Moved by Nature Calendar 2026

8th January 2026

Looking for inspiration to have a happier and healthier 2026? The Moved by Nature calendar invites you to explore and enjoy the incredible outdoor spaces on your doorstep—while helping to protect them for future generations.

Every month, you’ll find ideas for activities that encourage you to experience nature responsibly and sustainably. These suggestions highlight well-managed, biodiversity-rich areas that are accessible to everyone.

Whether it’s listening to birdsong on a spring morning or crunching through autumn leaves, nature has a unique ability to lift our spirits. Research increasingly supports what we’ve always known: spending time in nature is a powerful way to enhance health, happiness, and overall wellbeing.

By choosing sustainable travel options, respecting wildlife, and supporting local communities, you can make a positive impact while enjoying the beauty around you. Together, we can ensure these landscapes remain vibrant and welcoming for generations to come.

How the calendar works

Each month of this interactive calendar contains information on things to do, places to explore, ideas for slowing things down and lots of links to other useful online content. The calendar focuses on the Ards and North Down area, but a few activities and places to explore from outside the boundary have been included too.

View the 2026 Calendar

The calendar has been produced by the Ards and North Down Borough Council Community Planning Partnership, working with National Trust, Sport NI, Strangford Lough and Lecale Partnership and alongside Europarc, Leave No Trace, The WiSE Scheme, The Green Blue, The Right Side of Outside and Sustainable NI, who all have ways of helping us learn how to be better stewards of what is around us.

It is an initiative of the Big Plan for Ards and North Down. Read more about The Big Plan on the Ards and North Down Borough Council website.