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Nature Trail
Nature Trail
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.
Venues with this Activity
Distinctive and iconic landmark with fine views across North Yorkshire and Cleveland
At just 1,049 feet (320 m) high, Roseberry Topping may not be the biggest hill you'll ever see, but it will certainly be one of the most distinctive. Its shape, caused by the combination of a geological fault and a mining collapse in 1912 has made the hill the most beloved landmark in the Tees Valley area.
Grab your wellies, for an unforgettable learning experience outdoors designed to support your teaching and learning in school.
Slimbridge Wetland Centre is an unforgettable day out for groups – it’s the wetland that inspired Sir Peter Scott to found WWT in 1946. When your group visits, you will see why.
At the top of the park stand the imposing remains of Lowther Castle and its hidden Gardens.
Built by William the Conqueror, Rockingham was a royal fortress for 450 years. Home to the Saunders Watson family. Set in a panoramic location with views over five counties, the Castle has magnificently furnished rooms of several periods, and is surrounded by 18 acres of superbly contrasting gardens including a beautiful Room Garden created by Chelsea Gold Medal Winner Robert Myers.
Beautiful sandstone headland renowned for its eighth-century chapel and rock hewn graves; a wonderful urban green space
This sandstone headland, south of Morecambe and north of Heysham port, rises majestically above the sea. See the remains of St Patrick's Chapel, built in the early Medieval period and now a Scheduled Ancient Monument. The eight body-shaped, rock-cut graves here are believed to be unique.
Over 40 different activities from Tree Trekking to Tarzan swings.
Schools, Groups and Corporate Bookings
In the heart of Rob Hood country, take a walk to the mighty Major Oak, pick up a fun family nature trail, try the playground or just stand and admire the weird and wonderful shapes of the ancient oak trees, twisted by age and weathered into living sculptures.
Highlights include Grotto Hill, where you can explore a pitch-dark labyrinth of ancient mines cut into the cliff; the Swiss Bridge, a rustic wooden structure perched over an unnervingly deep chasm; the Cleft, a path winding between two cliffs which narrows into a dark, creepy tunnel; and the Monument, a 100ft high column which can be climbed to enjoy panoramic views of up to 13 counties!
A land of thrilling rides and the terrific Splashland, amazing attractions and exhilarating activities are waiting to be discovered. From the Runaway Mine Train roller coaster and challenging Mini Diggers, to the indoor soft play Pirate Ship and Tropical House the fun is endless!
Carsington Water is a popular visitor attraction located a short distance from the Peak District National Park in Derbyshire.
Monikie Country Park, with its reservoirs, woodland and parkland, is an ideal location for a school visit to the countryside. The scenic surroundings offer many opportunities to enjoy the outdoors at any time of the year.
Situated in heart of the Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Bewerley Park Centre is ideally located. We have been providing high quality outdoor learning, using real outdoor activities in the natural environment, for over 70 years.
Play area and frame suited for under 8s, plus sand play, sit on toys, and it's very popular with squirrels so an excellent place to wildlife spot.
A family operated children's fair located in Sherwood Country Park with plenty for the small and mid range kids to play on from the caterpillar roller coaster and the ghost train to the classic tea cup ride and big slide.
Adventure playground plus BMX, football and cricket facilities. And a great new interactive water play area with loads of fun features now runs May through September.
This former ironstone quarry has a wonderful children's play area as well as a network of long and short trails through 83 hectares of mixed woodland. The park is home to the Quarryman's Rest Cafe, Jungle Parc UK and the Irchester Narrow Gauge Railway museum.
Jungle Parc high ropes adventure course
Once the home of Earls and Lords, Haigh Hall is surrounded by 250 acres of park and woodland, with magnificent views across the Douglas Valley to the Welsh Hills. Along with spectacular views across the Douglas Valley to the Welsh hills, there are 250 acres of park and woodland surrounding Haigh Country Park.
This park's vast open spaces are perfect for family fun, picnics and games as well as their regular events. Gorgeous sensory park nearby if you have younger children.
Near to the Riverside Park is Lockside Park Sensory Garden which overlooks Newark’s picturesque town lock.
Kingsbury Water Park Outdoor Education Centre is a purpose built non-residential centre situated within the 600 acre site of Kingsbury Water Park. We offer diverse programmes designed to enthuse, develop and inspire young people and adults to learn in an adventurous environment.
Hertfordshire and Middlesex Wildlife Trust, working in partnership with Lafarge Tarmac, are setting up an exciting new Forest School Project at Panshanger Park.
The Waters Edge Country Park, provides a relaxing and stimulating day out for people of all ages. Situated to the north of Barton-Upon-Humber, on the edge of the Humber estuary, Waters Edge contains a wide diversity of plant and wildlife. Established in 1996 on a site which had previously been a series of clay quarries, Waters Edge has breathed new life into what was once a derelict area.
Brixworth Country Park is a national showpiece for accessible countryside, providing access for all irrespective of physical or mental ability with features like easy access trails, and their wheel chair accessible bird hide.
Discover the story of the last Gnomes left in England on BB's Little Grey Men Trail.
Trail leaflet and audio tour available in the Country Park shop.
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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.
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