What is it?
A nature trail is a planned outdoor walking route, along which are posts marking varying points of interest for people to stop and observe. They can include things such as nature, environmental features and objects of technological and cultural importance, and generally the marker posts have some information displayed for the walkers’ perusal.
What does it involve?
These sorts of trails can involve many different things, but they are all generally based around walking on a circuitous route or from point A to B. The lengths of the trails can vary from reasonably short 30 minute walks to taking many hours to complete – there are different types to include all sorts of different features.
Why do it and what are the benefits?
A nature trail is a great and easy way to get interested in the surrounding environment! The presented information means it requires no research on the things around you, so it’s hassle free and a alternative way of learning.
What equipment do we need?
You shouldn’t need any equipment other than appropriate outdoor clothing and footwear!
Who is it suitable for?
As long as you make sure the length and intensity of the nature trail is suitable for the ages of the students, it should be suitable for pretty much anyone!
Costs?
Most nature trails are generally free to access, but more specialist walks may have a guide available, which would have some costs! Make sure to check ahead of time.
Issues/Things to think about? (unsuitable for age groups, medical conditions etc)
Nature trails can take you a reasonable distance away from any towns, so if you have students with unpredictable medical conditions you must ensure you can call for medical help and that assistance can access your location easily! Also, young children should always be supervised carefully when in an unsecured outdoor location!
How do we include?
The nature of the outdoors means that the terrain can be rough or unpredictable, so those with physical disabilities may have issues navigating the route. Check with the trail’s organisers to find out the specific details.
Doing it abroad?
Foreign nature trails will be fascinating! They can give you a chance to see and learn about some of the features of different countries while seeing them in real life as opposed to pictures in books. Do some research beforehand to see what is going to be available in the area!
Main website:
See specific venue websites for information about their nature trails.
Avoncroft Museum is home to over 30 different buildings and structures which have been rescued and re-built in rural Worcestershire. The Museum is spread over 19 acres and includes a wildflower meadow, period gardens, a traditional cider and perry orchard as well as the collection of historic buildings.
The Museum holds other historic collections which include:
Explore the life of Beatrix Potter one of the most iconic and influential figures of the Lake District at the Armitt Museum.
Discover where the young William Shakespeare courted his future bride Anne Hathaway at her picturesque family home.
The Ventnor Downs rise steeply above the Victorian seaside town of Ventnor. With the sparkling sea below and the holm oak trees which have colonised the south facing chalk slopes there is almost a Mediterranean flavour to the landscape. On the top of the downs you find a complete change of landscape with large open areas of grass and heather.
We champion wildlife and green spaces across the whole area. With the help of our members, we are making a huge difference on the ground through our pioneering projects such as the Nature Improvement Area.
A steep-sided dry stream valley on the edge of the Marlborough Downs near Swindon. Valued as flower-rich unimproved chalk grassland and traditional hay meadow. On entering the site visitors will glimpse a small spring fed stream bordered by hedgerow and old willow pollards. The stream separates the main valley from a colourful hay meadow.
Charming and captivating. But look a little closer and you'll unearth the hidden heritage of the Clee Hills and the Corvedale. Coal mining on the Clee Hills started in medieval times while the Corvedale was alight with blast furnaces and iron foundries. Billowing black smoke would have filled the valley as chunks of the hills were carved out.
Designed by Scottish architect William Adam in 1732, Haddo House near Aberdeen is a magnificent example of an historic Scottish stately home.
School visits are available by prior arrangement and can be tailored to suit your requirements.
'Closer to the Edge' is an outdoor adventure park promoting active outdoor learning via High Ropes, Zip Wire, Woodland Camps, Survival and Bushcraft, Climbing and a whole lot more. Their highly qualified, committed and experienced team use an extensive military training, corporate and educational background to ensure that your experience is memorable.
Play this new twelve hole miniature course, set amongst the fantasy ruins of a picturesque roman farm villa.
Will you beat par for the course? Will you curse the gods at the Shrine of the Four Seasons, or work up a lather in the roman bath house?
Score cards, clubs and balls provided. Original design with excellent all weather artificial turf playing-surface.
WWT is a conservation charity that saves wetlands, which are essential for life itself. Wetlands are the primary source of drinking water for people and wildlife. They also connect us with nature, and with ourselves, through beautiful landscapes and inspiring encounters with wildlife.
Rainham Hall is a charming and remarkably fine example of a Queen Anne house, built in 1729 by an enterprising merchant and ship’s captain, John Harle.
Essex Wildlife Trust is the county’s leading conservation charity. It has more than 32,000 members, manages and protects over 7,250 acres of land on 87 nature reserves and 2 nature parks and runs 9 visitor centres. The aim of Essex Wildlife Trust is to Protect Wildlife for the Future.
Minnowburn is on the southern edge of Belfast, its meadows and woodlands rolling down to the Lagan river - perfect for a short stroll or the start of a longer walk.
Dander along the burn that gives the area its name, beeches towering above, past where generations of children fished for minnows.
These high chalk cliffs look out onto the English Channel, giving far-reaching views towards the French coast.
An indoor go karting centre with junior and adult karts rurally situated in the midlands. All racewear is provided. Lap times printed after each session. There is an indoor viewing area, party rooms, toilets, outdoor patio and a cafe serving hot and cold snacks.
Charnwood Museum features a wide range of exhibits reflecting the history, geology, archaeology and industries of Charnwood and the surrounding area. Permanent displays include ‘Coming to Charnwood’, ‘The Natural World of Charnwood’, ‘Living off the Land’ and ‘Earning a Living’.
There is a wide range of outdoor activities with Ace Adventure to suit any age or ability. We can cater from high adrenaline thrills to relaxed wilderness and wildlife experiences.
Tittesworth Water is situated near to Leek, on the edge of the spectacular Peak District National Park. Open all year round, we offer a broad range of activities for those who enjoy the outdoors.
Carlton Marshes is an internationally important broadland nature reserve in the Waveney valley. The dykes and pools are teeming with wildlife and there are reed beds, flower rich meadows, marsh and woodland to explore. The education centre boasts panoramic views over the marshes, two teaching rooms, toilets and a picnic area.
Topsham Museum is housed in one of a group of late 17th century buildings overlooking the Exe Estuary. Following completion of a stunning new River Gallery, the Museum was 'long-listed' for the Art Fund Prize in 2008.
Located within the Brecon Beacons National Park, Dolygaer Outdoor Education Centre offers a wide variety of interesting and exciting land and water based activities in a unique and picturesque location.
The Bushcraft Company offer residential school trips with a difference, taking students into the wild and giving them real back-to-nature experiences they will never forget.
A 15-year-old boy fell 60ft over the edge of a cliff whilst on a geography school trip, miraculously only suffering minor injuries.