SCHOOLS i have broken up for the long summer holiday so the prospect of thinking of things to do and places to go for family days out is looming large.

Take time to visit Stroud's Museum in the Park where there's always plenty to capture the imagination. Until August 21, an exhibition is under way called Pharma's Market: A Livestock and Produce Show by the acclaimed mosaic artist Cleo Mussi, who has her studio in Stroud.

Inspiration for the show is taken from agricultural fairs and includes life size farm animals, produce, farmers and milk maids. It's an everyday story of country folk, but in ceramics. Take a look for yourself.

While you're at the museum, be sure to see the latest exhibit. It's a 1929 Baughan motorcycle built in Stroud and fitted with a sidecar.

If you get your skates on you may be able to try your hand at geophysical surveying, like our Phil with the hat and his mates on Time Team. The event takes place tomorrow between 10am and 4pm at Haresfield Common and is part of the Festival of British Archaeology. Details are available from the organiser on 01452 425 705.

One of the joys of summer is Gifford's Circus, an entrancing and delightfully nostalgic entertainment involving horses, ducks and extraordinary people.

Gifford's big top is pitched on the green at Frampton-on-Severn until Sunday then moves on to Minchinhampton Common until August 17. Find out more by going to www.giffordscircus.com.

Stroud has one of the finest open air swimming pools you'll find anywhere in the country. It's just the place to take the family, with picnic hamper at the ready. When the sun shines you're guaranteed a lovely time and with entrance charges £2.80 for adults and £1.55 for children, it's a family day that won't break the bank.

Gatcombe Horse Trials take place on August 6, 7 and 8 at the home of the Princess Royal. As well as a weekend of top class eventing there will be a shopping village, arena attractions and entertainment for all the family. To book in advance, call the box office by this Friday on 0843 208 7455.

Shakespeare fans have the chance to see The Tempest presented in the grounds of the spooky Woodchester Mansion on Friday August 27 at 6pm.

The production is by The Festival Players Theatre Company and tickets, priced £15, are available from the mansion shop on open days or Stroud Subscription Rooms on 01453 760 900.

Arrive early and take a picnic. If the weather is unkind the action will take place in the mansion's drawing room, which should lend a Hammer Horror-like backdrop to the performance.

Two dates for all tipplers' diaries are August 27 and 28 when more than 100 real ales are promised to be on tap at Frocester Cricket Club's Beer Festival. One of the most popular events of this kind in the area, there's live music on offer and if you really mean to get into the spirit of the thing you can camp for free. Tickets cost £10.