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Ashness wood in the summer with lush moss covering boulders on the ground and sun rays piercing through the trees
A thick carpet of moss covers the ground at Ashness wood in Borrowdale | © Melinda Gilhen-Baker

Countryside and woodland

Revitalise your senses and recharge your mind in the great outdoors by exploring the wonderful hills, valleys, woodlands and rivers in our care.

Things to do in the countryside

Where to go forest bathing 

Forest bathing's a mindfulness practice, developed in Japan, that's gained popularity in the UK. Find places to go forest bathing near you and immerse yourself in nature, using your senses to slow down the mind and relax.

Visitors lying and relaxing on specially made reclining frames, surrounded by woodland and bathed in spots of sunlight shining through the trees

Top waterfalls to visit 

Did you know that several of the places we look after in England, Northern Ireland and Wales have waterfalls? Find the best ones to visit and experience the invigorating power of nature.

A long-exposure photograph of a cascading waterfall backed by lush green trees at Aberdulais Tin Works and Waterfall, Wales.

Places to see butterflies 

While many of us are spending more time in our growing towns and cities, there are still wild places to escape to.

Red admiral butterfly at Quarry Bank Mill, Cheshire

Nature reserves 

We look after some of the UK's most important nature reserves. Visit a nature reserve near you and discover a wide range of wildlife and plantlife.

Seal lying on a shingle beach with head turned to one side, with sea in background

Countryside and woodland near you

    Visitor garden Erddig Wrexham Wales

    Where will you visit next?

    Discover lots of gardens, historic houses, days out at the coast and more.

    Plan a visit

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