Countryside

Revitalise your senses and explore hills, valleys, woodlands and rivers

The sweeping landscape of Edale where adventure awaits
Summer meadow flowers with a bright blue sky

Eight things to spot in a summer meadow 

Find out what you could discover in our meadows this summer, from courting insects to orchids.

Coastal heathland in Dunwich

Wild places to get away from it all 

There are still areas of wilderness where you can really get away from it all. Here are some of our favourite wild places to get out and enjoy.

Horses on the North Devon coast at sunset

The joys of an evening stroll 

An evening amble can do wonders for your mood. Why not try exploring your favourite countryside or coastal spot in a whole new, dusky, light?

Walker enjoys the view at Brecon Beacons National Park

Walks for challenge seekers 

Push yourself further on one of our favourite challenging walking routes; from mountain hikes and lengthy trails to upland walks and difficult terrain.

Countryside we recommend
Summer wildflower meadows are speckled with colour

Bath Skyline 

South East of the city of Bath, Bath and NE Somerset

Wide open space overlooking the World Heritage City of Bath

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Boer War Monument at Coombe Hill

Chilterns Countryside 

Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire

Rolling hills, distant views, chalk grassland, and acres of woodland to explore

River Wey near Newark road bridge

River Wey and Godalming Navigations and Dapdune Wharf 

Guildford, Surrey

Tranquil waterway running for nearly 20 miles through the heart of Surrey

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An archive image of the people marching in the 1932 Kinder Scout trespass overlaid onto a modern day image of the landscape

People’s Landscapes: Explore the places that have shaped the nation 

In 2019 we’re marking the 200th anniversary of the Peterloo Massacre, a turning point in our democracy, with a year-long programme that explores the role our places have played in social change. Through events, exhibitions and podcasts, you’ll be able to explore the untold histories that hide behind our landscapes.

Places that shaped the nation
Visitors and dogs at the Whitelady Waterfall at Lydford Gorge

Places to see waterfalls 

From the Brecon Beacons to the Lake District, we care for places with some breathtaking waterfalls. Venture out to one of our favourite waterfalls and experience the power and beauty of nature.

Discover waterfalls at our places
Visit Springhill to explore the gardens and wider estate

Butterfly walks 

Our top butterfly walks, chosen by our specialist butterfly volunteer Matthew Oates, will help you enjoy the best of the British summer.

Fingle Bridge in May

A beginner's guide to forest bathing 

Forest bathing is the practice of spending time among trees, which has been recognised for its benefits to the mind and body. If you've never tried it before, this handy guide will give you some top tips and places to go, so you can return to your roots.

Refresh yourself with a spot of forest bathing
Rangers surveying meadows in Langdale

Save the nation’s meadows 

Sadly, 97 per cent of our meadows have disappeared since the 1930s. Help us restore 1,000 hectares of wildflower meadows and protect species like the large blue butterfly, the turtledove and the great yellow bumblebee before it's too late.

Donate to the Making Meadows appeal

Join

Enjoy free access to more than 500 places with National Trust membership

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Activities in your area

Find your favourite activity or sport to enjoy in the great outdoors

Get active

Discover

See how the number of places we protect has grown and learn more about the special places we care for.

Use our Land Map