Summer is here and there's a packed calendar of events in July with the start of the Summer Holidays. We'll highlight our top events this month along with the best gardens and places to visit to help you make the most of your spare time.

There's an in depth listing of what's on in the week ahead on our Events This Week page. It's crammed full with even more ideas for things to do and is updated weekly. If you would like to receive our monthly newsletter including an overview of what's on, reviews and more, just let us have your email address here.

Rothbury Traditional Music Festival
A highlight of the Festival scene in July is the annual Rothbuy Traditional Music Festival which takes over the Village of Rothbury for a whole weekend. Taking place from Friday 19th July to Sunday 21st July 2013 there will be plenty of live music, an open stage and other community events in this beautiful Village location. See their website for more info.

Cinema and the Arts
Sat 13th & 14th July 2013 10am to 4pm
Northern English Springer Spaniel Rescue's annual Summer Fundraiser, held at the fantastic Druridge Bay Country Park in Northumberland. Lots to do for all the family, both two legged and four, gundog activities, flyball demonstration, fun dog show, stalls, help raise much needed funds for a long standing, busy charity. Druridge Bay Country Park NE61 5BX

Northumberland Wildlife Trust Events
Thursday 18 July 10.30-12noon
Animal signs, tracks and trails
Location: Leaplish Waterside Park, Kielder
http://www.nwt.org.uk/events/2013/07/18/northumberland-wildlife-trust-animal-signs-tracks-trails

Thursday 25 July 10am and 10.30am
Pond dipping
Location: Leaplish Waterside Park, Kielder
http://www.nwt.org.uk/events/2013/07/25/northumberland-wildlife-trust-pond-dipping