Skip to main content
Woodland Trust
  • Shop
  • Blog
Woodland Trust home page Become a member
Woodland Trust
  • Trees, woods and wildlife
    • A-Z tree guide
    • British trees
    • Tree pests and diseases
    • Trees and climate change
    • Benefits of trees
    • Woodland animals
    • Woodland plants
    • Fungi and lichens
    • Habitats
    • Species identification guides
    • Nature's Calendar
    • Ancient Tree Inventory
    • State of UK Woods and Trees 2025
    • Trees and woods: at the heart of nature recovery
    • Loch Arkaig osprey cam

      Follow the story of our Loch Arkaig ospreys, live from the heart of an ancient Caledonian pine forest. 

      Watch our nest cam
  • Protecting trees and woods
    • Threats to woods and trees
    • Campaign with us
    • Take action in your community
    • Tell us about a threat
    • Urban trees
    • Influencing government and policymakers
    • Ancient woodland restoration
    • State of UK Woods and Trees 2025
    • Landscape-scale conservation
    • Catch up on our campaigns

      Discover our recent challenges and successes and how you can help.

      Get the latest news
  • Visiting woods
    • Find a wood
    • Things to do
    • Foraging
    • Nature's Calendar
    • Ancient Tree Inventory
    • Events
    • Walking
    • Children and families
    • Woods through the seasons
    • Virtual tours
    • Podcasts
      Discover more in the woods
    • Things to do in the woods
    • Foraging: what to look out for each month
    • Nature's Calendar
    • Find a wood near you

      We've got thousands of woods, free for you to visit, across the UK.

      Plan your journey
  • Plant trees
    • Free trees for schools and communities
    • Tree planting advice
    • How to choose a tree
    • Where to plant
    • How to plant a tree
    • How to care for your trees
    • Buy trees from our shop
    • Trees for landowners and farmers
    • Plant trees on your land with MOREwoods
    • Benefits of agroforestry
    • Managing trees and woods
    • Woodland creation guide
    • Woodland Carbon
    • Why plant trees?
    • Natural regeneration
    • UK sourced and grown trees: why buy?
    • Agroforestry Show 2025

      Join us on 10-11 September for two days of inspirational workshops, talks, field walks and demonstrations.

      Learn more and book
  • About us
    • What we do
    • Our strategy
    • Where we work
    • How we are run
    • Our history
    • Careers with us
    • Volunteering
    • Our partners
    • Our publications
      Latest blogs
    • Broadleaf summer issue: here comes the sun

      Elisabeth Crump  •  10 Jun 2025

    • 12 rare wild flowers in the UK's woods

      Charlotte Varela  •  13 May 2025

    • Rare UK animals quiz: how well do you know our endangered wildlife?

      Charlie Mellor  •  07 May 2025

  • Support us
    • Join
    • Become a member
    • Collect Nectar points with Woodland Trust membership
    • Act
    • Campaign with us
    • Volunteer with us
    • Your community
    • Your school
    • Tree Charter
    • Events
    • Partner with us
    • Give
    • Make a donation
    • Support an appeal
    • Leave a gift in your will
    • Dedicate trees or woodland
    • Give in memory
    • Play our raffle
    • Carbon donations
    • Philanthropy and major gifts
    • Donate your Nectar points
    • How we spend your money
    • Fundraise
    • As an individual
    • As a group
    • At work
    • A-Z tree guide
    • British trees
    • Tree pests and diseases
    • Trees and climate change
    • Benefits of trees
    • Woodland animals
    • Woodland plants
    • Fungi and lichens
    • Habitats
    • Species identification guides
    • Nature's Calendar
    • Ancient Tree Inventory
    • State of UK Woods and Trees 2025
    • Trees and woods: at the heart of nature recovery
    • Shop
    • Blog
    • Threats to woods and trees
    • Campaign with us
    • Take action in your community
    • Tell us about a threat
    • Urban trees
    • Influencing government and policymakers
    • Ancient woodland restoration
    • State of UK Woods and Trees 2025
    • Landscape-scale conservation
    • Shop
    • Blog
    • Find a wood
      • Things to do
      • Foraging
      • Nature's Calendar
      • Ancient Tree Inventory
      • Events
      • Walking
      • Children and families
      • Woods through the seasons
      • Virtual tours
      • Podcasts
      • Shop
      • Blog
    • Shop
    • Blog
    • Free trees for schools and communities
      • Tree planting advice
      • How to choose a tree
      • Where to plant
      • How to plant a tree
      • How to care for your trees
      • Shop
      • Blog
    • Buy trees from our shop
    • Trees for landowners and farmers
    • Plant trees on your land with MOREwoods
    • Benefits of agroforestry
    • Managing trees and woods
    • Woodland creation guide
    • Woodland Carbon
    • Why plant trees?
    • Natural regeneration
    • UK sourced and grown trees: why buy?
    • Shop
    • Blog
    • What we do
    • Our strategy
    • Where we work
    • How we are run
    • Our history
    • Careers with us
    • Volunteering
    • Our partners
    • Our publications
    • Shop
    • Blog
      • Join
      • Become a member
      • Collect Nectar points with Woodland Trust membership
      • Shop
      • Blog
      • Act
      • Campaign with us
      • Volunteer with us
      • Your community
      • Your school
      • Tree Charter
      • Events
      • Partner with us
      • Shop
      • Blog
      • Give
      • Make a donation
      • Support an appeal
      • Leave a gift in your will
      • Dedicate trees or woodland
      • Give in memory
      • Play our raffle
      • Carbon donations
      • Philanthropy and major gifts
      • Donate your Nectar points
      • How we spend your money
      • Shop
      • Blog
      • Fundraise
      • As an individual
      • As a group
      • At work
      • Shop
      • Blog
    • Shop
    • Blog
Become a member
  • Shop
  • Blog

