Children & nature

We're on a mission to reconnect a generation of children with nature

Child taking a photograph in the garden at Belton House, Lincolnshire.
A boy with a fishing net among the rockpools at Birling Gap, East Sussex

Rockpooling guide for families 

Rockpooling is a great family activity best enjoyed from late spring until early autumn. Our ranger and rockpooling fan Kate Martin shares her top tips for a day out discovering the fascinating creatures found on our shores.

Rockpooling guide for families
Kayaking in the sea off Middle Beach, Studland, Dorset

50 things summertime challenges 

Rivers are waiting to be explored, trees long to be climbed and shooting stars sparkle just out of sight. Why not head out on an adventure and see which of your favourite 50 things challenges you can complete this summer?

Adventure is waiting

Go wild in the woods

Girls holding a map and compass atop a hill

How to read a compass 

Finding your way with a map and compass may seem tricky at first, but with this quick and easy guide, you'll be on the right track in no time at all.

Learn how to cook bread on a stick

How to bake campfire bread 

Rustling up a quick snack for hungry explorers has never been simpler. Try your hand at campfire bread this summer.

A girl climbing a tree

How to climb trees 

Climbing trees is easy, all you need is your courage, good grip and a sense of adventure. Follow these top tips and tricks to help you to conquer tree-climbing safely and soon you'll be on top of the world.

Conquer the giants
Lucy laughs with her friends at Morden Hall Park Play Video
Video

Lucy's story

Aged 13, Lucy is on a mission to protect her local wildlife. She lives in a block of flats in London, but spends her time designing wildflower meadows and creating habitats at nearby Morden Hall Park, with a group of like-minded young people who are determined to make a difference.

‘I’ve always loved the environment but I’ve never really known how to help it,’ says Lucy, as she and the Urban Rangers set about transforming their favourite green space.

Girl with magnifying glass looking for wildlife

Top tips for nature spotting in the North 

Whether you love the feeling of mud squelching between your toes as you're pond-dipping or prefer sitting in the sunshine watching for butterflies, there's an adventure waiting for everyone. Become an expert with our handy guide to wildlife spotting this summer.

Ranger Gwen at work

Meet the ranger on puffin patrol 

As the puffins arrive back in the Farne Islands after a long winter at sea, we met up with ranger, Gwen Potter, to find out a bit more about them.

Meet Gwen
Bodyboarding at Portstewart Strand, County Londonderry, Northern Ireland

Junior membership 

We've introduced a new junior membership for children and teenagers. Discover the benefits and get answers to any questions you may have.

Things to do

Find out what events and activities are on at our places near you

Discover what's on