Time spent outdoors improves mental health and wellbeing

A survey carried out for the National Trust for Scotland shows that 97% of Scots believe access to the outdoors is important for their mental health, a point that is particularly significant at this time of year when the wintery weather and dark nights can deter people from heading out.

Dundonians have been unveiled as the strongest advocates for spending time outdoors, with 99% agreeing it’s important for their overall wellbeing, closely followed by people from Inverness (97%) and Glasgow (96%). The research also found that 95% of those surveyed said spending time outdoors was effective at reducing their stress levels, with 89% stating that it enhances their quality of life.

The Scottish coast topped the polls as the preferred place to spend time outdoors (58%), followed by 50% who favoured woodland spaces and 48% choosing country parks or gardens. The popularity of a wide range of landscapes, and their value to people’s wellbeing, has highlighted the importance of our charity’s work to care for, protect and share Scotland’s outdoor places.

With over 100 places in our care across Scotland, we aim to ensure that people of all ages have the opportunity – both now and in the future – to discover new places, make memories and learn more about Scotland’s natural and cultural heritage, all while experiencing the positive wellbeing impact of the outdoors. Our countryside places range from the spectacular Corrieshalloch Gorge NNR, to stunning forests at the Hermitage, beautiful landscaped gardens at Crathes Castle and Culzean, and the opportunity to bag another Munro (when weather conditions are right) at Mar Lodge Estate NNR.

Clea Warner, the National Trust for Scotland’s Regional Director for Highlands & Islands, said: ‘Our charity is privileged to look after some of the country’s most beautiful natural heritage, and every day we see the positive impact that the great outdoors can have on wellbeing and mental health.

‘It doesn’t have to be an epic climb of a mountain or extreme water sports – it can be as simple as a walk around a peaceful garden or beside the bracing Scottish coastline. Whether you’re looking for a family day out, to make new memories with friends, or discover a new experience, there’s a place and activity for everyone.’

Clea continued: ‘It’s thanks to the generosity of our members and supporters that we can continue our vital work of caring for and sharing Scotland’s most special places, helping to create memories that last a lifetime.’

In further support of our work to share the benefits of nature and the outdoors, we appointed Dr Cal Major, vet, adventurer and advocate for nature and the oceans, as our ambassador in 2023. Speaking frequently about how the outdoors has enhanced her own mental wellbeing, Cal’s role as ambassador is helping to raise awareness of the Trust’s important work, particularly around the conservation of natural spaces.

Commenting on the research results, Cal said: ‘Over the course of my career, I have discovered that an appreciation of what it means for their wellbeing is why lots of folk feel a strong connection to nature. This often translates into a recognition of its importance in their lives and a desire to protect it.

‘Beyond the National Trust for Scotland’s survey results, there is scientific research showing that nature, especially blue spaces such as the ocean, is beneficial for our human wellbeing. This seems logical – as humans, historically we would have been hard-pushed to survive without it, so it’s no wonder we’re drawn to it. But in our modern society, which is so fast-paced and disconnected from nature, making space for it in our lives has never been more important. And equally, nature has never needed us to stand up for its protection more.’

Many National Trust for Scotland places are open all year round, enabling you to blow those cobwebs away and experience some of Scotland’s most iconic landscapes, whenever you like.

Find out more and plan your next visit