Are you looking for a weekend escape that’s good for the soul and kind to the environment? From stunning gardens to scenic stream walks, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the great outdoors. Whether you love spotting wildlife, strolling through breathtaking landscapes, or gathering garden inspiration, we’ve got the perfect places for you to explore.
And the best part? You could win a yearlong Royal Horticultural Society (RHS)Membership or a gardening tool kit, or even a family ticket to Hertfordshire Zoo to keep the adventures going!
Discover the beauty of RHS Wisley
If you love gardens, RHS Wisley in Surrey is an absolute must-visit. Wisley is a garden with one of the world’s largest plant collections. It offers a mix of beautifully designed landscapes, rare plant collections, and water-saving gardening inspiration. Wander through the picturesque Rock Garden, explore the lush Glasshouse, or relax by the serene water features.
Why visit RHS Wisley?
- A paradise for plant lovers and nature enthusiasts
- Stunning wildflowers and sustainable water gardens
- Get information on drought resistant plants
- Endless inspiration for your own water-friendly garden
- See one of the world’s largest plant collections
RHS Members get unlimited access to Wisley and four other stunning RHS gardens.
Win a yearlong RHS Membership!
Love exploring the outdoors? Want unlimited access to breathtaking gardens, expert gardening advice, and exclusive member content? Take the My Water Footprint Challenge and you could win a yearlong RHS Membership!
What’s included?
- Unlimited entry to all five RHS Gardens for two members, a family guest, and up to four children
- Monthly inspiration from The Garden magazine (worth £59!)
- Unlimited, personalised RHS gardening advice
- Free entry to over 230 Partner Gardens across the UK Exclusive member content straight to your inbox
Scenic stream walks for a refreshing escape
For those who love a peaceful riverside stroll, these scenic stream walks are perfect for a weekend adventure. Enjoy the sights and sounds of flowing water while appreciating the beauty of nature. All while being mindful of where your water comes from and how we can all work together to protect these precious water sources.
River Lea walk, Hertfordshire
A relaxing riverside route that winds through historic villages and peaceful woodlands. Spot kingfishers, swans, and even the occasional otter along the way!
Highlights:
- Family-friendly paths
- Wildlife-rich waterways
- Lovely picnic spots by the river
Shepperton and Desborough Island
This riverside walk along the Thames Path offers beautiful views of the river and Desborough Island. The trail follows the riverbanks past tree-lined paths.The peaceful river scene, enhanced by the soft summer light or a crisp winter morning, makes this walk a true escape from everyday life. It’s a perfect walk for a gentle afternoon out.
Highlights:
- Walk around the tranquil meadows of Desborough Island
- Close to local town and cafes.
Meet the otters at Hertfordshire Zoo
For a nature-filled day with a bit of wild charm, Hertfordshire Zoo is a brilliant weekend destination. It’s home to a range of amazing animals, but the real stars of the show are the otters – playful, clever creatures that rely on clean rivers and streams. They're a great reminder of how important it is to protect our local water sources.
Learn more about otters and their watery world:
- Discover how otters use rivers as their natural habitat
- Join family-friendly talks and feeding sessions
- Understand the role clean water plays in wildlife conservation
- Take part in the My Water Footprint Challenge, and you could win free family entry to Hertfordshire Zoo – and meet the otters in person!
Get gardening over the weekend
If you'd rather spend your weekend closer to home, why not get out in the garden? Gardening is a fantastic way to connect with nature and boost your well-being. Plus, by using smart water-saving techniques, you can keep your garden thriving without wasting water!
Easy water-saving gardening tips:
- Collect rainwater in a water butt to use on your plants
- Use mulch to help soil retain moisture
- Water early in the morning or late in the evening to reduce evaporation
- Choose drought-resistant plants that require less watering
Want to start your own garden? Take the My Water Footprint Challenge, and you could win a gardening tool kit packed with:
- Seeds to start your own plant collection
- A growing disc to help your plants flourish
- Water-less crystals to retain moisture in the soil
- Watersticks to monitor your plant's hydration levels
Share your adventures with us
We’d love to see where your guilt-free adventures take you! Whether you'reexploring RHS Wisley, walking along a scenic stream, or creating your own water-wise garden, share your moments with us.
Tag us in your photos (@AffinityWater) or send them in to socialmediateam@affinitywater.co.uk and we might even feature them on our social media! Let’s inspire others to get out in nature and protect our local environment together.