Animals & Nature

At this time of year the cracks and gaps that make Hackney, East London, feel beautifully wild are host to some of my favourite flowers – hollyhocks.  They seem to spring up overnight and then…

Relaxing in the presence of poppies is a lovely way to unwind and drift off. Indeed there seems to be something about poppies that can stir great emotion within us. Perhaps it is the strange…

Every year in early Spring, many of Britain’s ancient woodlands undergo a magical transformation. A carpet of blue, delicate flowers lining a woodland glade is a magical sight and there is something truly enchanting about…

Weeds are a common enemy to many gardeners, and despite brutal attempts to eradicate them, somehow they manage to survive. They positively flourish in dry corners, brickwork and crevices. They regularly invade beds designated for pretty…

Near Llyn Gwynant, North Wales The landscapes of Britain and especially in northern England are full of scenes including livestock, and sheep are there in great number. As I wander, climb and trek around Britain,…

When climbing to high altitudes you cannot help but notice the landscape turn from greenery to barren rock/ice. As the oxygen thins out the capacity for life diminishes. Why even as you climb up you…

Very often as I set off on a local hike or a trip to the mountains I am asked questions from around the world on Twitter. Many and varied. I was struck by how many…