Natural England

Growing connections through nature

Across some of the UK’s natural landscapes and public parks, small actions can have a lasting impact. Natural England plays a vital role in protecting these environments, working to conserve, enhance and connect people with nature in ways that are both meaningful and sustainable.

Field were commissioned to design a cohesive suite of signage for four environmentally significant nature reserve sites. The ambition was clear: to help visitors enjoy these spaces while understanding their role in protecting them, enabling access, without compromise.

The approach puts people first. Rather than overwhelming visitors with rules, the signage invites them into a shared understanding of care and stewardship. A suite of welcome boards, informative panels and icon-led A3 signs work together as a clear, consistent system, guiding behaviour through a thoughtful blend of positive encouragement, gentle direction and, where needed, firmer messaging.

Visually, the designs are calm, confident and easy to navigate. Iconography plays a central role, creating an immediate and accessible language that can be understood at a glance. Messaging is deliberately concise and human, designed to resonate quickly, whether someone is passing through or pausing to take in their surroundings.

At its core, the project is about connection: between people and place, action and impact. By shaping a more intuitive and engaging visitor experience, the signage helps foster a deeper awareness of conservation, encouraging small, responsible choices that collectively protect these landscapes for the future.