Park Yoga

 Why was Park Yoga created?

We wanted to bring the therapeutic benefits of being outdoors in nature, combined with yoga to as many people as possible for free.

How did you understand what people wanted?

We piloted Park Yoga at two locations initially, then grew organically from there based on demand from participants and local authorities wanting to fund and establish Park Yoga in their towns and cities.

We made sure we actively listened to our Park Yogi's over the past 9 seasons - making changes where we could to ensure our activities were exactly what they wanted.

How did you promote your activities? 

• We create a Facebook page for each of our venues.
• We have social media channels where we post organic and paid content
• We create a poster which venues can print and put up in local shops / cafes close to each venue - We create a website page with key information on for each venue
• We have an email newsletter and send out press releases to local newspapers
• We network and connect with GPs, social prescribers and charities near to each of our venues so they can promote Park Yoga to their beneficiaries

Impact of Park Yoga

In 2025 we averaged 4,152 participants a week across our 55 venues. This summer we’re working in 74 locations and aiming to support nearly 6,000 people weekly.

Park Yoga makes a significant difference to participant’s lives with 90% feeling happier after our sessions, 74% reporting an increase in their physical activity and 68% feeling more connected to their community.

Impact of Volunteers 

Our volunteers significantly contribute to the successful running of our venues across the UK. They help our instructors set up equipment, accept donations and take photos, but most importantly they’re the welcoming face when people arrive – especially to those people who’ve never been to Park Yoga before.

One of our volunteers has told us this “It feels really good for me to be able to give back as a thank you to the charity after being able to attend such wonderful yoga sessions free of charge.”

Another said:” I really enjoy the volunteer role; it’s lovely to give back to a charity I support. It has been very rewarding to see an impact my role has had - I think it has increased donations and the instructor has felt more supported which is amazing. I’d be happy to do more, such as promotion, posters, events etc if that kind of support is required.”

How have you overcome barriers?

Like many similar organisations, funding is always a challenge and we've diversified significantly this year for the first time.

We also always have the worry that people won't turn up to our sessions at the start of the season, it's like when you're organising a party and worrying people won't be there...but they normally are...especially if our marketing's done properly.

What are your plans for the future?

We're hoping to grow the number of venues we operate, potentially up to 150 locations across the UK (expanding in Scotland, Wales & Ireland) by 2027.

In 2026 we are expanding our volunteering programme across all our venues for the first time, with an amazing 87 people signed up to support us so far.

 We are exploring new digital systems to improve reporting and make it easier for participants to track their attendance - We’re supporting our instructors to create the most inclusive and welcoming experience for all our participants — including for those with long-term health conditions, disabilities or who may not be very active.

Advice for other groups

Go for it! Test your ideas and listen to your participants feedback, they'll be your advocates for years to come if you get it right.

How does Park Yoga embody the 'Suitable' action area?

We try and have as few barriers to participation as we can - we're free to attend, you don't have to book and you need minimal equipment (just a yoga mat, towel or blanket). Our Park Yogi's tell us we're inclusive, welcoming, friendly and non-judgmental - we know we don't alw