Research shows that exercising in nature is essential for improving wellbeing. It can reduce stress, anxiety, depression, and promote happiness.
“Green Spaces Are Go” is highlighting the health benefits of exercising in a park or green spaces and encourages people to be active in them.
As taking part in activities in the beauty of nature can make exercise even better for you, we have organise a series of events to take place in Telford and Wrekin’s green spaces throughout the year.
Through the Green Spaces Are Go Grant Fund, Telford & Wrekin Council have funded not-for-profit organisations to hold a series of events between the summer and the end of the year.
We have 23 nature reserves and more than 300 green guarantee sites in Telford and Wrekin – free to all. Whether you make it to an event or not, Telford and Wrekin is the perfect place for green space exercising.
Green Spaces Are Go Events
African Caribbean Community Initiative cycling group
Join in free cycling sessions at Telford Town Park for members of the African Caribbean Community Initiative and attendees of Telford Mind’s Calm Cafés.
There will be eight sessions running from 1.30-3.30pm starting on 22nd June 2022. For more information contact Themba on 07707 070478 or Anaisa on 07483 310580
Every Thursday from July 27 to the 31 August, 1.30-3.30pm in Telford Town Park
Cycling with Travel Telford
Bike Rides in the Park
On Sunday 22 October you have the opportunity to get some tips on riding a bike in your local park with Telford Bike Hub!
The Telford Bike Hub Team will be out and about helping both children and adults learn to ride and build confidence in your local green spaces.
The team will be offering help and guidance for FREE to get people of any age riding on 2 wheels.
Places will be offered on a first come first served basis in each location.
No need to book. Bikes and helmets are provided.
On Sunday 22 October at:
- 10am – 11am – Dale End Park, Coalbrookdale
- 12pm – 1pm – Dawley Park, Dawley
- 2pm – 3pm – Hartshill Park, Oakengates
- 4pm – 5pm – Bowring Park, Wellington
To find out more go to https://www.facebook.com/TravelTelford
Go for a Glow Ride!
Travel Telford are providing three Glow Rides for Green Spaces Are Go, each with a different theme.
- Wednesday 1 November: Halloween theme – decorate your bike with spooky lights, put on your best Halloween costume and help shine the light on cycling around Southwater and Telford Town Park.
- Thursday 30 November: Be Bright, Be Seen theme – wear your brightest clothing and reflective gear so we can shine as we ride around some of our local green spaces.
- Tuesday 19 December: Christmas theme – dress up in Christmas jumpers, santa hats and decorate your bikes with tinsel and lights for this festive cycle ride around some of our local green spaces.
There will be two rides on each date:
Family & Novice riders – 5.30pm to 6.30pm
Advanced riders – 7pm – 8pm
For full details and for how to book your place see https://www.facebook.com/TravelTelford/ For queries email thebikehub@telford.gov.uk
Dawley Park instructor led fitness sessions
The Friends of Dawley Park have organised free “walk and talk” activity sessions, run by AFC Telford’s trained instructors, to take place throughout July, August and September at Dawley Park. The activity programme will start with light warming up exercises, moving on to walking and wheeling circuits around the park, leading to the use of soft ball exercises, hand weights and the use of the multi gym, finishing with some stretching exercises. It’s a great way to feel fitter, healthier and improve your mental health.
- Mondays 10am – 12pm for anyone aged 50+
- Mondays 12pm – 2pm for a disability friendly session for people of any age
Where: Dawley Park
When: Every Monday in July, August and September.
For more details email Ian at Foundation@afctu.co.uk.
Donnington outdoor gym sessions
You don’t have to be fit to do this, but you will get fit by doing it! Book on a free 45 minute session led by a qualified coach. Open to all ages. Under 18s can take part with parental supervision.
When: Every Monday 6am and 10am, Wednesday 6.15pm, and Saturday 10am.
Where: The Donnington Recreation Ground outdoor gym, TF2 8HT.
Book your place now by emailing: Donningtonoutdoorgym@outlook.com
Family nature walk and bonfire at Apley Woods
Shropshire European Organisation are holding a series of events at Apley Woods. Supported by Shropshire Wildlife Trust the group will explore the woodland on a walk, join family activities to learn more about nature and share a traditional evening gathering around a fire with Eastern European food and singing.
The event is open to everyone but organisers are hoping to bring Eastern European communities together to be active in our green spaces.
Attendees will be requested to pay a contribution towards refreshments.