Things to do

Choose a category

  • Blog

    11 animals that live in the UK's rainforest 

    Discover the weird and wonderful animals living in our very own rainforests.

    Annabel Kemp  •  19 Jun 2025

  • Blog

    8 enchanting rainforests to explore in the UK

    UK rainforests are even rarer than their tropical counterparts, and just as beautiful. Brimming with wildlife, entwined with local history and overflowing with magic, here are eight of the best to explore.

    Charlotte Varela  •  12 Mar 2025

  • Blog

    Chiffchaff or willow warbler? How to tell the difference

    Chiffchaffs and willow warblers migrate to our shores every spring. Can you tell them apart? Discover the differences in appearance, call and habitat.

    Alex Marshall  •  03 Feb 2025

  • 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.

    Rory Morrow  •  13 Jan 2025

  • Blog

    Which trees have catkins? And how to tell them apart

    Find out what catkins look like, which trees have them, why they grow, and where and when to spot them.

    Alex Marshall  •  07 Jan 2025

  • Blog

    Starling murmurations: what they are and where to see

    They're one of the wonders of the natural world, and they're often right on our doorstep. Find a flock of sky-dancing starlings to watch for yourself this autumn.

    Kayleigh Jacobs-Rutter  •  16 Dec 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  •  13 Dec 2024

  • Blog

    Christmas nature quiz

    Test your knowledge of the plants and animals connected with our festive traditions.

    Charlie Mellor  •  11 Dec 2024

  • 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  •  02 Dec 2024

  • Blog

    Foraging in November and December: edible wild plants

    Don't be put off by short days and cold, damp weather as winter arrives. There are still wild foraging treats to brighten your days. Here are some favourites.

    Rory Morrow  •  26 Nov 2024

  • Blog

    5 homemade advent calendars: how to make DIY advent calendars

    With a range of shapes and sizes to choose from, these homemade advent calendars are the perfect way to get into the festive spirit.  

    Annabel Kemp  •  07 Nov 2024

  • 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  •  23 Oct 2024

  • 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  •  11 Oct 2024

  • Blog

    7 reasons to gift a tree

    Want to give something unique and meaningful to your loved ones while keeping costs low? 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. 

    Annabel Kemp  •  01 Oct 2024

  • Blog

    Foraging in September: edible wild plants and berries to look out for

    Ten edible wild plants and mushrooms to forage for in September, with tips on what to look for and how to gather and eat them.

    Rory Morrow  •  25 Sep 2024

  • Blog

    6 fast growing trees for your garden

    Looking for screening, privacy or just want to green up your garden quickly? Check out our recommendations for a fast growing native tree to suit your space.

    Charlie Mellor  •  20 Sep 2024

  • Blog

    Woodland wildlife Olympics quiz

    Test your nature knowledge as we pit fur against feather in an imaginary woodland Olympics. Some of the results might surprise you!

    Charlie Mellor  •  10 Jul 2024

  • 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

    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

    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

    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

    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

    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

    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

    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

    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 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 with an eco-friendly New Year's resolution.

    Charlie Mellor  •  23 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

  • Blog

    How to identify winter trees quiz - twigs, buds and silhouettes

    When deciduous trees shed their leaves in winter, identification can be tricky. But even on bare trees there are clues to look out for. Take this quiz and test your winter tree ID knowledge.

