Autumn Leaves: Ancient Woodland Guided Walk
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EmailExperience the magic of autumn with a deep dive into Leigh Woods: 500 acres of enchanted ancient woodland. With James as your guide, you’ll adventure through over 2,000 years of history and legend, and discover the secrets in these extraordinary woods.
Autumn is the best time to enjoy this Site of Special Scientific Interest: the wide variety of trees makes a vibrant display of warm colours all around. There are hundreds of ancient trees over 500 years old, and Bristol’s very own species of whitebeam that grow nowhere else in the world. An important site for biodiversity, there are over 300 species of fungi, as well as rare plants and plenty of animals - including peregrine falcons!
You’ll discover the unique stories of these wild woods throughout the ages. Explore the hillfort home of a nature-worshipping Celtic tribe, and the secret communities who still lived in the deep woods 50 years ago. Beneath the forest lies a vast treasure trove of celestite crystals - could that explain the mysterious tales of spirits and ghosts roaming the trees? No two walks are ever the same; who knows what we’ll find?
This guided walk blends history, folklore and forest bathing techniques to help you enjoy the Great Outdoors like never before. Through stories and sensory exploration, you’ll learn about the local landscape while getting all the benefits of being in nature: lowered stress, improved mood, increased energy, boosted immune system, and many more. It’s fun, it’s fascinating, and you’ll feel amazing afterwards. Win win!
This walk is suitable for young ones seeking adventure; those that want to discover Bristol’s best bits; or anyone that loves nature. All ages and experience levels are welcome, but a minimum level of mobility is required for gentle walking and possible muddy sections.
WHAT’S INCLUDED
- A walking tour around Leigh Woods, a 500 acre ancient woodland on the edge of Bristol city centre
- Guided by James; storyteller, historian and naturalist
- Explore famous sites as well as hidden sanctuaries deep in the woods
- Hear stories, facts and legends from over 2,000 years of history
- Practice take-home forest bathing techniques to deeply connect with nature and feel the full benefits of the environment
- A refreshing break from phone screens, email notifications and the anxieties of modern life
Minimum fitness level required.
Age restrictions: 0+
| Adult (Adult (general admission)) | £16 |
| Child (0-17 years) | £8 |
| Student | £8 |
| Senior Citizen | £8 |
| Concession ((Unwaged)) | £8 |
What people are saying
Oct 2024
Really enjoyed walking with James. We went to
Places we had never been to before despite visitin...
Sep 2024
Des and I had a relaxing and fun afternoon connecting with nature with James. We hopped on a bus...
How to get there
Facilities
- Experience takes place outdoors
On the day
Start and finish: Leigh Woods South Entrance, BS8 3PL
Distance: 4km
Duration: 2.5 hours
Terrain: Woodland: trails, grass, dirt paths. Boots preferable, trainers acceptable, barefoot possible. Please be prepared and equipped for all weathers
Ages: All
PLEASE NOTE that all walking, exploring and frolicking is undertaken entirely at your own risk.
Changes happen, don't worry
You'll be hosted by
Man About Country
I'm James, AKA Man About Country: adventurer, storyteller and naturalist. For over 5 years I've been leading walks that blend history, stories and nature connection to help people enjoy the Great British Outdoors like never before.
My mission is to get people outside. It makes us healthier, happier, and solves most of life's problems! But for many, the only connection to nature is watching it through a screen. I want people to experience first-hand just how beautiful this country really is.
Ours is a land of ancient stones and enchanted forests; druids and dragons; hobbits and Hogwarts. There is magic in this land, and I'm here to help you find it. All you have to do is step out your door - and let nature do the rest!
James Lawrence
Meet James, the Man About Country, your guide to the wonders of Britain's landscapes. A passionate storyteller and outdoor enthusiast, James has dedicated over five years to leading explorative walks and fostering a connection with nature. His blog, Man About Country, is a testament to his mission: to encourage urbanites and locals alike to discover the serene beauty that lies just a step away from their own front doors.
James believes that the Great British Outdoors is not just a scenic escape but a pathway to wellness and joy. He champions the idea that Britain itself is a premier holiday spot, negating the need for overseas travel. With James, every walk is an adventure, and the countryside is an open invitation to all city dwellers seeking tranquility and a touch of the wild.
Any questions?
Ask your question directly to Man About Country.