Where: Apley Woods
When: 16 July 3-8pm, 16 September 3pm-7pm, 1 October 2pm-6pm, 21 October 3pm-7pm.
Booking required: email: shropeuropeorg@gmail.com, or call: 07894739300.
Friends of Hollinswood & Randlay Valley walking events
The Friends of Hollinswood & Randlay Valley have creating a series of walking trails, bench to bench walks, walking groups and other events and activities in Randlay Valley for Green Spaces Are Go. Make sure to wear suitable footwear/outdoor clothing.
Where: The Pavilion (TF3 2DN)
When:
- 30 August, 10:30am
- 27 September, 10.30am
- 21 October, 12-2pm
- 25 October, 10.30am
- 27 October, 4.30-6.30pm (starts at The ‘Woodlands School’ area of Randlay Valley , not the pavilion)
- 29 November, 10.30am
- 27 December, 10.30am
No booking required but further information is available from Hollinswood & Randlay Parish Council – 01952 567961
Friends of Holmer Lake and Madebrook
Join in light conservation work in a fun and friendly environment with the Friends of Holmer Lake and Madebrook. No matter your age or ability, all help is welcome in their mission to improve the nature reserve for people and wildlife. By taking part in the conservation work, you’ll be meeting lots of friendly, like-minded people who love their local area. The group always finish our work with a warm brew and a biscuit to celebrate a job well done.
When: 2nd Saturday of every month. 9.30-11.30am.
Where: Meeting at the Homer Lake Car Park, off Holmer Lane
For more information visit the ‘Friends of Holmer Lake and Madebrook’ Facebook page.
Friends of the Telford T50 Trail
A Stroll Around Lilleshall
These events celebrate the installation of 2 new kissing gates on the T50 that will open up access to the beautiful Lilleshall Hill Local Nature Reserve. Join us for an easy walk of less than 4 miles through the gorgeous autumn/winter countryside, followed by FREE refreshments in Lilleshall Memorial Hall.
Where: Hillside, Lilleshall, Newport TF10 9HG
When:
- Saturday 21 October, 11.30am – 1.30pm
- Saturday 9 December, 11.30am – 1.30pm
To book a FREE place see visit the Events page on the Telfordt5050trail website
Nordic Walking in Lilleshall
Nordic Walking is great for fitness, exercise, weight loss and sociability. With its special pole walking technique it harnesses the power of the upper body to turn walking into a bit of a workout! It’s ideal for all ages, fitness levels and abilities, due to the special walking poles which are provided for each walker to use, which actually helps the person to move forward with every step, as well as providing support and a gentle upper body workout. It’s great fun too, as it’s easy to walk and chat at the same time, as you move through the beautiful surroundings of the walking trail. Nordic poles supplied. The walk will be followed by FREE refreshments in Lilleshall Memorial Hall.
Where: Hillside, Lilleshall, Newport TF10 9HG
When:
- Saturday 21 October, 11.30am – 1.30pm
- Saturday 9 December, 11.30am – 1.30pm
To book a FREE place see visit the Events page on the Telfordt5050trail website
Telford Coronation Walks – Celebration Event
Blow away those Christmas cobwebs and get ready for the New Year by putting your best foot forward on this gentle walk through some wonderful winter landscapes. Ideal for working off Christmas pudding, cakes, mince pies and too much turkey! This event celebrates a project creating 23 new waymarked routes throughout Telford and Wrekin, thanks to the Coronation Events fund. You can choose between a short walk of just over 2 miles or a longer one if you prefer. The walk will be followed by FREE refreshments in Lilleshall Memorial Hall.
Where: Hillside, Lilleshall, Newport TF10 9HG
When: Saturday 30 December, 11.30am – 1.30pm
To book a FREE place see visit the Events page on the Telfordt5050trail website
Green Spaces Strolls
Our Environment and Neighbourhood Team have organised some events to help you get to know your local green space. To book a place email parks.greenspaces@telford.gov.uk or call 01952 384384.
The Archaeology of Apley
- Tuesday 12 December, 1pm to 3pm
Meeting location: Entrance of woodland on Apley Castle Road, TF1 6RH – parking area on left hand side by main entrance or additional on Peregrine Way TF1 6TH
Take a step back in time and join us on a short historic guided walk around Apley Local Nature Reserve, to learn about the old Apley estate and its surrounding areas.
