Winter Bird Walk 4 - Attenborough NR
Description
An easy walk on good, level paths around this fantastic and popular birding destination in the Trent valley.
This Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust reserve consists of a series of flooded gravel pits and extensive reedbeds. Expect good numbers and a big variety of wintering wildfowl including Goldeneye, Pochard and Goosander (with the chance of scarcer species such as Smew and Ring Necked Duck) as well as waders like Lapwing and Snipe and a good variety of Heron/Egret species with Bittern, Great Egret and Cattle Egret regularly recorded.
This extensive site always offers the chance of something rarer too (a Pallas’s warbler turned up a couple of winters ago). There’s a fantastic visitor centre and café on site as well!
Need To Know
An easy walk on good levels paths so should be suitable for those with mobility issues. Plenty of facilities with toilets and a café available on the route. Can be busy but well worth it!
Price:£15 per person
Date:09/02/2025
Time:8:15 am
Duration:3 hours
Availability:1 places remaining
'Discover Mountain Hares' Walk 1 *FULLY BOOKED*
Description
Did you know that the Dark Peak area of the Peak District holds the most southerly population of Mountain Hares in the UK?
One of only three native animals to turn white in Winter, the Mountain Hare (Lepus Timidus) was once found over much of Britain but was thought to have died out around 6000 years ago. The current population was reintroduced to the Peaks and much of Northern England in Victorian times by sporting estates for shooting (a practice that thankfully no longer takes place), but whilst the reintroduction was unsuccessful elsewhere a population became established in the Dark Peak. There are thought to be around 2500 Mountain Hares remaining in the Peak District.
Our Mountain Hare walks are always one of our most one of our most sought after tours and we are pleased to confirm that this year we will be running a mixture of both private walks and two fixed date ‘Discover Mountain Hares’ walks where we’ll visit some prime Hare habitat, talk about the biology and history of Mountain Hares in the Peak District and look for tracks and signs as well as try to locate the Hares themselves (along with any other upland winter wildlife which in 2023 & 2024 included Ravens, Red Grouse, Kestrel, Curlew, Golden Plover, Merlin, Ring Ouzel, early returning Wheatear and even a stunning full white Ermine!). These proved very popular in 2023 & 2024 and are likely to book up quickly.
Need To Know
Some walking on established paths but some on open and often very wet ground. We wont be walking big distances but with a challenging terrain and some relatively sharp ascents a reasonable level of fitness, as well as waterproof clothing and footwear, is a must.
Please note that due to the nature of the terrain and weather conditions at that time of year all Mountain Hare walks may be subject to postponement or cancellation if walking conditions look unsafe.
Price:£20 per person
Date:09/03/2025
Time:7:00 am
Duration:3 - 4 hours
'Discover Mountain Hares' Walk 2 *FULLY BOOKED*
Description
Did you know that the Dark Peak area of the Peak District holds the most southerly population of Mountain Hares in the UK?
One of only three native animals to turn white in Winter, the Mountain Hare (Lepus Timidus) was once found over much of Britain but was thought to have died out around 6000 years ago. The current population was reintroduced to the Peaks and much of Northern England in Victorian times by sporting estates for shooting (a practice that thankfully no longer takes place), but whilst the reintroduction was unsuccessful elsewhere a population became established in the Dark Peak. There are thought to be around 2500 Mountain Hares remaining in the Peak District.
Our Mountain Hare walks are always one of our most one of our most sought after tours and we are pleased to confirm that this year we will be running a mixture of both private walks and two fixed date ‘Discover Mountain Hares’ walks where we’ll visit some prime Hare habitat, talk about the biology and history of Mountain Hares in the Peak District and look for tracks and signs as well as try to locate the Hares themselves (along with any other upland winter wildlife which in 2023 & 2024 included Ravens, Red Grouse, Kestrel, Curlew, Golden Plover, Merlin, Ring Ouzel, early returning Wheatear and even a stunning full white Ermine!). These proved very popular in 2023 & 2024 and are likely to book up quickly.
Need To Know
Some walking on established paths but some on open and often very wet ground. We wont be walking big distances but with a challenging terrain and some relatively sharp ascents a reasonable level of fitness, as well as waterproof clothing and footwear, is a must.
Please note that due to the nature of the terrain and weather conditions at that time of year all Mountain Hare walks may be subject to postponement or cancellation if walking conditions look unsafe.
