Things to do
Choose a category
-
Blog
11 must-know facts about woods and forests in the UK
Woods and forests are mysterious, beautiful and fascinating places. Here are 11 amazing must-know facts about our woods and forests in the UK.
Chris Britt-Searle • 02 May 2024
-
Blog
Environmentally-friendly gardening: 10 top tips
Work with nature to make your garden eco-friendly and cut your environmental impact. Check out our 10 easy tips that are good for wildlife and your wallet too!
Charlie Mellor • 16 Apr 2024
-
Blog
7 woods with surprising stories
From poetry and paintings to books, films and TV, check out these seven woods with surprising connections to the UK’s rich history and culture.
Chris Britt-Searle • 05 Apr 2024
-
Blog
Eco-friendly travel: 10 woods to visit by train
Head off on an eco-friendly woodland adventure that starts with a romantic rail journey.
Kayleigh Jacobs-Rutter • 02 Apr 2024
-
Blog
Woodland Walks podcast with Adam Shaw - Frodsham Woods, Cheshire
Join us for a planting day at Frodsham Woods where a former golf course is transforming into a space for people to enjoy, to fight climate change and help wildlife thrive.
Adam Shaw • 28 Mar 2024
-
Blog
What do hedgehogs eat? And how to feed them
Hedgehogs need our help and you can make a difference. Check out our guide to what food hedgehogs eat, when you should feed them and other useful tips.
Charlie Mellor • 15 Mar 2024
-
Blog
Broadleaf spring issue: a burst of new life
After a soggy start to spring, the world is at last alive with birdsong, bright yellow daffodils and the first flurry of puff-white blossom. Bring on the bluebells!
Elisabeth Crump • 11 Mar 2024
-
Blog
13 hardy plants for your garden
Our pick of hardy plants and trees perfect for any outdoor space. From pretty annual flowers to hard-working, long-lasting evergreens, they're all hardy to at least -15C.
Charlie Mellor • 07 Mar 2024
-
Blog
Wander through history: fascinating ruins and relics in 10 UK woods
Walk back in time and discover heritage sites and historical ruins in some of the UK’s most enthralling woodlands, from ramparts and barrows to abandoned buildings and bomb shelters.
Chris Britt-Searle • 01 Mar 2024
-
Blog
Woodland Walks podcast with Adam Shaw - Sheffield's tree story
At Sheffield's Endcliffe Park, discover how nature and the city have shaped each other over the centuries and why local people are so passionate about trees.
Adam Shaw • 22 Feb 2024
-
Blog
Dedicate in memory: remember a loved one with trees and woodland
Dedicating a tree or woodland provides a living, growing memorial to a loved one and a poignant way of remembering them. Dedications are available in Woodland Trust woods across the UK.
Charlie Mellor • 14 Feb 2024
-
Blog
6 UK woods for stargazing
Escape light pollution and embrace the night sky to enjoy stargazing at a wood near you. Here are our favourite spots to see stars, plus handy stargazing tips.
Chris Britt-Searle • 09 Feb 2024
-
Blog
7 reasons to feel optimistic about February
The darkest days of winter are now behind us and nature is quietly waking up. Here are seven reasons to smile and wave winter woes goodbye.
Helen Keating • 01 Feb 2024
-
Blog
The oldest tree in the UK: how long do trees live?
Discover the oldest tree in the UK - and the world - and why ancient trees are so important.
Charlie Mellor • 29 Jan 2024
-
Blog
Alternative charity gifts for Christmas
Our shop offers a huge variety of gifts with something for everyone for Christmas. Here are our top ideas for alternative charity gifts for the festive season.
Charlie Mellor • 19 Dec 2023
-
Blog
10 ways to help wildlife in winter
Wildlife will appreciate a helping hand in winter. From practical outdoor activities to the comfort of your armchair, check out our ten top tips to make a difference this season.
Charlie Mellor • 07 Dec 2023
-
Blog
Create a cosy winter wonderland: 7 ideas for sustainable and foraged home decor
Discover how to transform your home into a magical winter wonderland. Forage responsibly and intertwine nature and the wild with the warmth of your home.
