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.

 

See the list below for venues and providers who deliver this activity:

Grey Mare's Tail Nature Trail

Venue Type: 
Wildlife and Nature
Overall Rating: 
0

Best known for its magnificent waterfall - the fifth highest in the UK - and uniquely dramatic scenery, Grey Mare's Tail is a superb example of a hanging valley. The area boasts a rich history as well, and is important for its rare upland plants and wildlife.

School visits can be arranged by contacting the Property Manager on 07713 786230.

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The Isle Of Iona

Venue Type: 
Wildlife and Nature
Overall Rating: 
0

The Hebridean island of Iona has a significant history and a special, spiritual atmosphere that continues to attract and inspire thousands of visitors each year.

School visits are welcome, with environmental activities led by the Mull and Iona Ranger Service. Prior booking is required.

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Leith Hall Garden & Estate

Venue Type: 
Parks and Gardens
Overall Rating: 
0

A typical Scottish laird's residence brimming with family treasures, Leith Hall is set in a scenic estate containing a beautiful garden that overlooks some of Aberdeenshire's finest rolling countryside.

Schools are welcome for tours of the House, Garden & Estate. The gardens and estate provide a wonderful opportunity for schools to explore their natural surroundings.

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Pitmedden Garden

Venue Type: 
Parks and Gardens
Overall Rating: 
0

The heart of the property is the formal walled garden originally laid out in 1675 by Sir Alexander Seton. In the 1950s, the Trust set about re-creating the gardens following designs dating from the 17th century.

The grounds provide school groups with the opportunity to cover many different topics in the one day. Bug hunts and pond dipping in the surrounding estate link in with the insect life visiting the many coloured flowers in the formal garden, where children can learn about the natural history and life-cycles.

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Chestnut Conservation and Wildlife Park

Otter, Owl and Wildlife Park
Venue Type: 
Wildlife and Nature
Overall Rating: 
0

From the giant otter to polecats and free-roaming deer, there's something for all the family at the Chestnut Centre. In beautiful grounds of the Derbyshire Peak district, with a stream running through the valley, home to four species of otter, owls, pine martens, foxes, Scottish wildcats and sika.

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Kelmarsh Hall

Venue Type: 
Parks and Gardens
Overall Rating: 
0

Kelmarsh Hall is a Grade I listed country house built in 1732. The Kelmarsh Estate is now in the care of a charitable trust, charged with maintaining it in perpetuity for the benefit of the nation. In 2004, Kelmarsh (Events) Limited was set up as a commercial arm of the business to support the Charitable Trust.

The Kelmarsh Trust main aims and undertakings are to:
•    Conserve and manage the built and natural environment
•    Promote education about the hall, the estate and its natural history
•    Provide public access

School Visits

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West Affric

Venue Type: 
Wildlife and Nature
Overall Rating: 
0

West Affric is a vast and remote expanse of wild land, ideally suited to adventurous walkers who want to get off the beaten track.

It is situated at the western end of Glen Affric - sometimes described as the most beautiful of all the Scottish glens.

Please contact the National Trust for Scotland Ranger Service to find about activities suitable for groups.

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Kintail & Morvich

Venue Type: 
Wildlife and Nature
Overall Rating: 
0

One of the last few areas of wild land in Scotland, this rugged, remote estate in the West Highlands offers a true wilderness experience. The dramatic landscape encompasses the Five Sisters - a mountain ridge incorporating three Munros - and the Falls of Glomach, Britain's second-highest waterfall, as well as lochs, glens and coastline.

School groups can be accommodated, with environmental education provided by the Kintail Ranger Service, at the Outdoor Centre at Morvich.

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Mar Lodge Estate

Venue Type: 
Parks and Gardens
Overall Rating: 
0

Mar Lodge Estate occupies nearly 7% of the Cairngorms National Park, covers some of the most remote and scenic wild land in Scotland, including four of the five highest mountains in the UK.

The Ranger Service can offer a variety of activities relating to the specific habitats of the estate, such as woodland and scrub, burns, bogs and moorland. They can cover wider conservation issues, or offer activities relating to archaeology.

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Bodnant Garden

World-famous garden noted for its botanical collections
Venue Type: 
Parks and Gardens
Overall Rating: 
0

Marvel at plants from all over the world grown from seed and cuttings collected over a century ago on plant-hunting expeditions. Created by five generations of one family, this 32-hectare (80-acre) garden is superbly located, with spectacular views across Snowdonia.

With expansive lawns and intimate corners, grand ponds and impressive terraces, a steep wooded valley and stream, as well as awe-inspiring plant collections, there are continually changing glorious displays of colour.

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