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Hawthorn is one of those plants that blends so completely into the British landscape that most people barely register it. It sits quietly in hedgerows, scratches at jacket sleeves on footpaths, and forms dense natural boundaries between fields that have existed for generations. It doesn’t look particularly impressive, and it certainly doesn’t have the reputation of modern “superfoods”. Yet once you understand how it has been used historically, it becomes one of the more quiet

When people head outdoors in the UK, most preparation tends to look fairly similar. A waterproof jacket goes in the bag, boots that can handle mud and uneven ground, and maybe a map and compass if navigation is taken seriously. It is a sensible setup and, most of the time, it works well enough. But there is one item that rarely makes it onto that list, even though it is used regularly in hill walking groups, cadet training, and paddlesports: the bothy bag.

There is a habit in preparedness circles of looking past the simplest solutions. People often chase long-life rations, complex storage systems, or specialist equipment, when in reality some of the most useful “everyday resilience foods” are already sitting in the average kitchen cupboard. Overnight oats are one of those quiet wins.

Drones are often seen as expensive toys. Something to capture a nice campsite photo, film a sunrise, or grab a quick clip for social media. But in the hands of a trained and responsible pilot, a drone becomes something far more powerful. It becomes a way to search for missing people, assess danger before you walk into it, and understand land you cannot easily reach. It becomes a tool for awareness, planning, and support.

When the cold grips the UK and the landscape turns into a winter wonderland, snow is more than just a pretty scene or a reason to go sledging. For outdoor enthusiasts, bushcrafters, campers, and members of the UKSN community, snow can be an important resource if you know how to make it safe to drink.

A reliable and well-maintained knife is an essential tool for bushcraft activities. However, it's key to prioritise safety at all times.

Whether you are a weekend camper, a bushcraft enthusiast, or someone passionate about prepping, mastering a few essential skills can transform a stressful situation into an exciting challenge. Here are ten expert tips that every UK adventurer should know.

Survival is a fascinating topic that has captured the imagination of millions. From gripping dramas on television to blockbuster films, stories of people overcoming extreme conditions and mastering the wilderness are everywhere. However, these portrayals often paint a picture that is far from reality. Whether it is the quick mastery of complex bushcraft skills or lone heroes triumphing against all odds, Hollywood and TV shows sometimes get survival badly wrong.

Here are five essential bushcraft skills every UKSN member should aim to learn and refine. These skills are not only useful for outdoor adventures and wild camping, but they also build the foundation for greater self-sufficiency and resilience.