The holiday period can be hectic, but taking just a few minutes each day to slow down and notice the natural world is a proven way to boost your mood, reduce stress, and feel more connected to your local environment. It's about finding little moments of wildness, whether you're in your garden, local park or exploring one of our stunning nature reserves.

We’ve put together a Wiltshire-inspired calendar of fun, simple activities to guide you through your 12 Days Wild!

Festive Walk and Three Species Challenge

December 25 

There's nothing more refreshing than a post-lunch ramble through the landscape. Why not head to a local beauty spot like Coombe Bissett Down or Morgan's Hill and challenge your family to spot three different types of species - look low for winter moss and fungi, or up into the sky for birds.

Take Advantage of Longer Nights and Go Stargazing! 

December 26 

Wiltshire is home to the stunning Cranborne Chase Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, which is a recognised Dark Sky Reserve! Why not head out on a stargazing walk, look up, spot constellations and share your star snaps. Always take extra care in the dark and stick to well-marked routes. Your local park or back garden are also great options. 

Don't forget the moon! It should be a nice nearly half moon in the sky; why not use a telescope and see if you can spot the craters and lakes on its surface. 

Three Interesting Nature Facts

December 27 

Set your family a quick quiz... What's the biggest tree you can find on Salisbury Plain? What's the county flower of Wiltshire? Or why not challenge your loved ones to learn three facts about nature from the books you have in the house - no screens allowed! The first one to discover three wins. Time to crack out those old editions of the Wiltshire Wildlife Magazine. 

Go on a Tree Count

December 28

How many different types of trees can you count on a walk? We recommend our beautiful ancient woodland sites such as Ravensroost, Clouts Wood or Blackmoor Copse. Look out for Oak, Ash, and Holly, along with lots of other species.

Write a Winter Themed Story or Poem

December 29

Let Wiltshire's beautiful landscapes inspire you! Write a poem about our chalk streams or a story about a resident Barn Owl at Langford Lakes. Then share them with us - we'd love to hear from you!

Make a New Year's Resolution for Nature

December 30

How will you help nature and wildlife in 2026? Could you commit to cutting down on single-use plastics by using refills; will you help tackle light pollution by raising awareness; or will you plant to attract pollinators to your garden. You can find some inspiration on our actions for nature page here. 

Look for Signs of Wildlife in the Frost or Mud

December 31

Before the year ends, take a moment to be a detective! Look for tiny paw prints of a Fox, the triple-toed tracks of a Pheasant, or the distinctive trail of a Badger in soft ground or morning frost in your garden or your local park.

Make your first picture of the year about nature!

January 1

Happy New Year! Capture a moment of natural beauty - a glorious sunrise over the Downs, the delicate detail of a dew-covered leaf, or a dusting of frost on the grass in your local Wiltshire park. Start your year's photography journey with a celebration of nature and the great outdoors.

Start a Natural Treasures Collection

January 2

Look for natural treasures on the ground: fallen pinecones, smooth pebbles, or fascinating pieces of discarded bark. (Remember to only collect from the ground, ensuring you leave no trace in protected wildlife areas!) Why not use your collection to make a beautiful natural mandala. 

Leave Presents for Nature

January 3

Show your support for local wildlife. Keep bird feeders well-stocked, build a small, safe brush-pile to help hedgehogs hibernate, and remember to leave out a shallow dish of fresh water for thirsty birds.

Winter Nature Watch

January 4

Head out to a local Wiltshire Wildlife Trust reserve, such as Lower Moor Farm, Langford Lakes or Blakehill Farm, or explore your nearest park. How many common winter birds, tracks, or other signs of life can you spot and tick off your list? Take a look at some of the Spotter Sheets from The Wildlife Trust!

End Your Wild Run by Tuning In

January 5 

Learn how to identify common bird calls like a professional! Listen out for the lively, rippling song of the Robin (a constant winter vocalist!) or the distinctive, repeated 'teacher, teacher' call of the Great Tit, two of the most familiar garden birds across Wiltshire.

The festive break is the perfect time to reset and remember the simple joy of being outdoors. Let’s make time for nature this New Year and celebrate the wonderful wildlife of Wiltshire!

Share your adventures using the hashtag #12DaysWild and don't forget to tag @WiltsWild.