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WWF and Forestry England invite families to swap screens for trees this February half-term and discover a Feel Good Forest Trail
WWF and Forestry England are inviting families to explore a Feel Good Forest Trail this February half term (14th - 22nd), offering a fun, interactive way to enjoy nature, boost wellbeing, and connect with one another.
Following a successful launch last year, Feel Good Forest Trails has grown to 20 locations across the UK. Each interactive trail is packed with engaging forest-themed activities for children aged 6-12 and their families to learn about nature and discover how trees and forests around the world support a healthy planet. Families are encouraged to explore Forestry England's magnificent woodlands while learning about the Amazon Rainforest on the other side of the world.
Visitors at select destinations - Cannock Chase, Wyre Forest, Hicks Lodge, Sence Valley and Beechenhurst - can also share feedback and help shape future forest trails across England, ensuring these special places continue to support families’ wellbeing and connection with nature.
Your place in green space
Research commissioned by WWF found that 80% of the public wish they and their family spent less time on screens and more time in nature1, whilst mounting evidence proves outdoor activity can lower stress, lift mood, and boost energy levels2.
With Children’s Mental Health Week (9th-25th February) taking place this week, themed “This is My Place” and centred on helping children feel they belong, WWF and Forestry England are inviting families in the UK to discover how the natural world can be that nurturing place over the winter break.
The Feel Good Forest Trails are part of WWF's Prescription for Nature campaign, supporting families with ways to get their daily dose of nature to boost their wellbeing, and experience the benefits of winter woodlands first-hand.
Nature spotting
February brings an awakening of life to Britain's forests, with busy birds and early blooms reminding us that warmer days are just around the corner.
Families visiting a Feel Good Forest Trail this half term can marvel at winter wildlife in action, from long-tailed tits, scouring for moss, feathers and spider silk to build their dome-shaped nests, to great spotted woodpeckers, whose distinctive drumming can be heard echoing through trees as they establish their territories. Alongside the blossoming of snowdrops, ‘the messengers of spring’, the pastel yellow blooms of primroses are just beginning to appear on woodland floors too, providing vital early nectar for spring pollinators.
Jack Abrey, Head of Youth Engagement at WWF-UK, said: “Since joining the Scouts as a Beaver when I was six, forests have been my natural playground, giving me some of my earliest and happiest memories. The natural world doesn't ask anything of us - it just allows us to come as we are. Everybody belongs in nature.
Our Feel Good Forest Trails help families discover forests as their special place - somewhere to explore together, spot amazing winter wildlife, and experience real wellbeing benefits.”
Sarah Wood, National Learning Manager at Forestry England, said: “Winter forests are full of quiet magic, from early signs of spring to the sounds of birds preparing for the months ahead. The Feel Good Forest Trails invite families to notice these moments, feel good in nature, and enjoy everything the nations forests have to offer during the school break.”
WWF Youth Ambassador Will said: “As an animal lover, I've always found wonder, refuge, and beauty in our nation's forests. The UK's woodlands - many predating the Vikings - are home to an immense diversity of life, from the elusive pine marten to the striking bullfinch. Whether you're out with friends or walking the dog, Feel-Good Forest trails offer everyone a chance to experience these amazing habitats and see nature in all its glory.”
It’s not always easy for everyone to access natural spaces, so for families unable to visit a trail in person, WWF and Forestry England have created a free Feel Good Forest Activity Pack, filled with ideas to help families enjoy nature wherever they are.
Whether exploring a local forest or learning from home, the Feel Good Forest Trails are an invitation for families to step outside, feel good, and connect with the natural world.