Nature Near London: The Hidden Gems in Collins Nature Library

London, the bustling metropolis with its iconic landmarks, world-class museums, and vibrant culture, might not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking about immersing yourself in nature. However, hidden amidst the city's concrete jungle lies a treasure trove of natural wonders waiting to be explored. With the help of the Collins Nature Library, nature enthusiasts can uncover the breathtaking beauty of the countryside within reach of the capital.

Discovering the Collins Nature Library

The Collins Nature Library is a remarkable collection of books devoted to showcasing Britain's rich natural heritage. Within its pages lie detailed accounts of the diverse flora and fauna found in various corners of the country. These books provide an invaluable resource for nature lovers, helping them navigate the wild landscapes and discover hidden gems just a stone's throw away from the urban sprawl.

One such gem is the idyllic Epping Forest. Just twelve miles northeast of Central London, this ancient woodland stretches over 6,000 acres, offering a peaceful retreat for city dwellers seeking solace in nature. The Collins Nature Library's guide to Epping Forest provides all the necessary information to embark on a journey of exploration, from the best walking trails to the mesmerizing array of plant and animal species that call this forest home.

Nature Near London (Collins Nature Library)

by Richard Jefferies(Kindle Edition)

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	540 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	241 pages
Hardcover	:	106 pages
Item Weight	:	11 ounces
Dimensions	:	5.98 x 0.31 x 9.02 inches

FREE

The Enchanting Chiltern Hills

Another remarkable natural landscape within reach of the capital is the Chiltern Hills. Offering unrivaled panoramic views, charming villages, and a tapestry of woodlands and chalk hills, this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is a haven for hikers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those in search of tranquility. The Collins Nature Library's guide to the Chiltern Hills unlocks the secrets of this breathtaking region, providing detailed information on the diverse array of plants and animals that thrive in these picturesque surroundings.

The Wild Waterways of the Broads

For those longing for a taste of water-based adventure, the Broads National Park is an extraordinary destination. Just a two-hour train journey from London, this beautiful network of lakes and rivers offers a unique opportunity to explore a rich tapestry of wetland habitats. The Collins Nature Library's guide to the Broads takes readers on a picturesque journey through this exceptional area, uncovering the abundant birdlife, lush fenland flora, and mystical waterways that make this place truly special.

Immersing in Isle of Wight's Natural Beauty

If you're in the mood for a mini-adventure away from the city, the Isle of Wight provides the perfect escape. With its stunning cliffs, diverse wildlife, and charming seaside towns, this small island off the south coast of England is a nature lover's paradise. The Collins Nature Library's guide to the Isle of Wight offers insight into the island's rich biodiversity, from the famous red squirrels and rare orchids to the dramatic landscapes that inspired renowned figures such as Alfred Lord Tennyson.

Connecting with Nature Near London

London might be an urban jungle, but that doesn't mean nature is out of reach. By delving into the Collins Nature Library and using it as a guide, anyone can discover the hidden wonders that lie on the capital's doorstep. From enchanting woodlands to picturesque hills, there is a wealth of opportunities for those seeking solace and inspiration in the natural world.

So, whether you are a Londoner looking for a weekend escape or a visitor yearning to explore beyond the city's landmarks, don't overlook the remarkable nature near London. The Collins Nature Library is here to help you unlock the secrets of these hidden gems, allowing you to immerse yourself in the beauty and tranquility of Britain's natural landscapes.

Nature Near London (Collins Nature Library)

by Richard Jefferies(Kindle Edition)

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	540 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	241 pages
Hardcover	:	106 pages
Item Weight	:	11 ounces
Dimensions	:	5.98 x 0.31 x 9.02 inches

FREE

The Collins Nature Library is a new series of classic British nature writing – reissues of long-lost seminal works. The titles have been chosen by one of Britain’s best known and highly acclaimed nature writers, Robert Macfarlane, who has also written new s that put these classics into a modern context.

Nature Near London is a collection of observational pieces from locations near London at the end of the 19th Century. The depth of knowledge and of familiarity with particular places and particular species gives the impression that each small piece is the product of many years of observation.

His style of observation is a work in miniature – cataloguing the most minute details; the dancing of a flower in the wind or the darting of a cautious trout. The chapters centre on a special place, a certain species, geographical feature or habitat – everything from orchards and copses to rivers and streams.

Jefferies always explains the typical behaviour of whatever he is describing, and often contrasts what he sees with what one would expect to see in another part of the country, or in a different season. His knowledge of flowers is wide-ranging, and his ability to describe one particular patch of a field in such a specific way brings tremendous variety to the chapters that make up the book.

The final chapters are a departure – both from the character of the rest of the book, and from London itself, as Jefferies boards the train to Brighton. Suddenly he is describing people and their relationship to nature, as much as nature itself. The scope widens, less a work in miniature, more surging towards a triumphant end as Jefferies becomes ever more philosophical.

100 years on, the book becomes even more relevant than when it was published – as a reminder of the dangers of unrelenting urbanisation, but also the context of the trend that aims to recreate nature where we need it most – around our cities. Nature near London is a portrait of what we’ve lost, and a reminder of nature’s positive and calming influence. Going along with Jefferies is like taking an afternoon stroll out of the city, without having to leave your armchair.