Spot the Birds of Dothill
- Thursday 14 December, 1pm to 3pm
Meeting location: Severn Drive, by Dothill Primary School TF1 3JB – parking along road
Join us on a bird watching experience as we take a short, gentle stroll through the attractive surroundings of Dothill Local Nature Reserve. Make sure to download the Merlin App on your devices to record the sounds of the birds to help identify them.
Bench to Bench ‘Walk And Talk’ through the Cockshutt
- Tuesday 19 December, 1pm to 3pm
Meeting location: The Nabb, top of Willows Road, St. Georges TF2 9AE
Join us on for a short guided bench to bench walk around the beautiful Cockshutt Local Nature Reserve, to become lost in nature and surrounded by wildlife.
The Magic of Trees of Apley
- Thursday 28 December, 10am to 12noon
Meeting location: Entrance of woodland off Peregrine Way near the “horse gate” – please park at the Apley Woods car park on Peregrine Way TF1 6TH
A stroll around the beautiful Apley Wood aimed at families with children – come along and learn all about the special collection of trees you can find in the wood, including tree-themed activities, plus hints and tips for tree identification.
Have a go archery sessions
Inspired by Robin Hood, Katniss Everdene, Meridith or Hawkeye? Then come and have a go at archery at Telford Town Park this summer! Bowbrook Archers are running 4 archery have a go sessions at Telford Town Park during August. All equipment and coaching is provided and we can cater for all ages and abilities. There is no charge and if you enjoy it, we can tell you how to get involved at a club near you.
Where: Telford Town Park – at the “Disc Golf Course”
When: 9, 16, 23 and 30 August, 12noon – 3pm.
No booking required. All you have to do is turn up and have a go!
Lawley’s nature and history trails
Lawley Partnership Board are installing new interpretation boards and noticeboards in and around Lawley to keep residents and visitors informed of the walks, wildlife, events and activities in the area, to encourage everyone to get active out and about the local area!
The local History Trail is being revamped with Lawley and Overdale Parish Council, which will include Newdale, Lawley Common and Dawley Bank.
New walking routes are being plotted too, which will include new seating areas for regular rest stops for those who need them. Each walk will have its own route map on signage boards with information on resting sites, history and wildlife. QR codes on waymarkers will also be located along walking routes which will give online access to the walking routes, additional information and images.
A series of walks have been organised by Lawley and Overdale Parish Council to use the new features and celebrate all this work:
History Trail walks in and around Lawley
These are a series of different walks that take in some of the fabulous green spaces around Lawley – a chance to take in local nature and see some historical landmarks that also exist within these areas:
- Saturday 14 October 2023, 12noon – Lawley History Trail and Launch Event meeting at Lawley Parish Council/Bournville Village Trust Office. The launch walk will bring everyone back to Lawley’s Celebrating Lawley Community & Food Festival event, where refreshments will be available
- Tuesday 14 November 2023, 11am – Newdale and Overdale History Trail meeting at Morrisons
- Wednesday 13 December 2023, 11am – The Rock and Old Park History Trail – meeting at Lawley Parish Council/Bournville Village Trust Office
Lawley Men’s Walking group
Men of all ages and disabilities are invited to attend and join these guided leisurely walks around Lawley & Overdale area. A great opportunity to take in local nature, see some historical landmarks, make friends and enjoy a chat:
- Thursday 26 October 2023
- Thursday 9 November 2023
- Thursday 23 November 2023
- Thursday 7 December 2023
- Thursday 21 December 2023
All meeting at the Morrisons in Lawley at 6pm
For all walks please wear suitable footwear/outdoor clothing.
For more details visit Lawley & Overdale Parish Council Facebook page via https://www.facebook.com/LOParishCouncil
To get involved in the work of the project or find out more contact enquiries@lawleyoverdale.org.uk or call 01952 507865
Newport’s Walks from The Guildhall
Newport Town Council will be launching a series of “Walks from The Guildhall”. There will be long and short walks to suit people of all abilities, and will take in some of the fabulous green spaces in the Newport area. Maps of the walks will available free of charge from The Guildhall, the Library, The Hub and the Newport Town Council website.
There will be a guided walk to launch the new funded maps on:
Thursday 26 October
Meet at 10am at The Guildhall in Newport
Led by Newport Shropshire Community Walking Group
The walk will take in the High Street, residential streets and green spaces and will end with free refreshments back at The Guildhall.