Price:£20 per person
Date:29/03/2025
Time:6:30 am
Duration:3 - 4 hours
The Best of North Notts - Group Walk 1 *FULLY BOOKED*
Description
Offering very different landscapes and atmosphere from its near neighbour to the west, North Nottinghamshire is a haven for wildlife offering some of the best areas of woodland, wetland and lowland heath in the midlands. On this two stop tour we'll visit a great cross-section of these key habitats and see some fantastic wildlife.
We'll start our walk amongst the famous woodland of Sherwood Forest, where craggy ancient Oaks, towering Beeches and a host of other deciduous and coniferous trees mean this woodland is incredibly species rich. At Sherwood you still stand a good chance of seeing all three native breeding woodpecker species in one day and the amount of standing dead and dying wood mean this is one of the last remaining strongholds of the endangered Lesser Spotted Woodpecker. Our early Spring walks will be timed to try to find this tiny, sparrow sized woodpecker which can be spotted drumming high in the canopy before the new flush of leaves block our view. As well as woodpeckers early spring can be a good time to connect with Marsh Tit, Jay, Nuthatch as well as early returning warblers like Chiffchaff and Blackcap.
Leaving the woodland behind we will walk the short distance north to RSPB Budby Forest South. Despite the 'woodland' sounding name Budby is in fact one of the best tracts of lowland heath in the country, a very special landscape which some fantastic species call home. Linnet, Yellowhammer, Stonechat and Green Woodpecker are all resident with Common Crossbill present in the Spruce plantations edging the heath. There is a chance of Little Owl too, whilst Kestrel, Raven, Buzzard and Red Kite are all regular. In early spring Budby is filled with the wonderful sound of Woodlarks and this species will be one of our key targets as it gives it beautiful, lilting song from the tops of scattered trees or in a spiralling song flight, just joyous to hear! Its not just birds though as a warm morning at Budby might see us encounter basking Common Lizard while Roe Deer are regular and Stoat possible.
We'll then travel a short distance into an area of North Nottinghamshire known as 'The Dukeries' where we'll visit a spot overlooking a tract of woodland which offers a good chance of spotting a variety of raptor species on the wing. Buzzard and Red Kite are almost guaranteed along with regular views of Sparrowhawk, Kestrel and occasional Peregrine but our target in early spring visits will be Goshawk with late February and March a great time to watch these huge accipters in display above their conifer wood haunt. Raptors aside the area also offers the chance of Skylark, Grey & Red-Legged Partridge as well as Brown Hare, I've also encountered Hawfinch here in March!
Need To Know
Some driving required between our parking area at Sherwood (Edwinstowe) and The Dukeries. Some of the woodland/heathland paths may be muddy and/or slippy so good footwear is essential. Heavy rain or high winds might to lead to postponement or cancellation.
Price:£20 per person
Date:23/03/2025
Time:6:30 am
Duration:5 hours
The Best of North Notts - Group Walk 2
Description
Nottinghamshire is a haven for wildlife offering some of the best areas of woodland, wetland and lowland heath in the midlands. On this two stop tour we'll visit a great cross-section of these key habitats and see some fantastic wildlife.
We'll start our walk amongst the famous woodland of Sherwood Forest, where craggy ancient Oaks, towering Beeches and a host of other deciduous and coniferous trees mean this woodland is incredibly species rich. At Sherwood you still stand a good chance of seeing all three native breeding woodpecker species in one day and the amount of standing dead and dying wood mean this is one of the last remaining strongholds of the endangered Lesser Spotted Woodpecker. Our early Spring walks will be timed to try to find this tiny, sparrow sized woodpecker which can be spotted drumming high in the canopy before the new flush of leaves block our view. As well as woodpeckers early spring can be a good time to connect with Marsh Tit, Jay, Nuthatch as well as early returning warblers like Chiffchaff and Blackcap.
Leaving the woodland behind we will walk the short distance north to RSPB Budby Forest South. Despite the 'woodland' sounding name Budby is in fact one of the best tracts of lowland heath in the country, a very special landscape which some fantastic species call home. Linnet, Yellowhammer, Stonechat and Green Woodpecker are all resident with Common Crossbill present in the Spruce plantations edging the heath. There is a chance of Little Owl too, whilst Kestrel, Raven, Buzzard and Red Kite are all regular. In early spring Budby is filled with the wonderful sound of Woodlarks and this species will be one of our key targets as it gives it beautiful, lilting song from the tops of scattered trees or in a spiralling song flight, just joyous to hear! Its not just birds though as a warm morning at Budby might see us encounter basking Common Lizard while Roe Deer are regular and Stoat possible.
