This guided campus walk invites you to explore the University of Huddersfield’s green and blue spaces and discover how nature in urban settings supports health and wellbeing. Over 75 minutes, we will visit a variety of environments across the campus from landscaped gardens and food-growing areas, to waterside paths and elevated views.
Each stop combines grounded discussion with insights from cutting edge research, drawn from a recent review of urban green space and health inequalities conducted by University of Huddersfield researchers. Participants will learn how access to high quality green space can boost mental wellbeing, reduce chronic disease risk and help close health gaps between communities. We will also explore how green and blue spaces are being used in public policy from social prescribing and workplace wellbeing, to urban design and climate resilience. This is a chance to learn, share ideas and experience the restorative power of nature first-hand.
Please note: the route includes uneven surfaces, slopes and canal towpaths and may not be fully step-free. Seating/rest points exist near most stops. For access queries or reasonable adjustments, contact the organiser in advance.
This event is part of the ESRC Festival of Social Science 2025 and was made possible thanks to funding from the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC), which is part of UK Research and Innovation (UKRI). The ESRC Festival of Social Science 2025 is a UK-wide celebration of social science research (18 October – 8 November).
“The ESRC Festival of Social Science demonstrates the impact that research has on society and highlights the value of social science in shaping our lives.” – Stian Westlake, Executive Chair, ESRC.
