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A new survey has revealed that most adults across the UK look back fondly on their childhood experiences in nature, from climbing trees and building dens to playing in muddy fields and paddling in ponds. However, many now spend very little time outdoors in natural environments.
The poll, conducted for the The Wildlife Trusts, found that nearly 90% of adults remembered outdoor play as a joyful and freeing part of their childhood. In contrast, almost half of respondents said they currently spend fewer than three hours each week in green spaces such as parks, gardens, woods, or fields. Around one in ten said they spend less than an hour outdoors weekly.
The survey of 2,000 people showed a major shift from earlier years, with nearly two-thirds saying they had once spent more than half of their free time outside during childhood.
Health experts and environmental groups have repeatedly highlighted the benefits of spending time in nature. Studies suggest that regular access to green spaces can improve both physical and mental wellbeing, reduce stress, and even lower the number of GP visits. Research has also indicated that better access to parks and green areas could save the NHS billions of pounds annually.
Although the UK government has pledged to ensure everyone can reach a green space within a 15-minute walk from home, access remains limited for many households, particularly in poorer communities.
Dom Higgins, head of health and education at The Wildlife Trusts, said it was worrying that so many people now spend little time outdoors. He noted that not everyone has easy access to natural areas but emphasized that even local parks can provide important opportunities for relaxation, community connection, and interaction with nature.
He encouraged people to reconnect with outdoor spaces by reflecting on positive childhood memories and spending even a few minutes outside. Simple activities such as walking through a local park, listening to birdsong, or relaxing beneath trees can help people feel more connected to nature, he said.
The charity’s “30 Days Wild” campaign, which encourages people to engage with nature daily, has reportedly attracted around 3 million participants over the past decade.
Separate findings from a 2024 survey conducted for the National Trust showed that more than three-quarters of children want to spend more time outdoors. However, many parents said they were only able to take their children to natural spaces once a week or less due to limited accessibility.
Local authorities have also warned that financial pressures are affecting public parks and green spaces. Julie Jones-Evans from the Local Government Association said councils continue to face rising costs for essential services, leaving community parks vulnerable to funding cuts.
Meanwhile, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs said the government plans to improve access to nature through new green space projects, including national forests and river walks across England.
