Eden Project Launches Series of Free Social Activities to Connect People Of All Ages

The Eden Project has launched an exciting series of group activities set to start this month, with a focus on bringing people of all ages closer to nature. This initiative, part of the wider “Nature Connections” program, aims to enhance health and well-being through engaging with the natural environment.

Since 2005, the Eden Project has been a hub for nature-based activities, ranging from health walks to workshops and courses, often accessed through social prescribing, professional, and self-referral systems. The latest offerings for 2024 include “Creating Connections,” a specialised program for individuals under 25 years of age. This includes a nature-based photography course starting on January 27, designed to teach basic techniques such as composition and lighting using camera phones, with Eden’s flora and landscapes as the primary subjects.

The initiative also introduces “Wonder Workshops” beginning on January 26. These 90-minute sessions offer adults an opportunity to learn about nature and engage in creative activities while socialising. Each workshop focuses on a different plant, exploring its significance in daily life.

For families with young children, Eden continues to offer popular activities designed to deepen young ones’ understanding of nature. “Music in the Med” and “Yoga Buds” are set to recommence from January 25 and 26, respectively. Additionally, “Little Eden” a weekly club located in Eden’s wild perimeters, will restart from February 20.

Sam Alford, Eden’s Head of Nature Connections, expressed enthusiasm about the new year’s activities, highlighting the physical and mental wellbeing benefits of interacting with green spaces, especially during winter months. Eden’s diverse environments, including the Biomes, Outdoor Gardens, and vast Outer Estate, provide a unique setting for these varied activities.

Eden has been delivering activities to support the health of local community members since 2005, with a weekly walk for COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) patients. Collaboration with local GPs and health practitioners has been a key aspect since 2016. The Nature Connections scheme also includes a weekly walking group and horticultural therapy programs, with new introductory courses starting in February.

Nature Connections is supported by the Pears Foundation, Cornwall Council, The Royal Cornwall Hospital Charity and NHS Charities Together. The Creating Connections photography course is funded by the Cornwall Community Fund. The Wonder Workshops have been made possible thanks to the Albert Van den Bergh Charitable Trust.

Many of the Nature Connections activities are free to attend, such as those that are available through social prescribing or other referral routes. Pre-booking or pre-arrangement is essential. 

In addition to Nature Connections, the Eden Project hosts other health and well-being events, including weekly park runs, the annual Eden Project Marathon and Half Marathon, and the Reclaim Weekend, focusing on mental and planetary well-being.

For more information, interested individuals can visit www.edenproject.com.