For more details visit Newport Town Council’s Facebook page via https://www.facebook.com/NewportShropshireTownCouncil or their website via https://www.newportshropshire-tc.gov.uk/
All the new walking maps are downloadable via http://www.newportshropshire-tc.gov.uk/local-information/walks-from-the-guildhall-maps/ as well as available for collection from the Guildhall and the café next door.
Oakengates outdoor gym sessions
Oakengates Town Council are hosting free adult fitness classes at the Outdoor Gym in Hartshill Park every Saturday. Join Tess for a fun engaging sports session utilising the outdoor gym equipment in Hartshill Park.
Where: Hartshill Park
When: Every Saturday 10am
For more information contact thewakes@oakengates-tc.gov.uk or call 01952 567500
Parkour sessions at Telford Town Park
Shropshire Youth Support Trust is excited to present Parkour sessions tailored to 16-24 year olds. Taking place at Telford Town Park, participants navigate through urban landscapes and natural surroundings, mastering movements like running, jumping, climbing, and acrobatics. It’s the ultimate way to challenge yourself, both physically and mentally.
Their Parkour sessions are designed to provide a supportive and empowering environment for young individuals like you. You can look forward to:
- Expert Guidance: Our certified instructors are well-versed in Parkour techniques and safety protocols, ensuring you learn in a controlled and secure setting.
- Skill Development: Whether you’re a complete beginner or have some experience, our sessions cater to all levels, helping you progress and achieve your goals.
- Boosting Confidence: Overcome obstacles, set new personal records, and boost your self-confidence as you conquer challenges you never thought possible.
- Fun and Adventure: Experience an adrenaline-filled adventure like no other and make unforgettable memories with like-minded peers.
Where: Telford Town Park by the climbing wall.
When: Tuesday August 1 (3.30pm – 4.50pm) and Thursday August 3 (4.30pm – 5.50pm). Then every week from these dates for the next 16 weeks.
Contact Shropshire Youth Support Trust to express your interest in the Parkour sessions. Their dedicated team is ready to answer any questions you may have and guide you through the registration process. Phone: 01952 299214 Email: hello@systbusiness.co.uk
PODS (Parents Opening Doors) Charity
PODS (Parents Opening Doors) is an independent Telford and Wrekin based charity for parents or carers who have a child or young person between the ages of 0 and 25 years with a disability or additional needs. For Green Spaces Are Go, PODS and Shropshire Wildlife Trust have joined forces to provide some really exciting woodland sessions at Lightmoor Nature Reserve in Telford!
Where: Lightmoor Nature Reserve
When:
- 23 September, 10am to 11.30am – Nature Creations, scavenger hunt, clay tile making, IDs, bug hunting and den building
- 7 October, 10am to 11.30am – Slack lines and challenges, IDs, bug hunting and den building
- 21 October, 10am to 11.30am – Clay hedgehogs, hedgehogs and bonfire night, IDs, bug hunting and den building
- 1 November, 10am to 12noon and 1pm to 3pm – Campfire cooking and forest explorers, IDs, bug hunting and den building
- 18 November, 10am to 11.30am – Ice treasures and winter bird feeds, helping nature over the winter months, IDs, bug hunting
For more details email: jeannie@podstelford.org
Southall School
The Green Spaces Are Go grant funding has enabled Southall School to buy a range of International Orienteering Federation maps, markers and panels, which are specifically designed to the school grounds and the needs of the young people who will use them.
The orienteering courses will cover different curricular activities such as phonics and number control to help deliver learning across the whole curriculum, and will provide more opportunities for children and young people to take part in physical activity in an outdoor setting.
The Orienteering courses and maps can be used not only by pupils of Southall School, but also by Telford and Wrekin Summer Schools that work with children and young people with additional or special needs. This community asset can be used as a case study for other groups who may wish to create such a resource in their local area. To find out more email rob.davies@southallschool.com or call Rob at Southall School on 01952 387600.
Tai Chi in the Park
Whatever your background, your age, or your fitness, everyone is welcome to join in Tai Chi in the Park. Each session will have one hour of gentle exercises, including a group warm up, Tai Chi, Qigong and meditation with music. There will also be time afterwards for a mingle and chat with refreshments, as well as an optional walk around the Telford Town Park afterwards.
