Forest bathing in Warwickshire

What is left of the Forest of Arden is scattered across north and central Warwickshire in small, old woods. Ryton Wood near Coventry is one of the largest, ancient oak and small-leaved lime cared for by Warwickshire Wildlife Trust, and Ryton Pools Country Park sits beside it. Hay Wood near Baddesley Clinton is Forestry England oak and conifer, and Oversley Wood outside Alcester is a similar mix. Hartshill Hayes Country Park above Nuneaton has ancient woodland on a ridge over the Anker valley, and Coombe Abbey Country Park at Binley Woods combines parkland, lakeside and old woods.

A session is slow and small: a guide, a few people, two to three hours, and very little distance. You'll be offered simple invitations to notice the wood with your senses and given long quiet stretches to do so. Warwickshire's woods are close to Coventry, Rugby and Warwick, so sessions fit easily around a working week. Dates and prices are on each guide's profile.

Ryton Pools Country Park is the practical start, with a car park, cafe and surfaced paths that lead into Ryton Wood. Hartshill Hayes has a car park and kiosk and is a short drive from Nuneaton and Atherstone.