The National Trust looks after over 8000 acres of countryside in North Devon for people and nature. We are working to make it easier for everyone to access nature, and one way to help achieve that is making sure people have access to footwear and clothing that gives them the confidence to get out in nature all year round.

On Thursday 4 April 2024, when the weather is quite likely to be cold, grey and wet, two of the team at North Devon National Trust will be leading a small group of staff on a 10 mile cross-country walk through woodlands, muddy footpaths, country lanes, farmland and through rough and hilly terrain from Arlington Court to the Heddon Valley. They are doing this to highlight the importance of good gear and raise funds to buy a ‘lending library’ of outdoor clothing and footwear for visitors so that clothing is never a barrier to enjoying nature. Introducing from right to left:

Amy U’Ren, Volunteering & Community Officer for West Exmoor

“I’ve lived all my life in rural Devon, including a muddy farm childhood, and I would love as many children to get the chance to experience an outdoor childhood as possible. I love long country walks, but hate walking in the rain so already mentally bracing myself for this almost inevitable part of the walk! In Devon we say, if you can’t see the moors it’s raining, and if you can see them then it’s about to rain – so most walks need a raincoat and dry shoes, whatever the season.”

Kate Tregellas, Volunteering & Community Officer for Arlington Court

“I’m very grateful for growing up in the wild edges of the North Devon countryside. I believe passionately in the benefits of being outdoors for mental health and love getting out on long walks with my energetic dog whatever the weather, but knowing that I have the right kit to stay safe, warm and dry is a must!”

If you would like to support our efforts, please do donate, every penny counts.

Here's a little more about the outdoor clothing bank/’lending library’ that we’re fundraising to purchase:

Getting out in nature, whether that’s for a long hike with the dog or a picnic in your local park, has been proven to have enormous benefits to mental and physical health. We’re working to make the countryside more accessible to everyone, particularly those who need it most. In the summer, when paths are dry and the skies are (hopefully) blue, it’s easier to get out and about, but the beauties of a colourful autumn stroll or a wild walk along the coast in winter are more difficult to access if you don’t have a pair of outdoor shoes or a good waterproof coat to protect you from the elements. Access is partly about confidence and enjoyment, and if borrowing wellies for your fast-growing children means their feet stay dry on a winter walk, they’re more likely to develop a love of nature and the countryside year-round.

We are raising money to buy outdoor clothing and footwear to create a ‘lending library’ that members of the public and groups can use for free. Money will also be needed to maintain the clothing/footwear, and replace anything that is lost or damaged.

There are a few ways that supporters can help:

• Donating to this Just Giving page

• Bringing any good quality, lightly-used outdoor clothing and footwear donations to the Heddon Valley Ranger office/Welcome Hub or Arlington Court Visitor Reception. We are particularly looking for walking boots (all ages), children’s wellies, and waterproof or rainproof coats in good condition.

• Thinking of North Devon National Trust for any fund-raising activities: coffee mornings, sponsored walks etc.