Discover National Parks Fortnight

The Discover National Parks Fortnight is observed in the United Kingdom for 14 days starting on April 4. It falls on April 4 through April 17. This two-week celebration aims to inspire people of all ages to explore the 15 National Parks located across England, Scotland, and Wales. It highlights these protected landscapes as vital spaces for health, well-being, and environmental conservation. By coordinating events and guided activities, the fortnight encourages visitors to experience the unique heritage and wildlife found within these designated areas.

Read also about Take a Walk in the Park Day

History of Discover National Parks Fortnight

The concept of National Parks in Britain grew from a long-standing movement for public access to the countryside. In the 19th century, figures like William Wordsworth argued that the Lake District should be viewed as a sort of national property in which every person has a right. By the 1930s, public pressure culminated in events like the Mass Trespass on Kinder Scout, where protesters demanded the right to roam across private moorlands. This activism eventually led to the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act of 1949, which established the framework for the parks we see today. ¹

Discover National Parks Fortnight was launched more recently as a dedicated promotional window to celebrate this legacy. National Parks UK created the campaign to raise the profile of the parks and to help people understand their diverse purposes, from preserving biodiversity to supporting local farming communities. The timing often coincides with the arrival of spring, encouraging a new season of outdoor recreation. Since its inception, the fortnight has grown into a collaborative effort involving park authorities, local businesses, and conservation charities to showcase the best of Britain’s “breathing spaces.”

Why is Discover National Parks Fortnight important?

This fortnight is essential for reconnecting the public with the natural world and promoting the benefits of outdoor activity. Many people living in urban areas may not realize how accessible these vast, protected landscapes are or what specific activities they offer. By focusing two weeks on these regions, the campaign breaks down barriers to entry and provides clear information on how to visit responsibly. It emphasizes that these parks are not just for scenery but are active hubs for education, exercise, and mental rejuvenation.

Additionally, the event highlights the ongoing need for conservation and sustainable management. National Parks are home to rare species and fragile ecosystems that require constant care and funding. The fortnight serves as a platform to discuss the challenges facing these areas, such as climate change, erosion, and the balance between tourism and nature protection. It fosters a sense of pride and stewardship among the population, ensuring that future generations will continue to value and protect these national assets.

• It introduces new visitors to the diverse landscapes found across the UK.
• The campaign supports local economies by promoting rural tourism and businesses.
• It raises awareness about the importance of biodiversity and habitat restoration.
• Outdoor activities during the fortnight help improve public physical and mental health.
• The event provides educational opportunities to learn about local history and geology.

How to Celebrate Discover National Parks Fortnight

The best way to participate is to visit one of the 15 National Parks and join a scheduled event. Many parks offer ranger-led walks, stargazing sessions, or wildlife spotting tours specifically for the fortnight. These guided experiences provide expert insight that visitors might miss when exploring on their own. Families can often find “Discovery Days” featuring hands-on activities like pond dipping or traditional craft workshops that make the outdoors engaging for children.

For those who cannot visit in person, digital engagement is a significant part of the celebration. Sharing photos of favorite park memories or learning about the different parks through online resources helps spread the message of conservation. You can also volunteer for a practical conservation task, such as path maintenance or tree planting, which many park authorities organize during this period. Respecting the Countryside Code by leaving no trace and staying on marked paths ensures that your celebration of the parks does not harm the environment you are enjoying.

• Plan a hike on a new trail to see a different part of the park.
• Join a guided tour to learn about the area’s unique wildlife and plants.
• Take photographs of the landscape to enter local photography competitions.
• Volunteer for a day of litter picking or habitat management.
• Visit a park information center to learn about its history and culture.

Discover National Parks Fortnight Dates Table

1. https://www.nationalparks.uk/2022/04/01/discover-national-parks-fortnight-do-something-new-share-your-story/[↩]