Yes, that’s a take on the famous line from Elizabeth Barrett Browning’s 1850 sonnet “How do I love thee? Let me count the ways” – and while we’re not writing poetry here, it does feel like the perfect way to introduce our 20th anniversary campaign.

2026 marked 20 years since the Rockingham Forest Trust began running and managing Stanwick Lakes. To celebrate, we’re running a little campaign highlighting 20 ways you can support Stanwick Lakes. First shared on Valentine’s Day, it’s a playful nod to the theme of love, but it is hoped that it will continue to inspire people all year round.

Charities like Stanwick Lakes rely on support from people to keep running. Volunteers give their time, staff give their skills, and donations help cover the costs of maintaining paths, caring for wildlife, running events, and keeping the site open for everyone to enjoy. Even if you can’t do a lot, every little bit helps – whether it’s a small donation, a visit, or simply spreading the word – and it all adds up to make a real difference for the site and the people who care for it.

The list is made up of 20 really easy ways to support Stanwick Lakes. Ten focus on ways you can help our volunteers, whose dedication has been a vital part of the site’s history over the last 20 years. The other ten suggest more general ways to support Stanwick Lakes as a whole – from simple everyday actions to small contributions that make a real difference.

First, 10 Ways Visitors Can Thank or Help Our Volunteers:

1. – Say thank you – a smile and a few kind words in person go a long way.
2. – Notice the volunteer work around you. We have over 40 volunteers that visit regularly contribute to caring for the site.
3. – Write a thank-you note or postcard and drop it in at the visitor centre or café.
4. – If you have a good experience with a volunteer, let us know, mentioning volunteers by name if possible.
5. – Nominate a volunteer for recognition or a shout-out (more on how to do this to come, but, for now, you can let us know by email with notes about your experience).
6. – Attend volunteer-led open days / activities or talks and engage fully – ask questions, listen to their knowledge. Your interest is rewarding!
7. – Why not volunteer yourself! You could come along with a friend.
8. – Work for a company? Consider Stanwick Lakes for your CSR volunteer projects or a work party
9. – Pay it forward, and donate towards volunteer projects or resources.
10. – Simply follow guidelines – it genuinely helps volunteers’ days run smoothly (and respond kindly to requests from volunteers on site).

And… 10 ways you can show love for the charity that looks after Stanwick Lakes:

11. – Make a small donation – even spare change adds up.
12. – Become a Member of Stanwick Lakes.
13. – Share photos and stories online and tag the charity – @StanwickLakes
14. – Tell friends and family about Stanwick Lakes and encourage a visit.
15. – Choose charity options in the café (more to come – ask a member of the café team).
16. – Attend our ticketed events, walks, and seasonal activities.
17. – Care for the site – take litter home, respect wildlife and paths.
18. – Work for a company? Consider Stanwick Lakes as your nominated charity.
19. – Or choose us as a venue for your next event
20. – Keep coming back – repeat visits help sustain the charity long-term.

Over the past two decades, Stanwick Lakes has grown into the much-loved place it is today thanks to the dedication of volunteers, the hard work of the team, and the thousands of visitors who come to walk, learn, explore, and enjoy everything the site has to offer. Volunteers and staff alike continue to care for the landscape, welcome visitors, and create experiences that make the site so special.

Whether you choose to volunteer, support the site in small ways, or simply enjoy the lakes and trails, there are so many ways to be part of this journey. Here’s to the next 20 years of looking after Stanwick Lakes – and counting the ways we love it.