We invite you to set goals with us this festive period
A new survey of 2,000 adults, conducted by WWT, the charity for wetlands and wildlife, shows that 41% of us choose New Year’s Day as our favourite day to get out for some fresh air over the festive period, with New Year’s Eve (40%) also a popular choice.
It also revealed that 52% of people in the North East viewed their festive walk as the ideal opportunity to make plans for the year ahead.
Over 60% of those surveyed in the North East of England are planning to do their walk with a partner or spouse, with 20% preferring a solo stroll to enjoy some much needed ‘me-time’ and think about their 2025 goals.
A walk near water - whether that be a lake, pond or coastal habitat - is preferred by a quarter of people surveyed, and this is where WWT Washington Wetland Centre can help!
The nature reserve – which is based on the banks of the River Wear - boasts 100 acres of breathtaking wetlands, with wide open spaces to explore, and inspiring wildlife to uncover. It’s also open 363 days of the year, closing only on 25 and 26 December, making it a great choice for a festive walk surrounded by nature.
In the North East, more than 60% of people plan to set an intention for 2025 with the aim of improving their health and wellbeing during the coming year. But when it comes to keeping those intentions, over 55% reckon they’ll need a way to record their progress to keep on track. Offering an idea for a way to do this, WWT is launching a new intentions logbook.
WWT’s intentions logbook is packed with engaging ideas for mood-boosting activities that can be enjoyed in and around wetlands by everyone.
Gill Pipes, Centre Manager at Washington Wetland Centre, said:
“We know that for many of us in the local area, going for a walk and enjoying nature is a big part of our New Year’s celebrations.
“It’s the perfect time to reconnect with our nearest and dearest, while offering a breathing space between one year and the next. We start thinking about our plans for the future and set our intentions for the year ahead.
“At WWT Washington, we know that being in nature is good for you. Just 10 minutes a day in wetlands can boost your mood, so getting outside is a great way to stay healthy and positive.
“We really appreciate that for some people, a festive walk is a chance to really enjoy some alone time in nature in a safe space, but on New Year’s Day we’re inviting all visitors to join us for a guided walk around our wonderful wetlands - we really won’t mind if you spend some time with us and then go and have your own wander!
“All visitors can also pick up a free copy of our intentions logbook here on site from Friday 27 December until Friday 31 January – whether you walk with us, alone or with others.”
If you’re unsure about what or how to set intentions for the new year, this WWT intentions logbook gives great nature-based ideas like walking in nature, getting outdoors with friends and family, embracing the seasons and practising mindfulness.
Gill continued,
“Connection with nature has been shown to increase happiness, life satisfaction, decrease stress and anxiety and improve physical health. There’s literally no better way to put your best foot forward.”
The One Poll survey also identified that 50% of people in the North East consider the safety of the environment they’re walking in during winter.
WWT wetland centres are designed to give an unforgettable experience - allowing visitors to get up close to nature while being safe is paramount. Reserve wardens and friendly staff are always on hand and accessible walkways provide accessibility to all.
Ready to set your nature intentions?
If you've been inspired to explore Washington Wetland Centre and set your goals for 2025, find out more and plan your visit online.
Plan your visit
