A case story of the connection between woodlands, landscape, and nature-based recreation in upland England

Nature-based recreational tourism (NBRT) is increasing in upland regions and provides important revenue for rural areas. However, it relies on the aesthetic appearance of the landscape, cultural heritage and local perspectives. Certain landscape types, such as woodlands, are essential to the global climate and biodiversity crises, and this conundrum raises emotive and (often-)polarized arguments both for and against increasing woodland cover. We carried out a survey of NBRT, using photovisualization of different woodland scenarios in an upland landscape in the UK. We investigated tourist preferences for woodland levels, estimated the economic value of tourism, and assessed the likely impact on tourist visitor patterns should woodland cover increase. A qualitative Q-methodology investigation of local stakeholder perspectives elucidated both what such changes may entail to their local area and cultural identity, and the underlying values/emotions that influence opinions. The study offers a deeper understanding of this complex topic and shows that NBRT generates a substantial income to the area and visitor numbers will not decrease with up to a 75 percent increase in woodland cover. Combining quantitative and qualitative approaches identifies key concerns and conflicts and offers insights to address and/or alleviate concerns by appealing to both ‘head’ and ‘heart’ perspectives.