    Helen Keating  •  17 Dec 2020

  • Blog

    9 fun ideas for family winter walks

    Head out into the fresh air and get inspired with our ideas for winter woodland walks - enjoy spotting wildlife, scavenger hunts, winter picnics and more.

    Danielle Wesley  •  14 Dec 2020

  • Blog

    How to make a holly wreath

    Read our tips and step by step guide for how to make your own festive wreath from holly and other natural foraged materials.

    Kate Lewthwaite  •  24 Nov 2020

  • Blog

    Top tips for an eco-friendly and sustainable Christmas

    Sustainable choices at Christmas could help the planet, save you money and make the holiday season more memorable too! Check out our top tips.

    Charlie Mellor  •  20 Nov 2020

  • Blog

    How and when to plant fruit trees

    Find out how to choose the best fruit tree for you and your garden, when and where to plant them and the benefits they bring for wildlife.

    Helen Keating  •  05 Nov 2020

  • Blog

    How to protect your plants in winter

    Top tips on how to protect your garden plants from wind, rain, frost and snow, plus other garden jobs for winter: planning, planting and helping wildlife.

    Kate Lewthwaite  •  04 Nov 2020

  • Blog

    What is a mast year? How and why it happens

    Discover what a mast year is, what it means for trees and wildlife and what the data tells us about autumn 2020.

    Lorienne Whittle  •  27 Oct 2020

  • Blog

    Autumn trees for your garden: best native trees for seasonal colour

    Our guide to the best UK native trees to plant in your garden for a splash of seasonal colour, from fiery foliage to bright, bold berries.

    Helen Keating  •  19 Oct 2020

  • Blog

    11 autumn leaf crafts - simple ideas and activities for kids

    Get creative with the kids this autumn. Make your own leaf animal pictures, leaf rubbings, leaf prints and superhero leaf masks.

    Danielle Wesley  •  09 Oct 2020

  • Blog

    When do pine cones fall? And what to do with them

    Hunting for pine cones can be a great activity for adults and children alike. Read our tips on when and where to find pine cones and fun ways to use them.

    Charlie Mellor  •  06 Oct 2020

  • Blog

    Why do leaves change colour and fall off in autumn?

    Autumn is the most spectacular season thanks to our deciduous trees. But why is autumn colour better some years than others? Find out why.

    Helen Keating  •  02 Oct 2020

  • Blog

    Autumn leaf ID quiz: can you identify 10 trees?

    Test your tree knowledge. As autumn sets in, many of the trees around us change colour, but do you know what they are?

    Helen Keating  •  21 Sep 2020

  • Blog

    When to pick sloes and how to make sloe gin

    It's traditional to make sloe gin in autumn, ready for the coming winter. Here's an easy and delicious recipe for you to try, with our top sloe picking tips. It takes a couple of months to mature, so if you make it soon it'll be ready by Christmas.

    Helen Keating  •  15 Sep 2020

  • Blog

    Why walking in woods is good for you

    It’s time to swap the gym – or sofa – for woodland walks. Here are five benefits for your health and wellbeing, plus tips on what to wear and things to do.

    Charlie Mellor  •  05 Aug 2020

  • Blog

    Protected trees: how to know which trees are protected

    Our guide explains the different methods of protection, how to check what’s already in place and what you can do to protect trees that are important to you.

    Nicole Hillier  •  17 Jul 2020

  • Blog

    Summer tree identification: can you name these nine trees?

    Which trees do you recognise? Test your knowledge and see if you can get top marks!

    Helen Keating  •  13 Jul 2020

  • Blog

    How to attract wildlife to your garden: 5 top tips

    Make your garden a haven for wildlife and you can enjoy the sights and sounds of nature knowing that you’re making a difference.

    Charlie Mellor  •  26 Jun 2020

  • Blog

    UK bats: a guide to bats in your garden

    Explore the most likely bats you'll spot from your garden and how to help them out with our biodiversity-boosting gardening tips.

    Helen Keating  •  22 May 2020

  • Blog

    How to make a wormery

    Discover how to make a wormery and uncover all about the wonders of earthworms.

    Hannah Vickers  •  08 May 2020

  • Blog

    What hatched here? How to identify bird egg shells

    Found a fragment of egg in the garden, woods or park? Here's a quick guide to the most common UK bird eggs too help you find out which species it came from.

    Helen Keating  •  05 May 2020

  • Blog

    Seven edible weeds: foraging in your garden

    If you're a fan of foraging but missing roaming the woods and hedgerows right now, go in search of some edible plants that are closer to home. Here are seven edible garden weeds to look out for.

