VISITORS to a 3,440-hectare beauty spot will be able to learn about its history this weekend.

Dalby Forest, near Pickering, North Yorkshire, will host ‘Dalbyology’, on Saturday.

Back in the days when dinosaurs roamed the earth, more than 150 million years ago, Dalby’s climate was about the same as it is today in the Caribbean.

Much of the land was under 20 fathoms of water and exotic corals grew – the fossilised remains of which survive in the wood for ramblers to see.

These and more facts about North Yorkshire’s landscape and wildlife will emerge at the popular event, hosted by the Forestry Commission, which will shed light on a whole host of ‘ologies’ from ornithology to geology, with themed crafts, activities, walks and wildlife displays to enjoy.

Organiser Carol Robinson said: "This year’s theme is life cycles, like the way orchids and fungi get together to help each other thrive and the way tadpoles become hopping creatures with bulging eyes and a croaky throat."

In total nearly 20 ‘ologies will be showcased at Dalby, but organisers need the public’s help to come up with one more.

Taking the theme of life cycle literally, there’ll be a chance to go for a spin on a mountain bike, inspect vintage cycles and learn more about the early history and science of pedal power.

But it’s a subject without a name so there’ll be a competition to come up with a suitable ‘ology’ moniker.

The event is free and based at Dalby Forest Visitor Centre. However, the forest toll still applies to cars. Activities run from 10.30am to 4pm. For more information call 01751-460295, or visit forestry.gov.uk/yorkshireandthehumber