Forest Bathing at Gilbert White’s House & Gardens, Selborne

Escape the stresses of everyday life with a relaxing Forest Bathing session at Gilbert White’s House & Gardens in Selborne on Wednesday 28 October 2026.

Set amongst the beautiful parkland and woodland surrounding Gilbert White’s House, this guided experience encourages you to slow down, switch off and reconnect with nature.

Rooted in the Japanese practice of Shinrin-Yoku, Forest Bathing isn’t about swimming. Instead, you’ll take a gentle journey through nature, using your senses to become more aware of the sights, sounds, scents and textures around you.

It’s a wonderful choice if you’re searching for wellbeing activities in Hampshire, mindfulness experiences or simply an opportunity to enjoy some peaceful time outdoors.

At a glance

What: Forest Bathing – Nature Connection for Wellbeing
Where: Gilbert White’s House & Gardens, Selborne, Hampshire
Date: Wednesday 28 October 2026
Time: 10:30am–1pm
Meeting point: Reception
Experience: Guided Forest Bathing session followed by woodland tea
Booking: Advance booking essential as spaces are limited
Setting: Parkland and woodland

What happens during Forest Bathing?

During the session, you’ll wander through the grounds at a leisurely pace while being encouraged to engage mindfully with your surroundings.

You might notice the texture of tree bark, listen to birdsong or simply breathe in the fresh, earthy aromas of the woodland.

Guided mindful invitations will help you feel grounded and present, creating space to relax beneath the leafy canopy.

The experience finishes with a warming woodland tea, providing a peaceful end to the session.

What is Shinrin-Yoku?

Forest Bathing is inspired by the Japanese practice of Shinrin-Yoku, which centres around immersing yourself mindfully in a forest environment.

The session at Gilbert White’s House focuses on using this connection with nature to support relaxation and wellbeing.

The organisers highlight potential benefits including easing stress and overthinking, supporting mental clarity and helping with sleep and concentration.

It’s less about covering miles and more about slowing down and experiencing the woodland differently.

A peaceful autumn experience in Hampshire

October is a beautiful time to experience Hampshire’s woodlands.

With the changing season providing the backdrop, this could be a lovely way to spend a few hours outdoors while taking some time for yourself.

If you’re exploring what’s on in Hampshire and looking for something beyond the usual days out, Forest Bathing offers a very different experience.

Gilbert White’s House is located in the picturesque village of Selborne, making this particularly convenient for those looking for things to do near Alton and East Hampshire.

Good to know before you go

The session is expected to go ahead in most weather conditions.

Wear long trousers and suitable walking shoes or boots. Strong trainers or wellies should also be suitable for most of the trails used.

You may want to bring a small backpack with water, an extra layer and waterproof clothing. On warmer days, consider sun cream and a hat.

Spaces are limited, so advance booking is required.

Further Forest Bathing sessions are also scheduled for 24 September and 20 November 2026.

FAQs

When is Forest Bathing at Gilbert White’s House?

The October session takes place on Wednesday 28 October 2026 from 10:30am until 1pm.

Where does the session take place?

Forest Bathing takes place within the park and woodland at Gilbert White’s House & Gardens in Selborne, Hampshire.

Do you actually go swimming?

No. Forest Bathing involves slowing down and mindfully immersing yourself in the sights, sounds, scents and textures of a woodland environment.

Do I need to be very fit?

The experience involves wandering through the grounds at a leisurely pace rather than completing a fast or strenuous walk.

What should I wear?

Long trousers and walking shoes or boots are recommended. Strong trainers or wellies should also work for most of the trails.

Does Forest Bathing still take place if it rains?

Sessions are expected to continue in all but the worst weather, so bring suitable clothing for the conditions.