Lens on Nature

Reconnect With Nature And Rewild Your Spirit


Immerse yourself in the beauty and transformative power of nature with the "Lens on Nature" experience at Broughton Sanctuary. This unique experience offers you the opportunity to engage deeply with the sanctuary's rewilding efforts, explore its diverse landscapes, and reconnect with the natural world in meaningful ways.

About this offer

Join Joel Batchelor, our dedicated nature recovery ranger, for a rewarding volunteer experience at Broughton Sanctuary. Help with woodland maintenance, habitat creation, and fence line removal, gaining hands-on rewilding experience. Continue your journey with River, an expert ecologist, on a Nature Recovery Tour, exploring the sanctuary's diverse plant and animal life and learning about biodiversity efforts. The highlight is the Odyssey Trail, a 30km path through Broughton's 3,000 acres, featuring nature restoration projects, woodlands, historical landmarks, and mountain views. Enjoy immersive wellbeing experiences like the Fire Temple, Labyrinth, Wild Swimming Reservoir, and Moon Baths.

Detailed Information

Begin by volunteering with Joel Batchelor, our resident nature recovery ranger. Joel has planted tens of thousands of trees on the Sanctuary's land and will guide you through various rewilding activities. Whether you choose to contribute your morning, afternoon, or the whole day, you can expect to participate in woodland maintenance, habitat creation, and fence line removal, gaining hands-on experience in restoring natural ecosystems.

Your journey continues with a Nature Recovery Tour led by River, a freelance ecologist and geospatial specialist. River brings a wealth of knowledge in habitat restoration, biodiversity, and community engagement. As you explore the rewilding landscape of Broughton Sanctuary, you will encounter a rich variety of plants and animals and learn about the sanctuary’s efforts to promote biodiversity.

The highlight of your stay is the Odyssey Trail, a new 30km walking trail that weaves through Broughton's beautiful 3,000 acres. Over several days, explore the five interconnected loops of the trail, which feature a transformational nature restoration project, flourishing woodlands, historical landmarks, and stunning mountain views. The Odyssey Trail also offers immersive experiences with Broughton Sanctuary's signature wellbeing features, including the Fire Temple, Labyrinth, Wild Swimming Reservoir, and Moon Baths.

Throughout your stay in any of our Holiday Homes, enjoy the serene surroundings and the opportunity to connect with fellow nature enthusiasts. The Lens on Nature experience is more than just a getaway; it is an invitation to contribute to and learn about the important work of rewilding and nature recovery, leaving you with a profound appreciation for the natural world.

Sample Itinerary


Day 1: Rewild the Land with Joel Batchelor

Morning Session
9:00am - 12:30pm

Volunteer with Joel Batchelor: Begin your journey by contributing to the ongoing rewilding project at Broughton Sanctuary. This hands-on experience will give you an intimate understanding of the efforts required to restore natural ecosystems.

Lunch Break
12:30pm - 1:30pm

Enjoy a refreshing lunch in the serene surroundings of Utopia. Feel free to bring your own or pre-order a picnic basket.

Afternoon Session
1:30pm - 4:30pm

Continued Volunteering: Spend the afternoon furthering your contributions to the sanctuary’s rewilding efforts. Continue your work with Joel, applying the skills and knowledge gained in the morning session.


Day 2: Nature Recovery Tour & Odyssey Trail

Morning Activity
9:00am - 12:30pm

Nature Recovery Tour with River: Embark on a guided morning tour through the rewilding landscape of Broughton Sanctuary with River, a seasoned freelance ecologist and geospatial specialist. River’s expertise in habitat restoration and biodiversity will enrich your understanding of the sanctuary’s flora and fauna. Learn about the various species that inhabit the area and the efforts being made to promote biodiversity.

Lunch Break
12:30pm - 1:30pm

Relax and refuel with a wholesome lunch at Utopia. Enjoy the tranquil views and prepare for an afternoon of exploration.

Afternoon Activity
1:30pm - 4:30pm

Odyssey Trail Exploration: Begin your immersive journey through the Odyssey Trail, a series of five interconnected loops spanning 30km. Discover Broughton’s 3,000 acres of diverse landscapes, including flourishing woodlands, historical landmarks, and breathtaking mountain views. Highlights of the trail include:

  • Fire Temple: Engage in a transformative experience at this serene spot.
  • Labyrinth: Find inner peace as you navigate this contemplative path.
  • Wild Swimming Reservoir: Take a dip in the refreshing waters, a perfect way to connect with nature.
  • Moon Baths: Relax and rejuvenate in these unique baths under the open sky.

Evening:

Optional Evening Activity: End your day with a peaceful evening by the sanctuary’s campfire area, sharing stories and experiences with fellow nature enthusiasts.


Day 3: Continued Odyssey Trail

Morning Activity
9:00am - 12:30pm

Odyssey Trail Exploration Continued: Continue your exploration of the remaining loops of the Odyssey Trail. Delve deeper into the sanctuary’s nature restoration projects and soak in the beauty of the thriving ecosystems.

Lunch Break
12:30pm - 1:30pm

Savour your lunch at one of the stops along the trail, reflecting on your enriching experience.

Afternoon Activity
1:30pm - 4:30pm

Continued Exploration and Relaxation: Complete any remaining sections of the Odyssey Trail or revisit your favourite spots. Spend some time relaxing in the Moon Baths or enjoying a final swim in the reservoir. As your Lens on Nature experience comes to a close, take with you a deeper appreciation and understanding of nature restoration and biodiversity. Depart with lasting memories and perhaps a newfound commitment to supporting rewilding efforts in your own community.


Pricing and How to Book

This is a complimentary experience open to guests staying in the Holiday Homes on Broughton Sanctuary. The scheduled times can be viewed and booked via the monthly Avalon Wellbeing Activities
When reserving your stay with us add "Lens on Nature" to your holiday home booking.
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Broughton Sanctuary Nature Recovery Tree Guard Removal
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Terms and conditions

  • Lens on Nature experience can be added to all stays at Broughton Sanctuary Holiday Homes.
  • Open to non-residential visitors and residents of Craven.
  • Activities included in this experience are non-exchangeable, transferrable or redeemable for cash.