Explore a local nature reserve.

“Whatever the reserve, my top tip is to ensure that you’re the first person to arrive (whether that be precisely at opening time or just before dawn). You’ll then be the first person to encounter the reserve’s wildlife before the crowds scare things away. I strictly employ this tactic at the WWT London Wetland Centre and, by walking quietly, I am often rewarded by views of water voles alongside empty paths that would later be heaving with visitors.”

“As soon as I got into the reserve and was walking up the steps, I could see how spring had changed things in the few weeks since I was last here, with cow parsley coming out, and annual plants everywhere. All the leaves were that perfect spring acid green, shining in the sun.”