Welcome to Laurel’s Wood CIC

Laurel’s Wood is a unique woodland space in Formby, Merseyside, dedicated to outdoor education, conservation, and community engagement. Nestled in nature, we offer immersive experiences, including forest school sessions, bushcraft, corporate retreats, and bespoke events.

We aim to reconnect people with the outdoors, promoting wellbeing, biodiversity, and environmental sustainability. We welcome you to join us in discovering, learning, and creating lasting memories in our special woodland haven.

Supporting Community Nature Engagement

At the heart of Laurel’s Wood CIC is our commitment to fostering community connections through nature. Our mission is to create a space where everyone can come together and experience the physical and mental wellbeing benefits of being immersed in the natural world.

Spending time outdoors has proven positive effects on both health and happiness, with Natural England’s People and Nature Survey (Dec 2023) showing that over 80% of adults in England feel happier in nature.

Young boy collecting sticks in Laurel's Wood

Removing Barriers

Despite these benefits, access to the outdoors is not always easy or equal. Barriers like poor public transport, financial struggles, and limited urban green spaces mean many people, particularly those on low incomes, ethnic minority groups, the elderly, and those with poor health, are less likely to visit natural spaces. This deepens health inequalities and reduces opportunities for nature engagement.

Group of children around a campfire at Laurel's Wood

Inclusive Woodland

At Laurel’s Wood, we are dedicated to breaking down these barriers. We aim to make our woodland space accessible to everyone and offer transformative outdoor experiences to those who might not typically have access. From bespoke outdoor learning sessions for schools to charity support and community-led initiatives, we strive to provide immersive, engaging, and inclusive woodland activities that connect people to the natural world and enhance their wellbeing.

Quotes from Teachers, Carers and Charity Staff

“One child who is looked after — I was quite emotional watching him during the day as he turned into this brave, confident leader. On a normal school day, he cannot listen and forgets our rules but when on our trip to Laurel’s Wood he was a different person. He transformed into a true role model helping his friends and teachers enjoy the activities. He became a leader, an explorer.”
“All children I saw a change the ones who aren't confident in school dared to try new things and pushed out of their comfort zone. In addition, when coming back to the class the next day the children were all calm and amazed from the day and carried on the change of behaviour to within the classroom.”
“For our children, I felt like these activities were activities that they would have never had the chance to experience before and the confidence and joy they got from this will stay with them for a long time.”
“It was a great chill time for the children to explore the forest and play with the amazing space but also push their boundaries giving independence and allowing them to be creative explorers.”
“The children were so calm all day. They listened to instructions from the team, they kept themselves safe, they worked together, they explored, they showed independence, they were engaged, they gave everything a go, they learnt new skills and they had fun while doing it all.”
“City children change when brought into new, exciting venues like this one. They thrive! They need this more often. In fact, I would say it should be termly!”
“They loved it they all wanted to go back the next day, we have changed our outdoor classroom since going and a child has even said "It’s like we are back in the woods, it’s all magical.”
“The whole day all staff couldn't believe how amazing and were blown away by the woods and the team. Will definitely be back again! Thank you so much for giving this opportunity to our children who will never experience anything like this, and inspiring us within our own outdoor area.”
“I cannot say how brilliant our day was and the change in the children's behaviour in the outdoor environment everyone pushed their comfort zones, became leaders and fully embraced the day.”

What We Offer

School Visits

We provide unique outdoor learning experiences for schools curated by seasoned outdoor education specialists.

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Business Opportunities

We offer flexible licences, fair hire costs, and support to help you operate successfully in a natural environment.

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Corporate Away Days

We offer unique, nature-focused experiences to provide a break from the fast-paced pressures of the corporate world.

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Charity & Community Groups

We help communities to access the natural environment and reap the wellness benefits of spending time outdoors.

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Social Prescribing

We connect individuals in the local community with nature-based activities that promote health and wellbeing.

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Kid's Birthday Parties

Celebrate your child’s special day with an exclusive magical woodland adventure at Laurel’s Wood.

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Private Hire

Laurel’s Wood provides the perfect backdrop for memorable, nature-based experiences for your next event.

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Volunteering

We offer corporate volunteer days, visits from schools, charities, and uniformed organisations.

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Welcome to Laurel’s Wood CIC

Supporting Community Nature Engagement

Removing Barriers

Inclusive Woodland

“For our children, I felt like these activities were activities that they would have never had the chance to experience before and the confidence and joy they got from this will stay with them for a long time.”

“It was a great chill time for the children to explore the forest and play with the amazing space but also push their boundaries giving independence and allowing them to be creative explorers.”

“The children were so calm all day. They listened to instructions from the team, they kept themselves safe, they worked together, they explored, they showed independence, they were engaged, they gave everything a go, they learnt new skills and they had fun while doing it all.”

“City children change when brought into new, exciting venues like this one. They thrive! They need this more often. In fact, I would say it should be termly!”

“They loved it they all wanted to go back the next day, we have changed our outdoor classroom since going and a child has even said "It’s like we are back in the woods, it’s all magical.”

“The whole day all staff couldn't believe how amazing and were blown away by the woods and the team. Will definitely be back again! Thank you so much for giving this opportunity to our children who will never experience anything like this, and inspiring us within our own outdoor area.”

“I cannot say how brilliant our day was and the change in the children's behaviour in the outdoor environment everyone pushed their comfort zones, became leaders and fully embraced the day.”

School Visits

Business Opportunities

Corporate Away Days

Charity & Community Groups

Social Prescribing

Kid's Birthday Parties

Private Hire

Volunteering

Private Hire

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Private Hire ✽ Enquire Now ✽

Laurel’s Wood