Tales from Tortworth: Hirer Jane’s story

Join us as we celebrate a 'Decade of Discovery' at Tortworth Forest Centre with heartfelt stories from those who’ve been part of our journey.

Tortworth is very dear to my heart. We used to visit in the early 2000s with a toddler group: picnics, tree climbing, paddling in the stream. So I was so excited to see it come back into use. Of course, it has changed a lot since then, as have I.

I’m so delighted that it is a community space and the team, events and initiatives are amazing. These days, I hire the space for a variety of reasons. Sometimes, for a treat, I just come myself, light a fire, do some writing. It serves me better than an expensive spa and I prefer the smell of woodsmoke to all those fancy aromas! I also bring clients here. It is such a safe outdoor space in which to do deep inner work. Nature is the greatest healer and this place soothes the soul. Finally, me and my friend Pam hire it to run our BEing in Nature sessions. These take place through the year. We tune in to the seasons, meditate, share soup or toast marshmallows, make connections with other people, and generally slow down and chill out.

If you are interested in experiencing any of the above, my website is www.janerenton.co.uk, email info@janerenton.co.uk, and you’ll find the BEing in Nature sessions advertised on Instagram @anamtraining,

Using money raised by National Lottery players, The National Lottery Heritage Fund supports projects that connect people and communities with the UK’s heritage. Our 10th anniversary celebration is made possible with The National Lottery Heritage Fund. Thanks to National Lottery players, we have been able to collect and share stories like these, and of course organise our free #Tortworthturns10 event in the woods on 26th April 2025.