Summer is one of my favourite times of year in Leicestershire. The longer days and warmer weather give us a chance to slow down, spend time outdoors and appreciate what is around us.
As a Public Health Director, I'm always looking at simple things we can do to support our wellbeing. One of the Five Ways to Wellbeing is Take Notice. We can all take notice by paying attention to the world around us, being present in the moment and appreciating the people, places and nature that we pass by often without a second thought.
The good news is that you don't need an expensive holiday or a packed itinerary to do this. Some of the best experiences are right here on our doorstep.
This summer, I'd encourage you to discover some of Leicestershire's hidden gems and explore places you may never have visited before. Across the county we are fortunate to have beautiful country parks, woodlands, waterways, libraries, heritage sites and walking routes that offer opportunities to reconnect with nature and improve our wellbeing.
Leicestershire County Council maintains a range of country parks and outdoor spaces, all offering something different to explore. Whether it's a walk through the woodland and heathland at Beacon Hill, spotting wildlife at Watermead Country Park, exploring the historic waterways of Foxton Locks, or enjoying the wide-open landscapes around Bosworth Battlefield Country Park, taking time to notice your surroundings can help you feel calmer, more connected and more grounded. With the hot weather we’ve been having you might want to enjoy a walk earlier or later than usual – we’re extending the hours at Watermead – to 6am to 9pm – while this very warm period lasts.
For those looking to discover somewhere a little less well known, Bagworth Heath is one of Leicestershire's hidden wildlife gems. Visitors can join County Dragonfly Recorder Ian Merrill on a guided walk around the site's ponds to spot a variety of dragonflies and damselflies, including the rare White-Legged Damselfly.
Summer is also one of the best times to appreciate Leicestershire's wildlife. Butterflies, bees, dragonflies and birds are often easier to spot, while wildflowers provide vital food sources for pollinators. I find that simply stopping for a few moments to watch and spot nature can be a welcome break from everyday life. We can all play a part in protecting these special places too. Learning how to identify and report invasive non-native species helps protect local habitats and wildlife. Small actions from residents can make a real difference to preserving the natural environment for future generations.
There are plenty of ways to take notice indoors too. Our libraries provide welcoming community spaces where you can discover a new book, learn a new skill, join an activity or simply enjoy some quiet time. Reading has well-established benefits for wellbeing, and libraries offer free opportunities for people of all ages to stay connected and engaged. The annual Summer Reading Challenge is a great way for children and families to enjoy reading together during the holidays.
Taking notice doesn't have to mean setting aside large amounts of time. It could be discovering a footpath you've never followed before, watching butterflies, noticing the landscape or taking a few moments to appreciate Leicstershire.
When we pay closer attention to the world around us, we often feel more connected to nature, our communities and to our own wellbeing.
Some of the best summer experiences really are right here on our doorstep. I hope you take the opportunity this summer to discover somewhere new, connect with nature and appreciate the places that make Leicestershire such a special place to live, work and visit.
For inspiration this summer, visit:
- Country parks and countryside sites
- Walking routes and public rights of way
- Cycling and active travel information
- Libraries
- Museums and heritage sites
- Woodlands and nature spaces in Leicestershire
Wherever you choose to explore this summer, take a moment to look up, look around and discover something new in Leicestershire. You never know what hidden gem you might find.
For more ideas and resources to help you Take Notice and boost your wellbeing, visit the Start A Conversation website.