Nature in Exeter | Wellbeing in Nature

Welcome to Nature in Exeter. Nature in Exeter is a simple, easy to use directory of the city's parks, waterways and green spaces. Whether you're looking for somewhere to walk, relax or explore, you'll find all of Exeter's natural spots in one space.

The Benefits of Nature

Connecting with nature plays a vital role in supporting our wellbeing, offering a chance to slow down, reduce stress, and feel more grounded in our daily lives. Studies show that spending time in nature environments—whether green spaces like parks, or blue spaces such as rivers and lakes—can lower stress, improve mood, and enhance overall mental health. Research links nature exposure to reduced anxiety, improved attention, and even a lower risk of psychiatric disorders.

A new systematic evidence review confirms that nature-based interventions offered through Green Social Prescribing can significantly improve the wellbeing of people living with long-term conditions. Read more here.

The Government’s new Environmental Improvement Plan includes an ongoing commitment to Green Social Prescribing – including new measurements and a new investment partnership. Read more here.

What's On Locally

Discover what's happening in nature in your community with our locally curated events and activities

City Nature Challenge

Exeter has been entered into the City Nature Challenge for the first time!

This is a global wildlife recording event carried out from 24-27 April, using iNaturalist, a free recording app you can download to your phone. Once they have recorded the wildlife using the app, participants can go online to check that the wildlife identifications are correct.

Exeter University is planning a series of exciting events, primarily on the university campus, but also in the Lower Hoopern Valley and around the city. Events include:

How to use iNaturalist
Moth trapping - requires specialist equipment and an early morning
Reptile recording - requires equipment and an early morning
Nature walks - a walk with an expert where people record things they see and find
Bat walks - a walk with specialist recording equipment at dusk
Pond dipping - looking at freshwater invertebrates

Any other events looking at wildlife are also great - it could be footprint tunnels for hedgehogs, or just encouraging people to take photos of things they see every day in their back gardens using the app.

Wild Exeter – A City For People & Nature

Nature lovers of Exeter, Devon Wildlife Trust would love your thoughts! They've teamed up with the University of Exeter, Met Office and other partners in a project led by Exeter City Council to improve nature in the city. Devon Wildlife Trust are asking everyone who lives, works in or visits Exeter to tell us what nature means to you, your favourite green spaces and waterways, and how to help wildlife thrive in our city. You can read more about it on the Council's website here or via DWT's website here.

The Wild Exeter – A City for People & Nature survey is open for eight weeks until 28 April 2026, and your views will shape a shared plan for a greener, wilder Exeter! Paper copies of the survey are available from the reception at the Civic Centre, Paris Street, Exeter EX1 1JN.

Other partners supporting the survey include Devon Climate Emergency, In Exeter, and the National Trust Killerton.

National Lottery Fund Community Funding Online Webinar

Join the South West Region of The National Lottery Fund for an online webinar on 30 April about the Community Fund. Sign up to this free event here.

Haldon Forest Bark

Join with your four legged family members to celebrate all things dog at Haldon Forest Bark, Haldon Forest Park, Bullers Hill, Kennford, Exeter EX6 7XR.

The annual doggy day returns on Saturday 9 May 2026 from 10.00am to 3.30pm with trade stands, activities, competitions and fun dog show.

Does your pup have the perfect poise to wow our judge? Put your best paw forward in the charity dog show at 1.30pm. Categories include:

Best Rescue
Puppy Love
Old Timer 8+
Prettiest Girl
Most Handsome Boy
Most Appealing Eyes
Dog The Judge Would Like to Take Home
Best In Show

First place winners from all classes, with a special prize to be won from Kelly Marie Photography. Show entries will be taken on the day. Spaces are limited so arrive early to register. Optional charity donation of £1 per entry collected in cash on the day.

Double Locks Dog Fest

This year’s Dog Fest at Double Locks will be held on Saturday 27 June - save the date! Double Locks are calling for local stallholders, small businesses, and dog-related companies who’d like to join the event. They are looking for:

Agility courses
Dog accessories
Dog treats/food
Dog portrait artists
Dog caricature artist
Art/homeware
Dog-related gifts
Dog walking/sitting services

There will be a £10 donation which will go to charity. Message them at doublelocks@youngs.co.uk.

Mindfully Wild

Mindfully Wild is a new Community Interest Company based in Exeter, created to help people experience the wellbeing benefits that come from spending time outdoors. We are passionate about making sure that everyone has the chance to enjoy the benefits of nature and be part of caring for it.

Through conservation, mindful activities, and local projects, we bring people together to protect and restore the natural world, helping both people and planet thrive. From riverbank restoration and invasive species management to mindful walks and habitat creation, we help build confidence, connection, and community. Join us!