Helen Keating • 30 Nov 2023
-
Blog
8 handmade Christmas card ideas
Add a personal touch with homemade Christmas cards that are eco-friendly and budget-friendly too. Check out our best ideas that adults and kids can make.
Charlie Mellor • 27 Nov 2023
-
Blog
UK winter wildlife quiz: true or false?
How much do you know about what wildlife gets up to in winter? Test your knowledge with our fun quiz.
Charlie Mellor • 20 Nov 2023
-
Blog
10 best winter woodland walks
Embrace the simpler things in life with a winter woodland walk, when spectacular frosty landscapes and leafless trees reveal hidden history and elusive wildlife. Check out 10 of our favourite woods for inspiration.
Charlie Mellor • 16 Nov 2023
-
Blog
Woodland Walks podcast with Adam Shaw - Tring Park, Hertfordshire
Join us for an autumnal tour of Tring Park to discover fascinating historic features, important trees and the Rothschild's famous exotic animal collection!
Adam Shaw • 03 Nov 2023
-
Blog
Top 10 nature gifts for kids
Nurture a love of nature from an early age with our specially selected range of gifts. From tots to teens, messy to mindful, indoors or out, our green gift guide has something for all the kids on your list.
Charlie Mellor • 26 Oct 2023
-
Blog
7 homemade gift ideas for Christmas
Take a look at our ideas for homemade Christmas gifts that are thoughtful, affordable and easy-to-make.
Charlie Mellor • 12 Oct 2023
-
Blog
Top 10 eco-friendly Christmas gift wrapping ideas
Make Christmas more sustainable with our 10 eco-friendly gift wrapping ideas.
Charlotte Varela • 02 Oct 2023
-
Blog
Woodland Walks podcast with Adam Shaw - Martin Hügi, the 'Tree Pilgrim'
Martin Hügi, the 'Tree Pilgrim', is walking from Land's End to John O'Groats to visit amazing ancient trees. We meet him on day 79 to hear his experience so far.
Adam Shaw • 29 Sep 2023
-
Blog
Top 10 green gifts for gardeners
Looking for eco-friendly inspiration for your favourite gardening guru or want to encourage a beginner? From windowsill pots to established veg plots, our green gift guide has got you covered.
Charlie Mellor • 26 Sep 2023
-
Blog
Broadleaf autumn issue: crunch time!
Our latest members' mag includes seed-seekers hunting for forgotten species, climate change experiments in our woods, wild boar, pine martens, Kate Humble and more.
Elisabeth Crump • 22 Sep 2023
-
Blog
Rare woodland animals and where to find them
Discover some of the UK's rarest woodland animals and where to spot them in the wild.
Annabel Kemp • 21 Sep 2023
-
Blog
Wildlife mythbusting: fact or fiction?
Is there any truth to these popular beliefs about UK plants and animals? From stinging bees to talking trees, the answers might surprise you. Test your knowledge with our ten questions.
Charlie Mellor • 06 Sep 2023
-
Blog
Woodland Walks podcast with Adam Shaw - Priory Grove, Monmouth
Discover the fascinating ancient art of coppicing as we visit Priory Grove in the Wye Valley, where the technique is still practised to benefit people and wildlife.
Adam Shaw • 25 Aug 2023
-
Blog
10 camping activities for kids who love wildlife
Discover 10 wildlife-themed activities for kids and families to enjoy on a camping trip.
Danielle Wesley • 02 Aug 2023
-
Blog
Hollow tree trunks: what are they good for?
Take a step inside a hollow tree and you take a step back through history. A hollowing trunk is a natural process and has benefits for the tree and the creatures that live in them.
Sally Bavin • 28 Jul 2023
-
Blog
10 easy butterfly crafts for kids
Discover 10 colourful butterfly crafts for kids, from simple symmetry paintings to fun mosaic art.
Danielle Wesley • 03 Jul 2023
-
Blog
Broadleaf summer issue: let the sunshine in
Our latest members' mag includes a leafy exploration of gorgeous Heartwood in St Albans, a hike into the Highlands and treetop hideouts with actress Charity Wakefield.
Elisabeth Crump • 26 Jun 2023
-
Blog
10 ways to help wildlife in summer
We can all make a difference for wildlife this season, from a single simple action to an ongoing commitment, at home or further afield. Read our ten top tips.