We'll then travel a short distance into an area of North Nottinghamshire known as 'The Dukeries' where we'll visit a spot overlooking a tract of woodland which offers a good chance of spotting a variety of raptor species on the wing. Buzzard and Red Kite are almost guaranteed along with regular views of Sparrowhawk, Kestrel and occasional Peregrine but our target in early spring visits will be Goshawk with late February and March a great time to watch these huge accipters in display above their conifer wood haunt. Raptors aside the area also offers the chance of Skylark, Grey & Red-Legged Partridge as well as Brown Hare, I've also encountered Hawfinch here in March!
Need To Know
Some driving required between our parking area at Sherwood (Edwinstowe) and The Dukeries. Some of the woodland/heathland paths may be muddy and/or slippy so good footwear is essential. Heavy rain or high winds might to lead to postponement or cancellation.
Price:£20 per person
Date:05/04/2025
Time:7:00 am
Duration:5 hours
Availability:1 places remaining
Best of the Dark PeaK
Description
A wonderful walk taking in sections of classic Dark Peak habitat such as gritstone edge, open moor and sections of stunning hanging Oak woodland.
Previous walks have regularly encountered Ring Ouzel, Tree Pipit, Cuckoo, Stonechat, Whinchat, Redstart, Pied Flycatcher, Willow Warbler, Skylark, Red Grouse, Curlew, Golden Plover, Snipe, Lapwing, Oystercatcher, Common Sandpiper, Wheatear, Buzzard, Kestrel, Red Kite, Common Lizard, Oil Beetle, Green Hairstreak and Green Tiger Beetle. With the chance of Mountain Hare, Merlin, Hobby and Goshawk.
One of our most popular walks and not to be missed!
Need To Know
The weather can be very changeable in the Dark Peak in Spring so come prepared – poor visibility or heavy rain may lead to a postponement/cancellation – Some paths are steep and may be slippy but don’t worry we’ll take our time. A reasonable level of fitness is recommended for this walk and is not suitable for those with mobility issues.
Price:£20 per person
Date:27/04/2025
Time:6:30 am
Duration:5 hours
Availability:6 places remaining
Spring Birdsong Walk @ High Leas Farm, Riber
Description
Come and join us on the weekend of International Dawn Chorus Day with an easy, early morning ramble around our exciting regenerative farming project with our experienced guide, Antony.
We'll be listening and looking out for some of the amazing bird species that call the farm home as well as learning more about bird song and getting some tips on how to identify birds by their calls and songs.
At this time of year bird song is at its peak as male birds defend territories and uncoupled birds continue to try to attract mates. At High Leas our year round resident species have been joined by a host of summer visitors with some star turns such as Redstart, Tree Pipit, Spotted Flycatcher, Garden Warbler and Cuckoo joining the soundscape and allowing some great views too! Last year also saw a male Pied Flycatcher take up residence in the farm buildings for a few weeks - will be lucky enough for it to return?
This is an ideal walk for anyone wanting to learn a bit more about bird song and identification or those just wanting to enjoy a lovely stroll in the countryside to a glorious soundtrack.
Tea and coffee will be available on our return to the farm and is included in the price.
Tickets for this walk are available directly from Heartwood SFC (High Leas Farm) on the following link:
https://www.tickettailor.com/events/heartwood/1523419
Need To Know
Please dress for the great outdoors and wear sturdy footwear as we will be walking over potentially uneven ground. Bring binoculars if you have them but additional pairs will be available to borrow if needed.
Price:£10
Date:03/05/2025
Time:7:00 am
Duration:3 hours
Availability:8 places remaining
Best of the Dark Peak
Description
A wonderful walk taking in sections of classic Dark Peak habitat such as gritstone edge, open moor and sections of stunning hanging Oak woodland.
