Unlock Nature: 16-24s Go Free

After a successful two‑year trial, we’re excited to announce that the RSPB is committed to making free entry for 16–24‑year‑olds business as usual indefinitely! That means you can explore some of the UK’s most wonderfully wild places — completely free. 

Whether you’re looking for fresh air, wildlife encounters, a peaceful study break, or inspiration for your next adventure, RSPB nature reserves are now yours to enjoy without spending a penny. 

Nature is for everyone, and we want people of all ages and backgrounds to feel welcome in wild places. But research shows that cost is one of the biggest barriers for young people — so we removed it. 

By making free access permanent, we hope even more young people will discover the joy, calm, and inspiration that nature brings. 

All you need to do is show a valid photo ID with your age on it when you arrive at the nature reserve. This could be a driving license, a proof of age card or your passport. 

Entry to the RSPB nature reserves across the UK which charge visitors are now free for 16–24-year-olds. Parking charges may still apply at our nature reserves, so please keep this in mind if you’re coming by car.  

The new changes for 16-24 won’t impact on our current arrangements for under 16s. These are that under-fives go free at our nature reserves, and the first child is also free with a paying adult. 

If you’re aged 16-24 you could be a Youth Member (for under 18s), an adult member or a family member, all of which means you already enjoy free access to RSPB nature reserves. If you are a member aged 16-24, you don’t need to do anything different, just show your membership card when you arrive to get free entry.  
 
If you’re not a member and aged 16-24, there are still great reasons to join us, with youth, family and adult memberships all offering slightly different benefits on top of free access to reserves. For youth members aged 13–18, you’ll also receive a wildlife journal when you join, along with Wingbeat – a brilliant, nature‑filled magazine written by teenagers for teenagers.

By becoming a member, you’re also helping to support the vital work we’re doing to protect and restore our wildlife and wild places. 

Parking charges may still apply at our nature reserves, so please keep this in mind if you’re coming by car.