Charlie Mellor • 12 Jun 2023
-
Blog
Minibeast hunt – top tips for finding bugs
Go on a minibeast hunt with your kids and see how many creepy crawlies you can find. Plus get tips on what to pack in your bug hunting kit.
Danielle Wesley • 26 May 2023
-
Blog
Woodland Walks podcast with Adam Shaw - Yonder Oak Wood, Devon
Join us to discover how this landscape will be transformed to fight climate change and benefit people and wildlife, and what designing a new wood involves.
Adam Shaw • 26 May 2023
-
Blog
Best native hedge plants: choose the right hedges
Autumn and winter are the best times to plant a hedge. To get you started, here are our top 10 recommendations for the best native hedge plants and the amazing benefits they'll bring.
Helen Keating • 23 May 2023
-
Blog
10 best trees to attract birds and other wildlife
Native trees offer birds and other animals vital food and shelter all year round. Boost biodiversity with our top 10 trees suited to small gardens and larger spaces.
Charlie Mellor • 02 May 2023
-
Blog
How to make felt animals: easy step-by-step guide
Follow our simple guide to make your own stuffed woodland animals. This fun craft is ideal for kids and grown-ups alike!
Becca Smith • 28 Apr 2023
-
Blog
Foraging in April: edible wild plants to harvest
April is the time to look out for fresh new greens and herbs to give your food a seasonal springtime boost. Here are seven easy-to-identify edible herbs and plants to look out for.
Helen Keating • 27 Apr 2023
-
Blog
Woodland Walks podcast with Adam Shaw and Tristan Gooley
In our latest episode, natural navigator Tristan Gooley teaches us how clues and signs in nature can tell us about the land, water and animals around us.
Adam Shaw • 21 Apr 2023
-
Blog
How to increase biodiversity in your garden
Every garden has the potential to be a haven for wildlife. From planting for pollinators to embracing a little mess, here are some easy ways to increase biodiversity in your garden.
Charlotte Varela • 07 Apr 2023
-
Blog
How to tell male and female ospreys apart
How do you tell male and female ospreys apart? And how can you tell the difference between our resident Loch Arkaig pair, Louis and Dorcha, and other local birds?
George Anderson • 05 Apr 2023
-
Blog
Broadleaf spring issue: bring on the blossom
Our latest members' mag includes boosting productivity and tackling climate change with trees on farms, the pollinators' relationship with blossom, Alan Titchmarsh and much more.
Elisabeth Crump • 22 Mar 2023
-
Blog
10 ways to help wildlife in spring
We can all make a difference for wildlife this season, from a single simple action to an ongoing commitment, at home or further afield. Read our ten top tips.
Charlie Mellor • 01 Mar 2023
-
Blog
6 woods in the Domesday Book and other centuries-old UK woods
Ancient woods are centuries old, irreplaceable wildlife homes and carbon-crunchers, packed with fascinating history. Discover some of our amazing ancient woods in the UK, why they’re so special and how you can help protect them.
Charlie Mellor • 27 Feb 2023
-
Blog
7 half-term ideas for families
Enjoy wildlife spotting, tree ID and nature crafts on a half-term hike in the woods.
Danielle Wesley • 02 Feb 2023
-
Blog
Winter picnics: hot food ideas and recipes
Keep warm on a winter picnic with our recipes and food ideas, including mulled apple juice, hot dogs, chilli pitta pockets and jacket potatoes.
Danielle Wesley • 05 Jan 2023
-
Blog
Christmas nature quiz
Test your knowledge of the plants and animals connected with our festive traditions.
Charlie Mellor • 13 Dec 2022
-
Blog
Foraging for natural Christmas decorations
Transform your home into a woodland wonderland this Christmas with our easy ideas for festive, foraged home decor.
Helen Keating • 05 Dec 2022
-
Blog
Where do bees go in winter?
Ever wondered where bees go in winter? Find out where different species of bee go when the weather gets cold, and when to spot them emerging.
Charlotte Varela • 18 Nov 2022
-
Blog
10 eco-friendly gifts for under £10
On a budget this Christmas? We’ve handpicked 10 affordable eco-friendly gifts that show you care for your loved ones and the environment too.
