sensory walks: Explore Nature's Textures

What does a tree feel like when you really stop to notice it?

Our first sensory walk is all about texture: the cracked patterns of bark, soft moss under your fingertips, smooth stones, dry leaves, tangled roots, rough fences, and hidden surfaces we normally walk past without seeing.

Together, we’ll wander slowly through the landscape, using touch and close observation to reconnect with the natural world and spark creativity in simple, playful ways.

🍃 During the walk we’ll:

• Explore different textures in trees, plants, stones, and surfaces
• Learn simple ways to identify local plants and trees
• Slow down and notice small details in the environment
• Create unique textured creations and rubbings to take home

🌿 Nature learning
Local ecologist Jamie Crump will guide us through some of the plants and trees we encounter, sharing simple ways to recognise species and better understand the ecology around us.

A relaxed and welcoming session for anyone wanting to spend more time outdoors, reconnect with creativity, or simply notice the world a little differently.

✏️ Creative activity
Using paper and drawing materials, we’ll make texture prints and rubbings inspired by the shapes and patterns we find along the route. No art experience needed, this is about curiosity, experimentation, and enjoying the process.

What to bring: small notebook, pencil (coloured, or black graphite), any other art media if desired

Meet at: Jesmond Dene Cafe (Millfield House)

About the Sensory Walks series:

A relaxed series of nature walks creatively exploring our natural environment through the senses, slowing down, noticing more, and reconnecting with the natural world. These sessions are collaboratively organised by Girls Who Walk Newcastle and Common C Collective, inviting experts and guests to support each theme.

Each session includes:

• A guided walk, themed around a different sense, using touch, sound, sight, smell, and taste, to connect more deeply with both your surroundings and your own creativity
• Simple nature learning and observation
• A creative collective activity inspired by the surroundings and theme

These walks are open to everyone, no art or nature experience needed. Whether you’re feeling creatively stuck, curious about nature, or just want time outdoors with others, you’re very welcome.

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

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