A HISTORIC hall is hosting a series of activities to help people "reconnect with nature".

Pilates, a wellness walk and children's yoga are all being held in the grounds of 17th-century East Riddlesden Hall.

The events are being staged in support of Mental Health Awareness Week, which begins on Monday, May 15.

Hester Pode, for East Riddlesden Hall, says: "At the hall we are surrounded by nature, whether that’s the bees at work in our gardens or birds that make their homes on the lower fields.

"We hope these special events allow people time to reconnect with nature and be mindful about the beautiful surroundings, and give visitors a chance to relax and boost their mood.

"According to The People and Nature Survey, led by Natural England, 82 per cent of adults nationally said that being in nature made them very happy, and 92 per cent agreed that spending time outdoors was good for their mental health.

"The National Trust is partnering with Cotswold Outdoor to inspire more people to discover the benefits of exploring the great outdoors."

Pilates for adults takes place in the hall gardens on May 9, 16 and 23, between 11am and noon.

Children’s yoga is being held on the same dates, from 10.30am to 11am.

Normal hall admission prices will apply for both. Entry for National Trust members and under-fives is free.

A wellness walk is planned for May 13, between 9am and 10am.

"This is a chance to take a morning walk along the lower fields at East Riddlesden Hall and spot some of the wildlife along the way – guided by a local bird expert," says Hester.

"Enjoy breakfast and a hot drink in the tearoom at the bothy once your walk is complete."

Booking for all the activities is essential.

Tickets can be obtained at nationaltrust-tickets.org.uk.

The National Trust is also promoting the wellbeing benefits of other sites in the region it manages, such as Marsden Moor and Hardcastle Crags.

Rosie Holdsworth, the trust's countryside manager in West Yorkshire, says: "There’s something really special about the landscapes we look after and how they help you to switch off from the day to day.

"At Hardcastle Crags, our woodlands are so peaceful. Just listening to bird song or the sound of a stream nearby immediately boosts my mood. And on Marsden Moor, the windswept, rugged views take your breath away. Both landscapes give you time to stop and think and notice your surroundings."