Charlie Mellor • 11 Nov 2022
-
Blog
7 reasons to gift a tree for Christmas
Want to give something unique and meaningful to your loved ones while keeping costs low this Christmas? Trees are the perfect gift, whether you pick out a perfect sapling to plant, or dedicate a tree in a woodland close to their heart.
Becca Smith • 08 Nov 2022
-
Blog
10 ways to use fallen autumn leaves
Fallen leaves can be put to great use in the garden, or turned into beautiful decorations as autumnal craft projects. Here are our top 10 things to do with autumn leaves.
Charlie Mellor • 03 Nov 2022
-
Blog
10 ways to help wildlife in autumn
We can all take small actions to help wildlife this autumn. From your balcony or workplace to the local woods and beyond, here are our ten top tips.
Charlie Mellor • 19 Oct 2022
-
Blog
What does fox poo look like? And other animal poo identification tips
It may be messy and a little bit smelly, but animal poo can tell us a lot about the wildlife in our woods and gardens.
Charlotte Varela • 20 Sep 2022
-
Blog
Summer holidays: outdoor activities for kids
Discover fun things to do at home and on days out with our outdoor activity guide for the summer holidays. Spot wildlife, try yoga, compete in the forest Olympics and much more.
Danielle Wesley • 21 Jul 2022
-
Blog
7 amazing woodland wildlife walks in Scotland
From otters and ospreys to fascinating fungi and flowers, Scotland's wildlife and scenery are spectacular. Check out 7 of our favourite woods for wildlife walks.
Charlie Mellor • 15 Jul 2022
-
Blog
6 rare moths that depend on UK trees
The UK is home to a number of moths that depend on trees. Explore moth species that you'd be lucky to encounter on a woodland walk.
Julia Lock • 12 Jul 2022
-
Blog
Giant hogweed: the facts
How common is giant hogweed in the UK and is it really that dangerous? We've distilled the facts to give you the low-down on giant hogweed.
Helen Keating • 29 Jun 2022
-
Blog
Foraging at Easter: make a wreath and other home decorations
Brighten up your home and bring spring indoors with these easy ideas for Easter decorations using wild foraged plants.
Helen Keating • 07 Apr 2022
-
Blog
9 outdoor Easter activities for families
Get outdoors in the Easter holidays and enjoy our fun nature activities for kids - try nest building, go on a scavenger hunt and nibble on an Easter-themed picnic!
Danielle Wesley • 04 Apr 2022
-
Blog
8 steps to achieving long-term mindfulness with woods and trees
Explore some woodland activities that you can take part in to gain positive health benefits.
Julia Lock • 22 Mar 2022
-
Blog
7 blossom crafts and activities for kids
Discover fun blossom crafts and activities to enjoy with your children this spring.
Danielle Wesley • 11 Mar 2022
-
Blog
When to cut grass after winter
Are you unsure when to start cutting your lawn again after winter? Learn which factors affect your lawn, when to cut it and how this varies across the UK.
Lorienne Whittle • 01 Feb 2022
-
Blog
Animal tracks: snow print identification
A fresh coat of snow reveals the footprints of the secretive animals that call our woodland home. Learn how to identify some of the tracks you're likely to see in your local wood.
Charlie Mellor • 17 Jan 2022
-
Blog
Where and when to see snowdrops
Snowdrops are a symbol of hope and a sure sign that warmer weather is on the way. Find out when to see them and the best places to look for them.
Judith Garforth • 04 Jan 2022
-
Blog
10 eco-friendly New Year's resolutions
Whether you’re making a small commitment or a big change, here are 10 ways to do your bit for nature in 2022 with an eco-friendly New Year's resolution.
Charlie Mellor • 23 Dec 2021
-
Blog
Winter wildlife watching: what, where and when to spot
The winter weather might be frightful, but nature is always delightful. Here are our top tips on what wildlife to look out for, where and when on your winter walks.
Sally Bavin • 16 Dec 2021
-
Blog
Outdoor Christmas activities for families
Get out into nature this Christmas and enjoy some festive activities with your family on a woodland walk.
