Nature themed festival brings together local organisations in celebration of ‘our wild roots’

Wild Roots Nature Fest will be held for the second time this year across Lancaster District. The festival is a celebration of the natural world and an invitation to explore the beautiful green spaces in and around Lancaster city. It is a chance for residents and visitors to connect with nature through creative workshops, wildlife walks and wellbeing sessions. 

Spending time in nature is an important part of maintaining good health and wellbeing. Whether it’s a quiet moment in a local park, a walk through a woodland, or taking part in a shared outdoor activity, connecting with the natural world can support both mental and physical health. 

It can also deepen our understanding of the environment, encouraging greater care for local green spaces and the wildlife they support. Wild Roots Nature Fest aims to make these experiences accessible, inclusive, and part of everyday life.

Ros Jones, founder of Wild Roots Nature Fest, says: “Reconnecting with nature and place can increase our sense of belonging, helping us feel more rooted in their local area and community. It has helped me get through some of my toughest mental and physical challenges, and I never feel alone when I’m immersed in nature. It gives us permission to slow down, feel calmer and more grounded, reducing the stress and strains of modern life. By bringing people together in welcoming outdoor settings, the festival offers a space to reconnect with nature, ourselves and each other.”

Between 6th and 14th June, a range of sessions and activities will take place in the city’s greenspaces. 

Highlights from the programme of events include a whole day of family-friendly activities in Freeman’s Wood, nature crafts workshops at Claver Hill community food growing project and a Big Green Day of connection at The Gregson Centre. With diverse events from voice activation to mandalas, bug and bird walks, foraging, T’ai Chi & Qigong and creative writing, there is something for everyone.

Events are free of charge, although visitors who can afford to are encouraged to make a donation to help with the costs of delivering the festival. Some events will be open to drop in, but most of them will need to be booked in advance on the festival website. 

Wild Roots Nature Fest was founded in 2025 by Ros Jones from Wildlife Wellbeing Walks CIC. It is coordinated in collaboration with FoodFutures, Claver Hill, Friends of Freeman’s Wood, Exergonic CIC and Friends of the Storey Gardens.

Everyone is invited to get involved throughout the festival and to share thoughts and experiences on social media with #WildRootsFest2026. 

The full festival programme can be found at bit.ly/wild-roots-2026

Programme brochures are available to pick up at The Storey, The Gregson and during events at the Wild Roots Nature Fest locations.