100 Plants Challenge in person event - Marbury Country Park, Cheshire

This is event is part of a suite of events, offered by BSBI members as part of the 100 plants in 2026 Challenge. Participants will have the opportunity to meet other botanists, and learn some common plants, while taking an informal beginner-focused walk.

Description: This will be a gentle paced walk on flat terrain with gravel paths. We will start in the carpark, which has a small parking fee. We will then head into the parkland which features grassland and veteran trees, including long avenues of trees. Here you will be able to learn grassland species and tree species. We will then further explore woodland species by entering the woodland to identify some shade tolerant species common within woodlands along with a selection of native trees and shrubs. We will also go along by Budworth Mere and Forge Brook which will allow us to identify some wetland species. The route is approximately 2km, but can be shortened or lengthened depending on how people are feeling!

As it's part of the 100 Plants in 2026 challenge, we suggest you install iRecord on your phone before coming, and make sure your phone is fully charged/ready to take pictures. Please bring a hand lens and your identification guides/books (e.g. Rose's Wildflower Key, etc) if you have them! I will bring a range of nice books we can use to help also.

Facilities: The park has onsite toilets, however we will need to bring lunch and a drink. Sturdy footwear is recommended, plus waterproofs if the weather is poor, and sun cream if otherwise!

Led by: Nathaniel Foley

Meeting point: Marbury Country Park car park.
What3Words: agreed.third.bless
Grid Reference: SJ 65187 76328
Post code: CW9 6AT

Contingency plan (in case of bad weather): In the event of bad weather, we will postpone and rearrange to another date. Please keep a close eye on your email or provide a phone number to the host to avoid disappointment.

Expected terrain: The site is flat, with well maintained footpaths.

Expected required fitness level: The walk will be approximately 2km, with the option of a shorter route. There will be no ascent.

Enquiries: nathaniel@ues.org.uk

Safety and booking terms: Please read this guidance for participants at BSBI events carefully, before booking.