When nature lives nearer, we all live better
Our aim is to help millions more people enjoy time in nature close to home, in greener, thriving towns and cities.
©National Trust Images / Rebecca Hughes
Nature Towns and Cities is a coalition of public, private and third sector organisations, committed to bringing nature and green space to urban areas for everyone's benefit.
This coalition will help to put nature, green infrastructure and heritage at the heart of local decision-making, focusing on those areas that will benefit the most. Over the next 10 years we’re aiming to help 5 million more people enjoy better access to green and blue space close to home, and 1 million more children to be able to play in nature on their doorstep.
This includes all kinds of urban nature, and green and blue space that is freely available to the public. For example street trees, community growing spaces, urban woods, historic public parks, river and canal-sides and recreation grounds.
Over the next decade, we're aiming to work with 100 towns and cities across the UK, supporting them to transform their urban landscapes for people and nature.
Explore places across the UK we’re working with, and how Nature Towns and Cities accreditation and funding will help people living in those places to enjoy nature and green space, close to home.
The benefits nature brings
Millions of people living in urban areas lack vital access to nature and green space close to home. Yet evidence shows it makes us healthier, happier, more connected and more resilient.
People enjoying the outdoors
Enjoying time in green space and connecting with nature makes us happier and healthier. Especially those of us who live in urban areas and the youngest in society.
Bringing communities together
Green space can be the beating heart of community life, bringing together a unique mix of people and place. Green spaces are even more special when communities are able to shape and care for them.
Climate-resilient places
By cooling streets, cleaning the air or absorbing excess rainfall through green, spongy surfaces, green infrastructure can help reduce the effects of climate change in our towns and cities.
Thriving places that people are proud of
From historic parks to community gardens, green spaces and natural infrastructure give our towns and cities their character, culture and heritage. They are also a source of local pride, making great places to live, work and invest in.
Supporting people and places
We all want to see greener, healthier, more resilient and prosperous towns and cities.
Whether you’re from local government or business, public health or planning, a volunteer or a philanthropist, everyone has a part to play. By coming together to share ideas and innovate, forge new partnerships, develop ambitious plans, and attract new investment, we can all contribute.
Find out about the support on offer and how you can participate.
Resources to inspire your nature transformation
Take a look at the newest additions to our resource library. From tried and tested solutions to help transform your town or city, to case studies from people and places delivering change.
Get started with...
Case study
Guidance
Community guide to green social prescribing
21-10-2025
Get started with...
Case study
Community food growers’ guide
13-10-2025
Get started with...
Case study
Guidance
Community tree stewardship guide
21-10-2025
