Natural Economy

Five iconic natural tourism projects make northwest England the one to watch for nature-focused experiences. Spoilt for choice? Read on – you should be!

Sound out a series of iconic Forest of Bowland walks by visiting www.forestofbowland.com Listen to the calls of the birds you might encounter, download easy-to-follow walk details and sketches of flora and fauna, watch hen harrier video clips and plan your day in this vibrant, unspoilt wildlife environment.

Whittle away your day in woodland adventure. From cocoa around the base camp fire, to creating objects out of wood, baking your own twist dough bread, learning woodland skills and creating a den, playing in the woods has never been more exhilarating. Head to www.playdaysinthewoods.com for more details.

Become a sustainable trailblazer at Martin Mere Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust in Lancashire this September, by following a dedicated route from railway station to bird-focused exploration. Get your binoculars trained and home in on www.wwt.org.uk/centre/121/martin_mere.html for details about a centre with over 100 species of rare and endangered ducks, geese, swans, flamingos and beavers, that you can visit in an eco-friendly way.

Feel comfortable amidst nature by staying with some of the cream of the Cheshire farm crop. Each accommodation provider puts the sizzle into breakfast and dangles an irresistible carrot for those wanting the ultimate rural nature package. Select your idyllic accommodation at www.cheshirefarmstay.co.uk.

Ospreys, oystercatchers, otters and orchids, scampering red squirrels and regal red deer. Cumbria’s awe-inspiring, rich wildlife offer has never been easier to access, enjoy and remember forever. Visit www.golakes.co.uk/wildzone to get on the trail of your desired experience and go wild about Cumbria!