A new programme of creative workshops and wellbeing activities is launching this summer at Craig Gwladus Country Park in the Neath Valley, aimed at helping people connect with nature, learn new skills, and support their mental health.
The Woodland Wellness initiative is the first of its kind at Craig Gwladus and has been made possible thanks to funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund. Open to adults of all experience levels, the programme features a variety of creative and therapeutic sessions set in the peaceful woodland setting of the park.
Running throughout the summer and early autumn, activities include creative writing, willow weaving, meditation, natural ink making, and charcoal drawing. All sessions are designed to help participants slow down, engage their senses, and enjoy the mental health benefits of spending time outdoors.
Programme schedule:
Weave Your Own Willow Basket
Monday 23 June | 6:30pm – 9:00pm
Monday 30 June | 6:30pm – 9:00pm
Monday 7 July | 6:30pm – 9:00pm
Tales from the Trails: A Creative Writing Workshop
Monday 23 June | 6:30pm – 8:30pm
Monday 30 June | 6:30pm – 8:30pm
Monday 7 July | 6:30pm – 8:30pm
Meditation
Saturday 5 July | 8am – 9am
Saturday 12 July | 8am – 9am
Saturday 19 July | 8am – 9am
Wild Plant Papermaking
Monday 14 July | 6:30pm – 8:30pm
Monday 21 June | 6:30pm – 8:30pm
Slow & Flow
Saturday 26 July | 9:30am – 11am
Saturday 2 August | 9:30pm – 11am
Words in the Woods
Monday 15 September | 6:30pm – 8:30pm
Monday 22 September | 6:30pm – 8:30pm
Monday 29 September | 6:30pm – 8:30pm
Natural Ink Making
Monday 28 July | 6:30pm – 9pm
Charcoal Drawing
Tuesday 2 September | 2pm – 4pm
Councillor Cen Phillips, Neath Port Talbot Council’s Cabinet Member for Nature, Tourism & Wellbeing, said: “Craig Gwladus Country Park is one of Neath Port Talbot’s hidden gems, and this new Woodland Wellness programme is a fantastic opportunity for people to enjoy its peaceful surroundings while taking part in inspiring activities.
“We know how valuable time in nature can be for both physical and mental health, and I’d encourage residents to make the most of what’s on offer this summer.”
Sessions range from £8 to £35, with discounted rates available for those booking multiple workshops. While the programme is primarily aimed at adults (18+), young people aged 16-18 can attend with an adult or with parental permission.
To view the full schedule and book a session, visit: https://mailchi.mp/npt/woodland-wellness
