If lockdown taught us anything, it was the importance of outdoor green space – whether that be your own garden or a nearby park to enjoy the sun and relax in. In fact, unsurprisingly, in the last couple of years we have seen ‘a decent garden’ appear much further up people’s must-have lists, when looking for their new property to buy or rent.
It’s no surprise though. Research has shown that spending as little as 20 minutes outside every day can:
- Reduce stress
- Improve memory and concentration
- Restore mental energy and
- Improve social interaction
So whether your garden is large or small, or spending some time in nearby woodland or parks is more your vibe, here are some ways for you to enjoy the great outdoors.
Get acquainted with your local garden centre
There’s no better way to get horticulturally inspired than by spending time in your local garden centre. Just down the road from Corby you’ll find The Plant Man, where you’ll find a vast array of flowers and plants, as well as knowledgeable experts who can tell you what will work best in your garden. Or a little closer to home, Plants at Caldecott offers a smaller but still lovely selection for you to choose from. Even if you don’t have a garden, you could pick up some indoor plants to brighten up your home or apartment.
Design your own ‘herby’ windowsill
Whether you have a garden or not, a ‘herby’ kitchen windowsill is a sweet-smelling and practical way of bringing the outdoors in. A quick online search shows many pre-designed herb windowsill planters that you can buy. Or you can tailor your own, using the herbs that you use most in your cooking. Whether it’s fresh basil, mint, coriander, chives, thyme or rosemary, there’s nothing quite like the feeling of using home-grown herbs to make your dinner that bit more special.
Find your favourite spot in the great outdoors
We are incredibly lucky here in Corby, to have a huge selection of lovely outdoor spaces to visit. A local favourite is East Carlton Park, the perfect place to take the dog for a walk or to let your children burn off some energy. Enjoy beautiful open space while walking through Weldon Woodland Park or take the bikes to the picturesque surroundings of Fineshade Wood. History buffs will enjoy the architecture of Gretton Viaduct, or exploring the stunning gardens of Kirby Hall and Deene Park. Whatever your preference, you’re sure to find your favourite spot to visit without having to travel too far from your own doorstep.
Make your outdoor space a treat to visit
If you are lucky enough to have bought or rented a place with a garden, there are some very simple but effective ways to ensure it’s a pleasure to sit outside. Firstly, it’s an obvious one, but make sure you keep on top of the maintenance and weeding. There’s nothing that will put you off sitting outside in your garden faster than it being an unkempt, messy place to spend time. Next, buy some potted plants to bring some colour into the area. Even if you’re a renter, it’s a cheap way to put your own personal touch on your outdoor space. And why not buy some lanterns and lovely outdoor furniture, so that your garden becomes an extension of your indoor living area. Dining al fresco, having friends over for cocktails in the evening sun, sipping your morning coffee outside while enjoying the fresh air… all of this becomes possible when you design your own perfect outdoor space.
Want to chat about finding a new home with a garden or nearby to open green space? Call us today on 01536 261666, email corby@belvoir.co.uk, or pop in and see us for an informal chat at our office on George Street in the heart of Corby town centre.
Image by Adam Balcomb
