Swindon & Wiltshire News
Festival encourages residents to explore community spaces
Organisers of a festival of the outdoors are encouraging residents to explore Salisbury’s parks, rivers, nature reserves and community spaces as part of a unique ten-day celebration of wellbeing, nature and community connection.
Running from Saturday 27 June to Sunday 5 July, Breathing Spaces brings together more than 30 free and low-cost activities designed to help people enjoy the outdoors, improve their wellbeing and discover new opportunities to connect with others.
The opening day features events as diverse as wild swimming, dog walking as well as the much anticipated Wild and Green Family Festival at the River Bourne Community Farm in Laverstock.
This free family event running from 10am to 2pm will feature river-themed activities, botanic art, birds of prey, volunteering opportunities, environmental organisations and hands-on activities for children and adults alike.
The festival is expected to be attended by representatives from across Wiltshire’s voluntary, community and public sectors.
Over the following ten days, participants can enjoy guided nature walks, yoga in the park, wildlife talks, gardening and conservation activities, paddle sport taster sessions, fishing experiences, cycling events, wellbeing walks and opportunities to learn more about Salisbury’s rich natural environment.
Breathing Spaces has been created by Safer and Supportive Salisbury (SaSS), a partnership dedicated to improving wellbeing, reducing isolation and strengthening community connections across the city.
Anne Trevett BEM, chair of Safer and Supportive Salisbury, said: “Since announcing Breathing Spaces, we’ve been delighted by the positive response from local organisations and residents. This programme showcases the incredible green and blue spaces we have in and around Salisbury and the many friendly groups that help people enjoy them.
“We hope people will use Breathing Spaces as an opportunity to try something new, meet new people and discover just how beneficial spending time outdoors can be for both physical and mental wellbeing.”
Many events are free to attend, although some require advance booking. Printed programmes are available across Salisbury, while an online programme and interactive map make it easy to find activities taking place throughout the city and surrounding villages.