Previous walks have regularly encountered Ring Ouzel, Tree Pipit, Cuckoo, Stonechat, Whinchat, Redstart, Pied Flycatcher, Willow Warbler, Skylark, Red Grouse, Curlew, Golden Plover, Snipe, Lapwing, Oystercatcher, Common Sandpiper, Wheatear, Buzzard, Kestrel, Red Kite, Common Lizard, Oil Beetle, Green Hairstreak and Green Tiger Beetle. With the chance of Mountain Hare, Merlin, Hobby and Goshawk.
Stunning views throughout - one of our most popular walks and not to be missed!
Need To Know
The weather can be very changeable in the Dark Peak in Spring so come prepared – poor visibility or heavy rain may lead to a postponement/cancellation – Some paths are steep and may be slippy but don’t worry we’ll take our time. A reasonable level of fitness is recommended for this walk and is not suitable for those with mobility issues.
Price:£20 per person
Date:22/05/2025
Time:6:30 am
Duration:5 hours
Availability:6 places remaining
Summer Butterfly & Bird Walk @ High Leas Farm, Riber
Description
Come and join for a summer wander around our wildflower rich meadows as we look for many butterfly species that call the farm home.
Our guided butterfly walks over the last two years have seen us enjoy brilliant views of several stunning species including Dark-Green Fritillary, Common Blue, Wall Brown, Small & Large Skippers, migrant Painted Ladies and good numbers of Small Copper amongst lots of commoner butterflies such as Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper, Speckled Wood, Peacock, Red Admiral and Ringlet.
Whilst keeping our eyes open for butterflies we will also be looking for the fantastic range of bird life that use the farm. Both our resident and migrant species will be coming to the end of their breeding seasons with the latter, including our stunning Redstarts and Flycatchers, feeding young and fattening themselves up ready for the southward migration in early Autumn. Young raptors will be on the wing by now too, their noisy food begging betraying their presence in the woods and hedgerows and with a bit of luck we may see four or five species during our walk.
We’ll be walking at the fabulous High Leas Farm, Riber – this exciting regenerative farming hub with its fantastic mix of woodland, grassland, hedgerows and scrub is the perfect place to enjoy a great variety of butterfly and bird life.
Tickets for this walk are available directly from Heartwood SFC (High Leas Farm) on the following link:
https://www.tickettailor.com/events/heartwood/1261664
Need To Know
Meet at 9:15am for a 9:30 start. The walk will last around 3 hours.
Please dress appropriately for the weather and wear sturdy footwear. We will be walking on mown paths but over potentially uneven terrain.
Price:£10
Date:19/07/2025
Time:9:30 am
Duration:3 hours
Availability:8 places remaining
Autumn Fungal Foray @ High Leas Farm, Riber
Description
Come and join us for a fun and relaxed wander around the farm as we look for the myriad of strange and colourful fungi that emerge around the woods and fields in Autumn.
From the bright red Fly Agaric that appear amongst the birches in our woodland to the Inkcaps, Puffballs and Earth Stars along the tracks and rides to the Bonnets and Waxcaps growing in the grassy fields - the sheer number and variety of mushroom and toadstools (the fruiting or reproductive bodies of larger, incredibly important underground organisms) can be quite staggering and a real eye opener! We'll record the species we find (which will be a valuable contribution to our baseline surveying of the nature of the farm) and the walk will hopefully leave you wanting to find your own fungi and learn more about these fascinating organisms.
Whilst we are walking we'll keep our eyes peeled for the other Autumnal wildlife on the farm - Redwing & Fieldfares are arriving from Scandinavia and will be taking advantage of any Hawthorn, Holly and Rowan berries available whilst noisy Jays forage for acorns and Bullfinch numbers increase as the birds take advantage of the plentiful grassland seeds available. Roe Deer can sometimes be seen in the fields and woods and Autumn is the best season to encounter two of our three mustelid species - with both Weasel & Stoat hunting around the farm.
Tickets for this walk are available directly from Heartwood SFC (High Leas Farm) on the following link:
https://www.tickettailor.com/events/heartwood/1523423
Need To Know
Meet at 8.15am for a 8.30am start - approximate duration 3 hours
Please dress for the great outdoors and wear sturdy footwear as we will be walking over potentially uneven ground.
*Please note this is not a foraging walk - we will not be picking any Fungi or providing advice or opinion on edibility*
Price:£10
Date:18/10/2025
Time:8:30 am
Duration:3 hours
Availability:8 places remaining
