Deep Time Walk: Geological History Tour

Come on a Deep Time Walk and travel through the incredible history of the planet and life on Earth!

Through this unique and creative walking experience using stories, poetry, conversation and games, you will discover the evolution of the Earth’s landscapes and lifeforms. You will also gain an embodied sense of the scale of the Earth's history and a deep appreciation for its significance in our lives today.

This conceptual 4.6 kilometre walk takes you on a journey through the Earth’s deep history. At a pace of 1 million years per metre, your host will walk you up the Earth's history from its beginnings 4.6 billion years ago, and introduce you to key moment in the Earth’s rich history. Find out, amongst many things, about... - the 'Hadean', the age when the Earth was continuously pummelled by comets - when liquid water and life first appeared - how the colours and sounds of our planet changed as Earth's life and landscapes evolved!

At the end of the walk, as we arrive back towards the present day, we will learn about the rapid evolution of the human species and the huge impact a segment of our species has had on the planet in our short lifetime on Earth. Space will be curated to discuss this impact, and how we can move to reduce our impact going forward.

We will stop about halfway round the walk for a break and a bite to eat. Bring a packed lunch with you as there are no shops nearby!

What to expect: - Learn about the Earth's history through a creative walking experience - Connect to a deep sense of awe and gratitude for our planet - Have the chance to reflect in a safe and supportive space on our impact on our fragile ecosystems

The walk takes a circular route around the Ashton Court Estate over varied terrain (tracks, grassland). Please come wearing suitable clothes and footwear.

This Deep Time Walk is led by geology educator Mathilde Braddock and creative writing facilitator and activist, Mark Smalley. Along the way we'll be pausing from time to time to mark the major milestones that chart Earth's long, slow development with time for reflection and writing.

This walk is based on the Deep Time Walk created by Stephan Harding and Sergio Maraschin at the Schumacher College. 10% of the walk fees go to the Deep Time Walk Project.

Minimum fitness level required.

Age restrictions: 15+

Adult £22
Concession (No or Low-income / Student / Child) £7.50
Group Ticket £38

How to get there

Facilities

  • Experience takes place outdoors
  • Parking

COVID-19 guidelines

The event is outdoors and participants can be as spaced out as they need to feel safe.

On the day

  • Meet shortly 10:50am at the cafe next to the top carpark in Ashton Court (near the golf course). Departure at 11am.
  • Wear good shoes for walking and bring layers for all weather.
  • Bring a packed lunch.

Transport: - By bike: hoops at the cafe - By bus: the X3 and X4 to Portishead stop just outside Ashton Court - By car: you can park in the carpark, but please give plenty of time for this as it can get very busy on a Saturday morning and you may need to find an alternative plan

Changes happen, don't worry

How to change dates
Change of plans? You can easily rebook the next available slot up to 1 days before your experience.
How to get a refund
Can't make it? We understand things happen! You can cancel and get a full refund up to 1 days before your experience.
Please note that this refund policy does not apply to gift bookings. You may reschedule your gift if outside the time period stated above. Please note that Yuup gift cards are valid for redemption for 12 months, and if not redeemed by this date, you will get a Yuup credit added to your Yuup account equivalent to the unspent value of the Yuup gift card less a Yuup administration fee of 20%.

You'll be hosted by

Mathilde (She/Her)

Mathilde runs Steps in Stone and is passionate about sharing the story of the land under our feet and being outdoors with other nature-lovers.

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Any questions?

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