Want to reconnect with nature? The Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire Wildlife Trust (BBOWT) are working with other local wildlife groups to help you discover the birds, animals and plants in and around Oxford.

Over a two week period, the Oxford Festival of Nature have organised talks, walks, family-friendly events, cruises, storytelling, and even a night-time safari to help us engage with our local environment and our furry/feathered neighbours who inhabit it. The festival is being launched at the Wild Fair, a free event packed full of activities including craft, face-painting, mini-beasts, birds of prey, and storytelling. For a quieter, more reflective way of connecting with your surroundings, take a picnic to the Oxford Quakers Meeting House and sit in their gorgeous garden during one of the Sounds of Nature in the City slots. For a more novel way of thinking about the natural world, head to Stand-up Philosophy: Nature for a comedic take on the wild, animals and the environment from stand-up comedians and experts.

There are many more events happening which get you up close and personal with the natural world including bat, moth, swift, and wild flower walks, as well as more wet-weather proof activities such as storytelling, indoor wildlife shows and book talks. The BBOWT website is stuffed full with useful info to help you make a difference to your local surroundings, including composting tips, how to recycle your old phone and ideas for family days out.