Nature & wildlife

From ancient trees to bees and butterflies, our places are full of life. We're working hard to safeguard nature for years to come

A bee on lavender, Avebury, Wiltshire

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The importance of bees
Bees on the entrance to their hive

BBC Radio 2's Big Bee Challenge  

Bees are a vital part of our ecosystem, which is why we're supporting BBC Radio 2's Big Bee Challenge this summer. Whilst the Big Bee Challenge competition has now closed, you can still get involved by taking part in bee-friendly activities, finding out which bees you can spot this summer and more.

Get buzz-y
A close up shot of a worker bee with two orange pollen sacs on either back leg. Play Video
Video

A bee's life

Spotting bees buzzing around flowers is one of the most enjoyable sights of summer. Have you ever wanted a bees-eye view of the world? In this video discover how bees see the world through a day in the life of a bee.

Find out how we're protecting honey bees
Honey bee feeding on a dahlia flower

Help protect pollinators 

Bees play a vital role in the natural world around us but they're under threat. By donating to support nature and wildlife at the places in our care, you'll be helping to protect these pollinators and the green spaces they call home. Now more than ever, we need your help to look after the nature and wildlife we all find comfort in.

Donate now
Honey bee feeding on nectar rich plant

Our most bee-friendly gardens 

The variety of flowers on offer in summer is irresistible for bees, and they rely heavily on flower nectar in the early part of the season. Several of our places keep bees as they play a vital role in pollinating our beautiful garden flowers, fruit and vegetables. Read our list to find out where to see them.

More about our work
The high beech canopy in summer

Our tree planting ambition 

Trees are the best natural armour we have against the climate crisis, so we're working hard to plant and establish 20 million of them by 2030. Discover how your support and working with partners is making all of this possible.

Why we're caring for trees
Large blue butterflies on Rodborough Common

2020 weather and wildlife review  

It's been a year of mixed fortunes for the UK's wildlife. While extreme weather and warm temperatures have had a huge impact on wildlife this year, many species thrived in the peace and quiet of lockdown. Discover how birds, animals and insects fared during the last 12 months and learn more about our work to protect the natural world.

Dallowgill is the source of the Skell

Reviving historic river valley amid threat of climate change  

We’re beginning a project to protect North Yorkshire's Skell Valley, including the globally important Fountains Abbey, from flooding thanks to a £1.4m grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund. Find out how we're working with Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and other partners to restore 12 miles of the River Skell, tackle the effects of climate change and create places for wildlife.

The majestic giant beech tree on the Plas Newydd estate, Wales

Tree of the month 

The Giant Beech Tree (Fagus sylvatica) at Plas Newydd House and Garden in Wales has the largest trunk of any beech tree in Britain, and is our tree of the month for July. Find out more about this precious tree and the landscape that surrounds it.

About the Giant Beech Tree
Walking along the family trail at Longshaw, Burbage and the Eastern Moors, Derbyshire

Everyone needs nature 

More than ever, nature has been our source of comfort. Trees towering above us, serene coastal paths, the simplicity of a rushing stream and panoramic drama in the skies – these can answer our need for quiet and inspiration.

Meet the rangers safeguarding nature

A ranger cutting up a tree

The world of a ranger 

The world of a ranger is a very varied one and we couldn't do without them

Liam, Woodland Ranger, at Skeghyll Woods in Ambleside

Liam Plummer - Woodland Ranger Profile 

Meet Liam, one of our Woodland Rangers tasked with nurturing the Lake District's next generation of veteran trees.

Find nature on your doorstep

Experience nature through the seasons and spot the UK's native species in their natural habitat

Find outdoor places near you