Rewilding Legacy Award
Sir Humphry Wakfield
Rewilding Legacy Award
Sir Humphry Wakefield
Wilderness Pioneer & Heritage Rewilder
Chillingham Estate, for a career-long commitment and lasting impact in the field of rewilding
Sir Humphry Wakefield, 2nd Baronet, has been presented with the Rewilding Legacy Award 2025, honouring a lifetime of dedication that has left an enduring mark on conservation, landscape restoration, and the inspiration of new generations to reconnect with the wild.
Sir Humphry is the esteemed custodian of Chillingham Castle and its unique herd of wild Chillingham cattle, a living symbol of ecological and cultural heritage. His advocacy for rewilding and ecosystem restoration spans decades and continents. Early in his career, he collaborated with influential persons such as Laurens van der Post, Dr. Ian Player and others to help establish the Wilderness Foundation, promoting the protection of wild spaces and the education of future conservation leaders. He later chaired Wendy Campbell-Purdie’s foundation, advancing land restoration in North Africa, and has served as a director of the Tree of Life Foundation since 1976.
A Lifelong Steward of Wild Heritage
Sir Humphry’s vision combines hands-on stewardship with global leadership. At Chillingham Castle today, he continues to protect the wild cattle, safeguard their landscape, and exemplify how heritage management and conservation can work hand in hand. Beyond these roles, he has inspired countless young people to engage with nature and understand the value of wild processes — a legacy that will resonate for generations.
A Life of Exploration and Inspiration
His life has also been marked by exploration and adventure: from joining the New Zealand Everest Team in 1990 to participating in Norman D. Vaughan’s Antarctic Expedition in 1993. A fellow of the Royal Geographical Society and the Pierpont Morgan Library, a life member of the Scott Polar Institute, and a patron of numerous cultural and conservation institutions, Sir Humphry demonstrates that curiosity, courage, and commitment are essential ingredients for rewilding both landscapes and minds.
For his extraordinary contributions to conservation, his pioneering work in ecosystem and landscape restoration, and his enduring ability to inspire and mentor others, we are proud to present the Rewilding Legacy Award to Sir Humphry Wakefield.
Celebrating Bold Vision
Honouring pioneers whose ideas and dedication are transforming landscapes, inspiring communities, and shaping the future of rewilding around the world.
Recognising More Rewilding Pioneers
Rewilding Pioneer Award
The Rewilding Pioneer Award 2025 goes to Frans Vera, a visionary whose groundbreaking ideas and perseverance have fundamentally transformed how we understand nature. His work continues to shape rewilding practice and inspire conservationists worldwide.
Species Rewilding Award
Lucy Rees received the Species Rewilding Award for pioneering work with Europe’s wildest horse herds. Her research on Pottokas reveals how wild horses interact, informing rewilding and domestic horse welfare.