SPRING ESSENTIALS

GUIDES & APPS

Nowadays a wealth of countryside knowledge is at your fingertips with superb (often free) smartphone apps, like the Woodland Trust’s British Trees (woodlandtrust.org.uk). For those happier consulting ink and paper, Collins publishes an excellent range of pocket-sized field guides, covering everything from wild animals to foraging. Collins Gem Birds (pictured) is currently £5.99 at Waterstones (waterstones.com)

BINOCULARS

Roving naturalists shouldn’t be without a trusty pair of ‘bins’ for a close-up view of far off fauna. A basic pocket pair, like Silva’s Pocket 8x binocular (pictured, £40; millets. co.uk), is relatively inexpensive, but top-end models can set you back a few hundred pounds.

TREKKING POLE

While not as beneficial as using two (see summer, page 84), a single, adjustable trekking pole like the Vango Inca (pictured, £13.50 each; vango.co.uk) can provide reassuring support over steep, uneven ground and relieve the pressure on your knees. Choose one with a handle (usually made from foam, cork or rubber) you’ll find comfortable. A pole can be handy for clearing a nettlechoked

path too. The rest of the time, it can be collapsed and stowed away.

WATER BOTTLE

Stay hydrated with a reusable water bottle – generally inexpensive and sold everywhere. Nalgene’s Tritan Wide Mouth Bottle is a tough, timeless design, made from BPA-free plastic and available in 500ml (pictured, £11; cotswold outdoor.com) and 1 litre versions.