    Helen Keating  •  23 Apr 2020

  • Blog

    How to build a bee hotel

    Help bees by building them a bee hotel to lay their eggs. Read our step-by-step guide.

    Hannah Vickers  •  17 Apr 2020

  • Blog

    UK blossom quiz: how well do you know tree flowers? 

    Test your blossom knowledge with our springtime quiz.

    Rachel Hoskins  •  14 Mar 2020

  • Blog

    Rook, crow or raven? How to tell the difference

    Crows, rooks and ravens are all part of the crow family and can be tricky to identify. Here are our tips on how to tell them apart.

    Sally Bavin  •  14 Jan 2020

  • Blog

    Are acorns edible? And other acorn facts

    Acorns are a favourite dish of many woodland creatures, but did you know humans can eat them too? Here are some great recipes and more fascinating acorn facts.

    Emilie Bonnevay  •  03 Sep 2019

  • Blog

    First signs of autumn

    Discover when autumn starts and the signs of the season – look for leaves changing colour, autumn fruits and seeds, migrating birds, ivy flowering and incredible fungi.

    Danielle Wesley  •  31 Aug 2019

  • Blog

    Easy blackberry recipes

    Forage for blackberries to make blackberry crumble, bramble flapjack, summer fruits pudding, and a sweet blackberry sauce.

    Danielle Wesley  •  27 Aug 2019

  • Blog

    How to make a hedgehog house

    Give a hog a home by following our step-by-step guide.

    Charlotte Varela  •  19 Aug 2019

  • Blog

    What do foxes eat? And more facts about foxes

    Whether we live in the countryside or a bustling city, most of us have seen a fox. But how much do you know about one of our most iconic animals?

    Charlotte Varela  •  16 Aug 2019

  • Blog

    How to make bramble whisky: recipe for blackberry liqueur

    Read our simple and easy recipe for this delicious foraged blackberry liqueur, or bramble whisky. You'll love this homemade tipple, it's sure to impress!

    George Anderson  •  12 Aug 2019

  • Blog

    Hazelnuts: where and when to forage

    Our tips on where and when to find hazelnuts in the wild, how to prepare these tasty treats, and the woodland animals that love eating them too.

    Laura Cottam  •  05 Aug 2019

  • Blog

    Raw rosehip syrup: how to make and use

    Rosehips really became popular during World War II when fresh produce was scarce. Here are our tips for finding and cooking up these surprisingly tasty fruits.

    George Anderson  •  31 Jul 2019

  • Blog

    Woodland Walks podcast with Adam Shaw - Loch Arkaig

    The latest Woodland Walks podcast explores the wilderness of Loch Arkaig Pine Forest, set among lochs and mountains and full of rare wildlife and flora.

    Adam Shaw  •  22 Jul 2019

  • Blog

    Beech tree facts: purple leaves, rippled bark and more

    Beech is one of our most popular trees. Here are our tips on how to identify them, why some may look a little different and other interesting facts.

    Emilie Bonnevay  •  15 Jul 2019

  • Blog

    How to make a butterfly house: a step by step guide

    Follow our easy guide to make your own butterfly house! It doesn't take long and supports your local pollinators.

    Rachel Hoskins  •  12 Jul 2019

  • Blog

    What is growing on my tree? Black spots, galls, mildew and algae

    Trees can host a range of spots, patches, powders, lumps and bumps! Here’s our quick guide to some of the more common funguses, growths and colour changes.

    Emilie Bonnevay  •  27 Jun 2019

  • Previous
  • 7
  • 8
  • 9
  • 10
  • 11
  • 12
  • 13
  • 14
  • 15
  • 16
  • Next
Load more
Woodland Trust home page

Keep in touch with the nature you love

Sign up to stay connected
  • facebook
  • instagram
  • youtube
  • tiktok
  • Contact us
  • Jobs
  • Press and media
  • Newsletter
  • Publications
  • Accessibility
  • Cookie policy
  • Privacy policy
  • Terms and conditions
Forest Stewardship Council
Fundraising Regulator Logo

The Woodland Trust is a charity registered in England and Wales (No. 294344) and in Scotland (No. SC038885).  A non-profit-making company limited by guarantee. Registered in England No. 1982873.

Woodland Trust (Enterprises) Limited, registered in England (No. 2296645), is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Woodland Trust. Registered office: Kempton Way, Grantham, Lincolnshire, NG31 6LL.

The Woodland Trust and Woodland Trust Nature Detectives logos are registered trademarks. Images © protected Woodland Trust. VAT No. GB520 6111 04.

Most Woodland Trust woods are certified to FSC® standards by the Soil Association. Certificate number SA-FM/COC-001270, Licence code FSC-C009406.