Nature Prescriptions

What is an RSPB Nature Prescription?

A growing body of evidence indicates that individuals with a greater connection to nature, experience improved mental wellbeing, greater vitality and happiness, and are more satisfied with life. Research also shows that increasing your connection with nature can positively impact a range of conditions, including stress, anxiety and depression.

An RSPB Nature Prescription is a free to use, non-medical approach based on accessible, self-led activities that people can do from home, on their own or with others; and that aim to create lasting connections with nature that inspire a desire to nurture and protect it. Nature Prescriptions can be done in a person’s own time, are generally free and do not require travel.

Project leads from the RSPB and the Peak District National Park Authority, with support from local GP Tom Miller, The Bureau in Glossop and the High Peak CVS worked to pilot the first ever Nature Prescription in England, which launched in the High Peak in January 2023, followed by the Derbyshire Dales in August 2023, in collaboration with Derbyshire Dales CVS.

Following feedback from the evaluation of these pilots, a Peak District wide Nature Prescription has now been created, launched in June 2025.

How to get a Nature Prescription?

An RSPB Nature Prescription can be offered by a trained healthcare professional and includes a booklet of activities. From listening to the sounds of nature from your window to looking  for patterns in a frozen puddle, the activities aim to highlight a wide range of ways to access the  health benefits that connecting with nature can deliver.

It is important to highlight that an RSPB Nature Prescription consists of a guided conversation, supported by the booklet. It would have considerably reduced value and impact as a self-prescription or as a simple download. An evaluation of Nature Prescriptions was conducted in a pilot study in Edinburgh.

If you live in or near the Peak District and you think you would benefit from a Nature Prescription, ask your Healthcare Professional today. If you are a Healthcare Professional and would like to access copies of the Peak District Nature Prescription, please email: customer.service@peakdistrict.gov.uk.

Here is an example from the booklet...