08.05.2025
Spending time outdoors surrounded by nature and wildlife has a powerful impact on our mental health. It lifts our spirits, reduces stress, and encourages a sense of calm and connection. Over the past couple of weeks, we've been lucky to take advantage of the sunshine and get outside for two wonderful Big Walks—and we'd love for even more of you to join us next time!
Kentish Town City Farm
Our first walk took us to the lovely Kentish Town City Farm, where we explored the peaceful surroundings and met the animals lovingly cared for by the staff. The short journey from Cricklewood Station was made all the more enjoyable by the sunshine and the cheerful company of fellow walkers. At the farm, we were greeted by some very relaxed pigs basking in the shade—a definite highlight!
For many of our walkers, visiting the farm stirred up memories of childhoods spent in the countryside or around animals. These walks are more than just a breath of fresh air—they’re moments of reflection, shared stories, and gentle conversation. Simply spending time with animals can be deeply comforting and help reduce feelings of anxiety or isolation.
Bird Spotting at The Welsh Harp
Our second walk took to the skies—literally! We joined up with The Canal and River Trust to take part in a bird spotting walk around the beautiful Welsh Harp. Guided by the brilliant Sam, a professional bird spotter, we learned how to identify birds by sound and sight. The experience was both educational and uplifting, and the group bonded over the shared discoveries.
We spotted a wide range of wildlife including kestrels, robins, herons, chiffchaffs, and even a family of terrapins and dragonflies! Every bird sighting brought excitement and conversation, turning the walk into a peaceful yet invigorating journey through one of our local green spaces.
These walks are about so much more than exercise—they help combat loneliness, encourage community connection, inspire learning, and give us a chance to rediscover forgotten interests or spark new ones. Whether it’s chatting about birds, reminiscing about life on a farm, or simply enjoying the quiet of the outdoors, there's something for everyone.
One walker said "these Ashford Place walks are simply the best thing that has happened to me in a very long time. I love them and thank you for accompanying us."
Come Walk with Us – And Lead the Way!
We’re always looking for new people to join our walks—and we’re also looking for volunteer Walk Leaders to help us keep the momentum going. If you enjoy nature, care about mental wellbeing, and want to support others in staying active and connected, we’d love to hear from you.
Join us for our next walk—you never know what you might discover, in the wild or within yourself.
