Over the last few years, a growing body of evidence has shown that spending time in nature is beneficial for our mental, physical and emotional health. While we are often encouraged to visit natural spaces, an important question remains: can we actually reach them easily, and do so without having a significant negative impact on the environment?

This book provides an answer by exploring some of Britain’s bountiful and beautiful natural spaces by taking low-carbon transport options.

A strong feature of this book is its consistent and easy-to-read layout. You can easily navigate to particular locations making it a straightforward reference book, perfect for taking on your travels. Places are broken down into four different sections: Southern England and Midlands, Northern England, Wales and Scotland.

Pictures accompany each recommendation highlighting either the picturesque location or a specific feature/species to look out for. World’s End (what a fantastic name) in Wrexham has a picture of Black Grouse and emblematic species to look out for when visiting. A further essential feature is the section on access and conditions, mentioning whether there are toilets on site and whether the topography allows for wheelchair access.

I have personally used the book to navigate to Berney Marshes, Rainham Marshes, Walthamstow Marshes and Richmond Park. In some instances knowing different ways to get to these locations can prove invaluable to avoid delays and cancellations. Maps are also provided which give a good indication of distance from train stations.

When going to Berney Marshes the book mentions the very limited services that run to the actual station – there is one a day outside the summer period. The reward however for taking the earliest train is quite a spectacle. Almost all the time you will be the only one disembarking at the station and once the train has departed you have the very rare experience of being on one of the most remote train station platforms in the country.

There is one natural limitation which is stated from the start, which is the physical format of the book means there could be changes to routes or timetables in the future. This is caveated with the essential information – in the words of Transport for London “check before you travel”.

To conclude I would highly recommend this book. Whether you are planning to travel for holidays or just looking for a day out, the information provided will help you to ensure you are travelling in an environmentally friendly way.

Reviewed by

Daniel Johnson