When: 25 June, 9 July, 23 July, 20 August, 10 Sept, 8 Oct – 10am-12pm
Where: Telford Town Park, meeting by the Band Stand
Book your place now
Telford and Wrekin CVS holiday programme for adults with Autism
Open to those registered wit the Autism Hub aged 16 and over. Telford & Wrekin CVS are hosting a free 10 week programme of accessible activities for adults with autism. The activities include, football, walking, boxercise, yoga, tai chi, tennis and mindful movement. You need to be registered with the Telford Autism Hub to take part.
Where: Various
When: Every Friday from 28 July, 2.15 – 3.45pm
For more information and to book, contact: admin@telfordautismhub.org.uk
Telford Cyclones Junior Football Club
For Green Spaces Are Go, Telford Cyclones Junior Football Club will be running three new teams for the year. There will be a team for under 9s, under 8s and a mini cyclones team for 3-4 year olds.
Where: John Randall School, TF7 4DS for under 8s and under 9s. Mini Cyclones, Oakengates Sports Hall.
When: Under 9’s – Wednesdays 18:00-19:30. Under 8’s – Thursdays18:00-19:30. Mini Cyclones – Saturday mornings 10:00-11:00
Get in touch, email: telfordcyclonesjfc@gmail.com
Telford Libraries
Telford & Wrekin Council’s library service will be bringing story toddle sessions for under 5s to several locations for Green Spaces Are Go. There will also be similar nature themed sessions for those aged 4 – 11.
Adults and children will need suitable clothing and footwear for the weather, to take part in the Story Toddles and Walks.
For more information and to book your place email libraryenquiries@telford.gov.uk or go to www.telford.gov.uk/libraries
Story Toddles
| Oakengates Library | Monday 24 July | 10.30am |
| Wellington Library | Monday 24 July | 2.30pm |
| Dawley Library | Monday 31 July | 10.30am |
| Southwater Library | Monday 31 July | 2.30pm |
| Donnington Library | Wednesday 2 August | 10.30am |
| Newport Library | Wednesday 2 August | 2.30pm |
Story Walks
| Hadley Library | Wednesday 26 July | 10.30am |
| Newport Library | Wednesday 26 July | 2.30pm |
| Stirchley Library | Thursday 27 July | 10.30am |
| Wellington Library | Thursday 27 July | 2.30pm |
| Madeley Library | Tuesday 1 August | 10.30am |
| Southwater Library | Tuesday 1 August | 2.30pm |
Telford Town Park bench to bench walk with Sal Tonge
Telford & Wrekin Libraries and Telford Town Park have created a brand new bench to bench walk around the Town Park. Starting from the bench on the Terrace of Southwater One, the walk moves from bench to bench with plenty of opportunity to rest and enjoy the scenery. Each bench will have a QR code attached that links to a specially commissioned rhyme about Tommy and Tilly, written and performed by Sal Tonge.
The walk will be launched during half term and to celebrate the launch Sal will be performing her rhyme live.
The events are open to everyone, and follows tarmac paths suitable for wheelchairs, pushchairs etc.
Participants should wear clothing and footwear suitable for the weather.
Where: Southwater One and Telford Town Park
When:
- Thursday 2 November from:
11.15am – 12.15pm
1pm – 2pm
2.30pm – 3.30pm
- Friday 3 November from:
11am – 12pm
1pm – 2pm
2.30pm – 3.30pm
To book your place visit What’s on in Libraries – Telford & Wrekin Council
Veterans TAB and Talk group
Veterans from all branches of the armed forces, key workers, and their families are being invited to come and enjoy a stroll through the scenic paths of Telford Town Park and Dothill Park. Come and surrounded yourself with serene and tranquil landscapes, while being part of a group that can provide mutual assistance and support with information about support services. There are two walks to join:
Dothill Park Trail: From Morrisons Daily, Dothill. 1 Roden Close, Wellington, Telford, FT1 3LN. Every Monday from 18:00 – 19:00.
Telford Town Park Trail: From Veteran’s trail, Telford Town Park. Every Thursday from 18:00 – 19:00.
For further details email stuart.cook@allsportscoaching.co.uk
Wild families with the wildlife trust
Children and families are being invited to join the Shropshire Wildlife Trust during the summer holidays for a series of events to explore nature and be active. Booking not required. Rain or shine the Shropshire Wildlife Trust will be there. Bring a picnic and enjoy the natural beauty of our green spaces.
Where: several across the borough
When: 15 dates over the summer holidays starting on July 31
Download the flyer for dates and locations of each event.
Download the Green Spaces Are Go promotional flyer
Please feel free to download the following flyer to use to promote this campaign.