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- Wild Isles
HarperCollins, £25.
This comprehensive photographic manual, accompanying the BBC’s fresh documentary series of the same title, showcases Sir David Attenborough’s fascination with the diverse British wildlife in numerous habitats. Penned by Patrick Barkham, a natural history journalist, and Alastair Fothergill, a producer, every chapter in this book delves into a unique wild environment, from the wide assortment of grasslands to our coastal regions, forests, and woods, highlighting the diverse insect, bird, and mammal life they sustain.
- North York Moors & Yorkshire Wolds
Bradt Guides, £15.99.
A leisurely travel guide to one of the UK’s most cherished sceneries, this recently updated publication remains the sole comprehensive guide to this area. Penned by Yorkshire local, adventure lover and travel author Mike Bagshaw, it encompasses sandy beaches, woods, chalk grasslands, and heather-covered moors. The guide includes details on walking and cycling routes, along with locations ideal for observing otters, adders, and seabirds. Excursions for whale and dolphin watching are also included.
- Flight Paths
Swift Press, £16.99.
Spring welcomes an influx of bird species like swallows, redwings, and nightingales to the UK, but our knowledge about their seasonal voyages has been limited until recently. Bird enthusiast and science author Rebecca Heisman unveils the enigmas of bird migration, highlighting the group of peculiar ornithologists, engineers, and scientists who dedicated their lives to understanding birds’ flight patterns, behaviours, and destinations. The book provides vital knowledge to help safeguard and conserve the birds visiting our islands and beyond.
- British Woodland
Ebury Publishing, £22.
Enter the hidden universe of our forests through this enlightening book by bushcraft and survival specialist Ray Mears. He guides us through the history of British forests, from the first seedling planted thousands of years ago to the present. The book underscores how human intervention is crucial in shaping woodlands and offers an intricate exploration of some of the UK’s most extraordinary trees. Learn how to use pine and oak for navigation, make ropes from willow, and discover that the leaves of hawthorn and beech are edible.
- Springwatch: Great British Walks
BBC Books, £18.99.
Embark on a journey through the UK’s most biodiverse regions with 100 unique walks, handpicked for their distinctive flora and fauna. Penned by travel journalist Luke Waterson, based in Wales, with an introduction by Chris Packham, this new guide is released alongside the ongoing Springwatch BBC TV series. It features the most intriguing routes that showcase the diversity of British nature. With clear maps, route notes, sketches, and details highlighting the uniqueness of the featured natural landscapes, this guide is a walker’s perfect companion.
This article appeared in the June 2023 edition of National Geographic Traveller (UK)
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Table of Contents
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about UK Nature Travel Books
What is the focus of these UK nature travel books?
These UK nature travel books focus on exploring the diverse wildlife and natural landscapes of the UK, providing rich photography, detailed guides, and fascinating insights.
What topics are covered in the book “Wild Isles”?
The book “Wild Isles” explores a range of habitats in the UK, including grasslands, ocean shores, woodlands, and forests. It delves into the insect, bird, and mammal life found in these wild spaces.
Is “North York Moors & Yorkshire Wolds” a comprehensive guide to the region?
Yes, “North York Moors & Yorkshire Wolds” is a comprehensive guide that covers various aspects of the region, including sandy beaches, woodlands, chalk grasslands, and moors. It provides information on walking and cycling routes, as well as wildlife-watching areas.
What does the book “Flight Paths” focus on?
“Flight Paths” explores the mysteries of bird migration, profiling the efforts of ornithologists, engineers, and scientists dedicated to understanding birds’ flight patterns, behaviors, and destinations. It aims to provide insight into protecting and conserving bird species.
Who is the author of the book “British Woodland”?
The book “British Woodland” is written by Ray Mears, a bushcraft and survival expert. He takes readers on a journey through the history of British forests, showcasing how human intervention has shaped them and providing a detailed exploration of remarkable trees.
What makes “Springwatch: Great British Walks” unique?
“Springwatch: Great British Walks” offers 100 walks selected for their unique flora and fauna, showcasing the biodiversity of the UK. It features easy-to-follow maps, route notes, and detailed information about the natural landscapes, making it an ideal companion for walkers and nature enthusiasts.
More about UK Nature Travel Books
- Wild Isles – HarperCollins
- North York Moors & Yorkshire Wolds – Bradt Guides
- Flight Paths – Swift Press
- British Woodland – Ebury Publishing
- Springwatch: Great British Walks – BBC Books
5 comments
Wow, these UK nature travel books sound amazin’! The photography is gonna be mind-blowin’ and the guides will take ya on a journey through diverse habitats. Can’t wait to explore our wildlife!
North York Moors & Yorkshire Wolds? Count me in! This travel guide seems like a must-have for anyone who loves sandy beaches, woodlands, and moors. Gonna be a wild ride!
Flight Paths is goin’ to be a game-changer! Finally, we’ll learn ’bout bird migration from dedicated scientists. Excitin’ stuff! Time to protect our feathered friends.
British Woodland sounds fascinatin’! Ray Mears is a bushcraft expert, so I’m expectin’ an epic journey into our forests. Let’s learn how our ancestors shaped ’em and discover the hidden treasures within.
Springwatch: Great British Walks is callin’ my name! A hundred walks to explore the UK’s diverse nature? Sign me up! Gonna be wanderin’ through enchantin’ landscapes and discoverin’ unique flora and fauna. Can’t wait!