusive area with almost 10 miles of trails. The Green Box Food Company is open today and tomorrow. (01392 834251; www.forestry.gov.uk)

Galway

If you are near Galway over the Easter weekend and need cheering up, why not catch the final days of the Galway Comedy Festival? At the time of going to press there was still availability for today and tomorrow and you can buy tickets on the door. Shows take place in various venues across the city, Shazia Mirza performs at Comedy Club Cuba on Monday evening with special guest Patrick Monahan. Tickets £12.50. (www.galwaycomedyfestival.com)

London

If you are looking for a fun place for a meal out over the next couple of days, the Rainforest Cafe, Piccadilly Circus will entertain children while they munch and hopefully parents will enjoy the experience too. The nutritious menu with organic options is served in recreated tropical surroundings, complete with the sights and sounds of the rainforest. The special effects extend to thunder and lightening and tropical rain showers. (020 7434 3111; www.therainforestcafe.co.uk)