A season of growth and connection at Astley Ainslie – Spring Round Up

By Aisling Murphy, Nature Rehabilitation Ranger

There’s a real sense of energy at Astley Ainslie this season, as staff, patients and volunteers come together to make the most of the hospital’s beautiful outdoor spaces. From wildlife-filled meadows to hands-on activities, nature is playing an increasingly important role in wellbeing and recovery.

Growing something special

With support from our Nature Ranger, Aisling, staff and patients are continuing to explore new ways to connect with nature – from learning about everyday plants to simply spending more time outdoors.

What’s clear is that the surrounding areas are becoming more than just gardens. They’re places for reflection, learning, creativity and connection – and they’re making a real difference to life at Astley Ainslie.

Time outdoors, together

Our staff sessions have been a great success, with people taking time out to enjoy guided nature walks, herbal tea workshops and mindfulness in nature.

These simple moments are making a difference, as one staff member shared:

Since coming to the activities I have started to notice so much more while I’m out walking now.”

Patients taking part in the LEAP programme are also finding real value in spending time outdoors and learning more about the natural world around them.

This has helped my recovery a lot.”

With another also reflecting on the experience:

It reminded me how important it is to make time to connect with the outdoors… we forget how restoring nature can be.”

A haven for wildlife

Across the site, the wildflower meadows are nearing full bloom – and they’re already alive with colour and movement.

Bees, butterflies, moths, ladybirds and damselflies are making the most of the flowers, while birds regularly swoop in to forage. Seasonal visitors have also returned, including swallows, swifts and warblers, adding to the sense that summer has truly arrived.

It’s a space that continues to draw people in, with many stopping to enjoy the view and take a moment to pause.

Looking ahead

There’s plenty still to come over the summer and into autumn. Staff can look forward to:

Sessions exploring pollinators and wildflower meadows
Creative land art activities
Gardening sessions and wildlife walks

And later in the year, two much-loved events return:

An evening with a fungi expert (21 August) — a chance to explore the fascinating world of fungi
The Scything Festival (September, date TBC), returning bigger than ever across two days after its popularity last year

A shared effort

Behind the scenes, so much of this work is made possible by dedicated volunteers who show up in all weathers to care for the site.

From clearing and cutting back to ongoing maintenance, their efforts – including removing 10 barrow-loads of weeds in just two sessions – are helping these spaces thrive.

We’re also grateful to Robertson for their generous donation of benches, now offering comfortable spots for staff and patients to sit, rest and enjoy the surroundings.

All of this and much more is detailed on the Astley Ainslie page on our Green Health website. And for bespoke support contact Aisling directly by emailing [email protected]