Danielle Wesley • 13 Dec 2021
-
Blog
7 signs of winter in nature
Winter is a magical time, with crisp mornings and chilly starlit evenings. Discover when winter really starts and some of the best signs to look and listen out for.
Charlie Mellor • 26 Nov 2021
-
Blog
Top 10 woods to enjoy autumn colour
Take a look at our top 10 woods to visit for autumn colour, with sites in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.
Hannah Vickers • 10 Nov 2021
-
Blog
Best woods near 10 UK cities
Here's our pick of great woods in and around the UK's busiest cities for sanctuary seekers, wildlife watchers, fitness fans and history hounds alike.
Charlie Mellor • 04 Nov 2021
-
Blog
When are conkers ready? Plus, tips for how to play
Discover the best time to collect conkers and how to prepare them for a conker fight.
Danielle Wesley • 27 Sep 2021
-
Blog
Is ivy poisonous?
Discover whether ivy is poisonous and learn more about where it grows, how to take care of it in your garden and why it’s a great plant for wildlife.
Kate Lewthwaite • 17 Aug 2021
-
Blog
Foraging in July: nature's best summer food for foraging
Here are our top six edible wild plants to look out for in July, with tips on what to look for and how to harvest, cook and eat them.
Helen Keating • 08 Jul 2021
-
Blog
Foraging in June: edible flowers, plants and herbs
From fresh flowers to tender leaves, here are some edible plants to forage in June. These are my top tips on where to find them, and how to turn them into something tasty.
Helen Keating • 24 Jun 2021
-
Blog
How to make an easy elderflower cordial without citric acid
This elderflower cordial recipe is very easy to make. It's the perfect way to capture the sweet, summery scent of the familiar hedgerow tree that is in full bloom now.
Helen Keating • 07 Jun 2021
-
Blog
How to identify elderflower and what to do with it
Elderflowers are an all-time favourite forager's treat. Get our top identification tips, along with ideas and recipes on how to use the fragrant flowers.
Helen Keating • 03 Jun 2021
-
Blog
Common tree identification: top 10 beginner's trees
Our top ten trees to give you a crash course in common tree identification.
Helen Keating • 26 May 2021
-
Blog
5 spring flower crafts for kids
Take a look at 5 fantastic spring flower crafts that kids will love, including tissue paper bluebells and finger-painted blossom.
Hannah Vickers • 19 May 2021
-
Blog
British trees: folklore and mythology
Trees are deeply embedded in our history and folklore. Explore nine British trees with their own magical associations and stories.
Helen Keating • 29 Apr 2021
-
Blog
5 fun Easter crafts for kids
Take a look at five fun Easter crafts for kids to do over the Easter break, from chocolate nests to egg carton flower wreaths.
Hannah Vickers • 30 Mar 2021
-
Blog
How to build a nest box for birds
Find out how to make your very own DIY nest box for your garden, to give birds a safe place to nest over the coming months.
Hannah Vickers • 25 Feb 2021
-
Blog
First signs of spring in nature
Spring is a glorious time in nature with new leaves, bright blooms and thriving wildlife. But when does spring really start and what are the key signs to look for?
Charlie Mellor • 19 Feb 2021
-
Blog
Early spring flowers quiz: 12 flowering plants and shrubs
Want to identify blooms spotted on a refreshing woodland walk or bring some early colour to your garden? Take our quiz to discover some of the most common early flowerers.
Charlie Mellor • 11 Feb 2021
-
Blog
Otters in our woods - where to find them
Did you know the clean rivers and shrubby banks of some of our woods are ideal habitat for otters? Follow our top tips for otter-spotting and find a waterside woodland near you.
Charlie Mellor • 02 Feb 2021
-
Blog
11 waterfall walks to visit in our woods
From gently tumbling streams to powerful cascades, waterfalls are mesmerising. Check out the best waterfall walks in and around our woods across the UK.
Charlie Mellor • 15 Jan 2021
-
Blog
Eco-friendly ways to recycle Christmas waste
Enjoy the festivities while limiting your environmental impact with our tips on how to responsibly dispose of Christmas cards, trees, wrapping and food.
Charlie Mellor • 24 Dec 2020