Explore 270 acres (110 hectares) of ancient parkland, where a historic herd of fallow deer roams freely and magnificent trees and breathtaking views abound.
Bird Watching
Bird Watching
What is it?
Bird watching is a specific form of wildlife observation focused on finding and watching birds in their natural habitat. Not to be confused with ornithology (which is the scientific study of birds), the aim of bird watchers is merely to observe, and to find as many different types of birds as they can.
What does it involve?
In general, bird watching involves locating and observing birds in their natural environment without disturbing them too much. It can involve quite a large amount of patience and determination if trying to locate a specific bird, but is a great way of appreciating the natural world.
Why do it and what are the benefits?
Bird watching can greatly improve personal attitudes towards nature and the environment, and teaches perseverance and passion for a topic. Spending time outside can also be incredibly relaxing and it can be refreshing to get away from buildings and technology.
What equipment do we need?
You shouldn't need more equipment than your eyes or perhaps some binoculars for bird watching! It might also be a good idea to do some research beforehand on types of birds you wish to see and what is common to your area so you can check them off as you go along!
Who is it suitable for?
Bird observation is fairly risk free so is suitable for all ages, but younger groups may find it hard to concentrate on the task as it involves being fairly quiet and observing the environment carefully!
Costs?
Other than access to certain parks, bird watching should cost you nothing!
Issues/Things to think about? (unsuitable for age groups, medical conditions etc)
Bird watching is a fairly specific area of interest, so bear in mind the interests of the group when considering this as an activity.
How do we include?
This is a pastime that should be easy for people of abilities to enjoy, as it doesnt require too much activity - just an interest in the surroundings!
Doing it abroad?
Bird watching in a foreign country could be great for those who are interested in the topic, as it can provide an opportunity to see many birds that aren't present in the UK!
Main website:
This page has some great general information about bird watching.
Venues with this Activity
The Folly Farm Centre is an environmental learning centre in the heart of the Chew Valley. Set in Avon Wildlife Trust's 250-acre nature reserve, it is an inspirational place to pick up new skills, learn and engage with an exciting and diverse programme of courses.
175 species, over 600 animals
Enjoy a day out in North Devon experiencing wildlife from around the world by visiting Exmoor Zoo! From the creepy crawlies of the Amazon to the wobbly wallaby joeys of Australia there are plenty of hands on activities with our animals for you to take part in.
A delightful pick and mix selection of places along the coast
From Trewavas in the east to Trenow in the west the characters of each area are as different as their histories; industrial heritage sites, wild and rocky cliffs, archaeological treats, and tiny wind-harassed agricultural coastal fields.
County Durham's coastline has emerged from a polluted industrial past to become a haven for wildlife
Durham Coast is a wonderful place for walkers and for those who want to enjoy the scenery from the cliff top paths.
The magnesian limestone that underlies this area has given rise to a spectacular landscape of cream-coloured cliffs intersected by steep-sided wooded valleys, or gills.
The most historic hill on the South Downs
Cissbury Ring, just north of the coastal town of Worthing, is one of the jewels in the crown of the new South Downs National Park. It's the largest hill fort in Sussex and has a history dating back over 5,000 years.
The deepest gorge in the South West, with spectacular 30m waterfall
The gorge is an amazing place to visit at any time of the year. The wildlife, river, plants and trees provide a stunning show each and every day.
Dippers and wagtails can be seen flying low over the river, while woodland birds can be spotted darting about in the trees.
Nestled in undulating hills, step back to a timeless rural life
Drovers is a hidden estate nestling in the undulating hills and valleys of the South Downs. Here you can step back to a timeless rural life, set amidst shady woodland and rolling ancient pastures, punctuated by traditional flint cottages and barns. It provides an insight into traditional management which has formed the working landscape that we see today.
Located halfway between Orkney and Shetland, Fair Isle is one of Britain’s most remote inhabited islands.
Rocky island connected to the cliffs by a rope bridge
Suspended almost 100 ft (30 m) above sea level, the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge was first erected by salmon fishermen 350 years ago. Today it is a popular tourist destination, attracting thousands of thrill-seekers (and birdwatchers!) to the North Coast every year.
A garden for all seasons
Steeped in nearly 300 years of history, this eighteen-century garden is a green oasis in the heart of Surrey within easy reach of London.
Memorial to Octavia Hill overlooking the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
Hydon's Ball is one of our earliest acquisitions and is a memorial to one of our co-founders, Octavia Hill, who died in 1912. It’s one of the highest points in Surrey and the steep, wooded, south-facing slope commands magnificent views across the surrounding countryside towards the Sussex border.
Dramatic hill-top views and secluded valleys, with abundant wild flowers
Harting Down nature reserve in West Sussex is one of the largest areas of ancient chalk downland cared for by us. A tapestry of pristine downland blends beautifully with scattered scrub and woodland.
A great place for a picnic. Enjoy impressive views of The Weald
Ide Hill is 33.5 acres of semi-natural woodland that lies on the side of the Greensand Ridge. The area is designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest due to its abundant wildlife.
Discover Staffordshire's secret woodlands
In the beautiful Churnet valley sits Hawksmoor. The ancient woodland is an excellent place to spot green woodpeckers, spotted flycatchers and ravens. The wild flowers and archaeology of Gibriddingt Wood are so special that they have attracted artists and photographers for many years.
Huge park offering lakes, meadows and rivers for exploration, plus a multi activity centre and adventure playground. Incorporates a proper 9 hole golf course please note not crazy or mini golf though beginners welcome.
Panoramic views from the top of world
Ditchling Beacon is located 7 miles to the north of Brighton and just south of the village of Ditchling. At 248 metres above sea-level, Ditchling Beacon is the highest point in East Sussex and offers commanding 360 degree views from its summit. Look south out to sea, north across the Weald or east-west across the Downs.
A park at the heart of the community
Morden Hall Park is green oasis in the city, giving you a taste of a country estate with a glimpse of its agricultural and industrial history.
Extensive chalk and grassland Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
Soar above a breathtaking landscape, sculpted over time, decorated by nature and enjoyed by generations.
Stand on top of Dunstable Downs for a view that will simply take your breath away. These Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) are designated for the quality of their chalk grasslands.
A remote island in the Norfolk Broads
You may not have heard of Heigham Holmes, but this 500 acre nature reserve is an oasis of calm and a haven for wildlife – and heaven for wildlife lovers.
It’s a unique and internationally important site, with reed-fringed flood banks, open water, grazing marsh, scrub and wet woodland. They're linked by a maze of dykes and pools characteristic of the Norfolk broadland landscape.
500 acres of beautiful woodlands, grasslands, gardens and lake.
We have a children's play area, climbing forest, picnic benches and barbecue areas, a bird hide, woodlands, open space for the children to play and of course plenty of ducks and swans to feed!
It is the perfect location for a fun filled family day out or a relaxing picnic out in the fresh air.
Varied landscape of moorland, woods, farms and coast, rich in wildlife
Holnicote Estate makes up 12,000 acres of Exmoor National Park and is a contrasting landscape with everything from wild, rugged moorland and shingle beaches to ancient woodland and charming thatched villages.
A Land Apart...
A precious landscape whose distinctive character and natural beauty is so outstanding that it is protected for future generations...
Broads Holiday Adventure
Spend quality time on the Broads with Herbert Woods.
A wonderful mix of open heathland, woodland and chalk downland
Headley Heath has a wide network of tracks to explore, and stunning views to rival any of its neighbours - the perfect place to enjoy the countryside, whether walking, cycling or horseriding.
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