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Spring in England, our favourite bits
By Founder Alison Howell
1) The sense of happiness gained from seeing the burst of colour following winter’s sleep. Look out for indigo coloured bluebells, white symmetrical flowers of the wild garlic, beautiful pink blossoms and a multitude of other wild flowers and blooms. We’ll give you a wild flower guide in your Walk and Explore Box so that you can identify our local English varieties.
2) The great variety of weather. Sometimes all in one day. Spring can bounce from cool to warm in a moment transforming landscapes and countryside continually as it does. It keeps us on our toes! We’ll provide you with an up to date local weather forecast a few days before you depart.
3) The uplifting sound of bird song. Birds love spring. And love to sing as they work!
4) The joyful feeling of those first rays of warmer sunshine of the year on your skin. All that vitamin D!
5) The first lunch or drink outdoors of the year. Everything tastes better outdoors. We’ll make sure you know our top hand-picked pubs and cafes where you can enjoy lunch en-route and we’ll tell you about village shops we know of in case you fancy a Spring picnic.
6) The sight of young animals and birds. Spring is a time for new life in the animal kingdom as well as plants. Look out for lambs, chicks and listen out for baby birds.
7) Knowing you are doing something fantastic for your health and well being and enjoying yourself at the same time.
8) The delight of Spring’s all encompassing hold. Spring changes the landscape the weather and the wildlife. Every step you’ll be spoilt for choice with views, life and sounds.
9) The scent. Whether wild bluebell’s delicate and evocative scent or the pungent unmistakable smell of wild garlic in English woodlands. Spring smells wonderful!
10) Knowing that following Spring will come Summer. With even more natural delights to enjoy.
Top tips for Spring walking
1) Dress in several thin layers for Spring walking. English Spring weather can vary enormously from warm and sunny to cool and cloudy, breezy or rainy. Be prepared for multiple weathers, sometimes during the same day by having a waterproof, warm fleece, sun hat and sun cream with you. You can more easily adjust a thin layer or two to be warmer or cooler.
2) Always take a mobile phone with you and know the contact numbers for an emergency.
3) Take plenty of water. It is a misconception to think you need to drink less in Spring than other times of the year. You will be exerting yourself and exercising so take plenty of water with you.
4) Waterproof walking boots are essential in Spring. Not only will these protect your ankles and give you support, and also grip if you encounter mud or wetter sections, but they will ensure your feet stay comfortable and dry. Comfortable feet are vital for enjoyment!
5) Don’t forget your camera. Spring often provides multiple opportunities for taking great photographs in different weather conditions. Sunshine on blossom or a breeze blowing through wild bluebells for example.