Phil’s Substack

Seeking fulfilment by deepening our connection with nature, landscape and the wildness inside. A perspective from rural Scotland.

Writing about conservation volunteering, urban wildlife, nature writing, and a few other things

Considering the wildlife and plants we live near, yet often overlook, the environment and wildlife gardening. Regular photos and a longer article on Sundays.

The tranquility you need today. Evocations of wood and water from Scotland.

Insights and images from an everyday nature photographer.

Join me as I go in search of every tree featured in the book 'Heritage Trees of Scotland'.

Proving there's no such thing as a disappointing walk – even if a basking shark remains elusive.

Exploring the natural world through art, culture & history

A Border Poets from the Welsh Marches

Nature. Writer. Reader. Rural. Guardian Country Diary, BBC Countryfile, RSPB. Author of On Gallows Down & Ghosts of the Farm. Climate Fic Prize Judge, 2025

Among the Stems invites you to slow down, notice the small wonders, and deepen your understanding of the wildlife and plants around us. Explore wildlife insights, nature guides, nature travel, and tips for growing your own food.