Britons are encouraged to embrace the great outdoors this festive season as part of an initiative to enhance mental and physical well-being. With winter wildlife flourishing, from flocks of thrushes to the muted calls of owls, nature offers a serene escape from the holiday hustle. Dr Amir Khan, a prominent GP and vice president of The Wildlife Trusts, highlights the therapeutic benefits of connecting with nature. He states, “Even in the stillness of winter, there’s so much wildlife to discover and delight in right on our doorstep.”
The Wildlife Trusts are promoting the annual **12 Days Wild Christmas challenge**, running from December 25 to January 5. This event encourages participants to engage in daily nature-inspired activities, fostering a deeper appreciation for the environment and its calming effects. Every year, over **10,000 people** across the UK participate, finding joy in simple acts like observing frost on leaves or listening to birdsong.
Among the activities suggested are invigorating **Boxing Day walks** at various scenic locations. Here are nine of the best places to enjoy nature’s wonders during the festive season:
1. Attenborough Nature Reserve, Nottinghamshire
Opened by the legendary naturalist **David Attenborough** in 1966, this reserve is renowned for its rich birdlife. Visitors can expect to see over **250 species**, including the stunning kingfisher and various duck species like teal and wigeon. The reserve features a welcoming café with views across the water, making it a perfect spot for wildlife enthusiasts to unwind. It remains open throughout the Christmas period, including Boxing Day.
2. Whitcliffe Common, Shropshire
Nestled near Ludlow Castle, Whitcliffe Common offers a picturesque riverside trail that leads through tranquil woodlands. Nature lovers can spot hawfinches and early snowdrops while listening to the calls of great-spotted woodpeckers. This free-to-enter location provides ample parking and is dog-friendly, making it an ideal choice for family outings.
3. Hickling Broad, Norfolk
Hickling Broad is a sanctuary for **common cranes**, particularly during the winter. Visitors are encouraged to head to the **Stubb Mill raptor roost** at dusk to witness the majestic cranes gathering. Conservation efforts have helped increase their numbers from three in 1979 to approximately **160** today. The reserve also offers views of wintering hen harriers and barn owls. Open daily from **10:00 to 16:00**, it includes a small café and nearby pub.
4. Lackford Lakes, Suffolk
Located just outside **Bury St Edmunds**, Lackford Lakes boasts diverse walking paths through woodlands and alongside lakes. Birdwatchers can spot tufted ducks and shovellers, while families can enjoy the accessible Kingfisher trail. The visitor centre serves quality coffee and local treats, making it a great family-friendly destination. The reserve welcomes visitors from dawn until dusk.
5. Westhay Moor, Somerset
Part of the **Avalon Marshes**, Westhay Moor is famous for its stunning starling murmurations, where thousands of starlings create mesmerizing aerial displays at dusk. The reserve is home to herons, wading birds, and otters. Visitors can explore the **3 km Otter Trail** or the shorter Coot Trail, with parking available for **£3**.
6. Staveley, North Yorkshire
A transformed quarry, Staveley is now a thriving wetland reserve just off the **A1M**. It attracts various wildlife, including geese and lapwings. With numerous accessible paths, it is suitable for prams and wheelchairs, ensuring everyone can enjoy the natural beauty. The reserve is free to enter, with parking available nearby.
7. Lytham St Annes, Lancashire
This coastal destination highlights the unique beauty of winter by the sea. Visitors can enjoy the dramatic scenery as waves crash against the shore. The Ribble estuary, home to **250,000** birds annually, provides opportunities to see flocks of pink-footed geese flying overhead. Lytham St Annes is an inviting spot for families seeking fresh air and stunning views.
8. Loch Ardinning, Scotland
Located north of **Glasgow**, Loch Ardinning offers two trails around a scenic reserve surrounded by forest and mountains. The shorter nature trail is accessible for all, while the longer muir path leads to wilder terrain. Birdwatchers can look for linnets and listen for song thrushes. Parking is available nearby, and dogs are welcome on leads.
9. Allt Rhongyr, Wales
Set in the **Brecon Beacons National Park**, Allt Rhongyr features rocky paths with breathtaking mountain views. The reserve is a haven for diverse wildlife, including ravens and various habitats. Hikers can explore the area leading to an ancient Iron Age hill fort, with stunning panoramas of the surrounding landscape. Entry is free, and dogs on leads are permitted.
Engaging with nature during the festive season can provide not only a delightful experience but also significant benefits for mental well-being. As Dr Khan emphasizes, moments spent in nature can help reduce stress and promote mindfulness. Whether exploring these scenic walks or participating in daily nature activities, individuals can find joy and tranquility this Christmas season.
