Motivations to visit green and natural spaces: UK ethnic minority experiences and perceptions of greenspace in Bristol, England.

This thesis employs an interdisciplinary social science approach to explore inclusivity and engagement with nature, focusing on ethnic minority groups in the UK. Although the psychological, physiological, and social benefits of contact with nature are well-established, significant disparities in access and engagement continue to disproportionately impact ethnic minority communities. Stemming from a range of intersecting structural, social, and cultural factors, these groups are constrained from fully accessing and benefiting from natural environments. Yet, despite substantial literature on this topic, critical gaps remain in understanding how diverse groups perceive and conceptualise natural environments. This includes how perceptions and experiences are shaped by in-moment and daily interactions as well as broader sociocultural and contextual influences. Drawing on in-depth interviews and diary methods with 53 participants in Bristol, UK, this thesis explores the practices, preferences and perceptions of greenspaces among UK ethnic minority groups. Collaborating with Natural England, the research uncovers the nuanced and fluid nature of exclusionary processes, demonstrating how exclusion is neither uniform nor absolute. Positive experiences of nature often coexist with exclusionary dynamics, which are (re)shaped by a combination of personal habits, social status, and subtle forms of power and control. Moreover, this thesis situates these experiences within localised and broader geographical and generational contexts with the significance of cultural, social and place-based influences emerging prominently. Beyond its empirical contributions, this thesis advances conceptual understanding by integrating affordances theory with Bourdieu’s framework, illuminating the interplay between sociocultural influences and the materiality of socio-spatial contexts. It also introduces the concepts of ‘perceived exclusion’ and ‘everyday restoration’, to encapsulate the varied experiences of inclusion and exclusion, and emphasise how restorative interactions with nature are woven into the rhythms and challenges of daily life. Methodologically, this thesis adopts a reflexive approach to evaluate recruitment and data collection strategies, contributing to discussions on methodological choice, culturally sensitive research, and the importance of flexibility and adaptability. It offers insights into the use of composite narratives as an innovative tool for capturing the complexity of participants’ lived experiences, thus collectively providing valuable guidance for future research. The practical contributions of this work are reflected in a series of actionable recommendations, including nurturing childhood contact with nature, supporting peer-led outdoor groups, addressing 3 spatial and economic marginalisation, prioritising urban greenspaces, utilising allotments and growing spaces, implementing dog zoning practices, and promoting family-oriented activities. Within these examples, social and cultural capital are drawn upon as valuable conceptual assets to be leveraged in both research and practice. By addressing empirical, conceptual, methodological, and practical dimensions, this thesis provides a comprehensive examination of the constraints and opportunities for UK ethnic minority groups to engage with nature. It offers valuable insights for policymakers, practitioners, and researchers striving to transform green and natural spaces into truly inclusive and equitable environments for all.