Outdoor places are affected by the weather
Unlike indoor venues, many Hidden Places are exposed to changing weather and natural ground conditions.
Rain, wind, frost, snow, heat and seasonal changes can all affect your experience, even if the Place itself remains open.
Mud, uneven ground, fallen leaves, long grass and changing terrain are often part of visiting rural and outdoor locations.
Check the forecast before travelling
Always check the local weather forecast shortly before your visit.
Conditions can change quickly, particularly in rural areas where forecasts may differ from nearby towns or cities.
- Heavy rain.
- Strong winds.
- Thunderstorms.
- Extreme heat.
- Snow or ice.
- Flood warnings.
Wet weather
Rain can make paths, fields and woodland significantly more slippery than they appear in listing photographs.
Consider bringing:
- Waterproof footwear.
- Waterproof clothing.
- Spare clothing if appropriate.
- Protection for cameras or other equipment.
Allow extra time when walking over wet or uneven ground.
Hot weather
During warm weather, open fields and exposed areas may provide little natural shade.
Consider bringing:
- Drinking water.
- Sun cream.
- A hat.
- Suitable lightweight clothing.
- Any medication you may require.
Avoid overexertion during periods of extreme heat.
Cold weather
Winter conditions can make outdoor visits much colder than expected, particularly in open countryside.
Dress in warm layers and wear suitable footwear with good grip.
Ice, frost and frozen ground may affect both access and safety.
Wind and storms
Strong winds can make some outdoor activities unsafe, particularly near woodland, trees or temporary structures.
Hosts may cancel or postpone bookings where conditions present a genuine safety risk.
The host contacts you before your visit to explain that high winds have made the woodland unsafe and offers an alternative date.
Ground conditions
Ground conditions vary throughout the year.
You may encounter:
- Mud.
- Uneven paths.
- Tree roots.
- Loose gravel.
- Long grass.
- Standing water.
- Natural slopes.
Walk carefully and wear footwear suitable for outdoor terrain.
Wildlife and seasonal changes
Hidden Places exist within natural environments where wildlife and seasonal conditions are part of the experience.
Depending on the time of year you may encounter:
- Bird nesting areas.
- Livestock.
- Insects.
- Fallen branches.
- Long vegetation.
- Harvesting or farming activity nearby.
Respect wildlife and leave plants, trees and habitats undisturbed.
Clothing and equipment
Bring clothing suitable for both your activity and the expected weather conditions.
If your visit involves photography, yoga, camping or another specialist activity, remember to protect any equipment from the weather where necessary.
Weather does not always cancel a booking
Poor weather does not automatically mean that your booking will be cancelled.
Unless you hear otherwise from the host or Hidden Places, assume your booking is still going ahead.
If severe weather is forecast, contact the host if you are unsure whether your visit will be affected.
If conditions become unsafe
The safety of guests and hosts always comes first.
If weather conditions make the Place unsafe, the host may postpone or cancel the booking in accordance with the applicable booking and cancellation terms.
Never enter land that has been closed because of weather-related safety concerns.
Respect the countryside
Help protect the places you visit by following the Countryside Code and respecting the host's property.
- Take litter home.
- Close gates where instructed.
- Stay within permitted areas.
- Avoid disturbing livestock and wildlife.
- Leave the Place as you found it.
Be prepared for the unexpected
Outdoor environments naturally change throughout the day and across the seasons.
Arriving prepared, dressing appropriately and following the host's guidance will help you enjoy your Hidden Places experience safely, whatever the weather.