Located within the Arun Valley in West Sussex, Pulborough Brooks has beautiful views across to the South Downs and is set in one of the richest areas for nature in the country. The nature reserve has a great variety of habitats and is home to some wonderful wildlife. The visitor centre has fantastic views across the wetlands, a wonderful backdrop as you browse the shop or enjoy a slice of cake in the cafe.
This summer, we invite you and your family to have a wild time and discover some of the creatures we are giving a home to on the reserve. We have a great program of events coming up in July and August that will bring you closer to nature.
Have you ever camped out in a wildflower meadow, scooped a newt and seen bats catching moths for dinner, all in one night? You can do all of this and more at our ‘Big Wild Sleepout’ on Friday 27 and Saturday 28 July. This is an exclusive opportunity to spend the night in nature’s home on our beautiful reserve, and witness the fabulous wildlife that comes out after dark. We'll be meeting the creatures who lurk in our ponds, encountering marvellous moths, detecting brilliant bats, going on a mousehunt and then enjoying hot chocolate and marshmallows under the stars. In the morning, enjoy a scrumptious breakfast before we end with a surprise activity. More details for these event can be found here: https://ww2.rspb.org.uk/reserves-and-events/events-dates-and-inspiration/events/details.aspx?id=tcm:9-276470
Every Wednesday in August we’ll be running a different activity for families on our ‘Wild Wednesday’ event. We could be ditch dipping, searching for mammals or going on a snakehunt. We’ll also be running our popular ‘Pondemonium’ and ‘Bughunt’ events throughout the month which guarantee you an up-close-and-personal experience with all sorts of marvellous minibeasts!
Get closer to creepy crawlies at 'Bughunt'!
Will you find one of our special Great Crested Newts?
Become a wildlife detective
Our ‘Young Photographer’s Workshop’ on Friday 3 August is ideal for the budding photographers in your family. This is a great opportunity for 8 – 14 year olds to learn how to use a camera, how to find wildlife and how to take a great photo! Local photographer John Dominick will be leading the workshop, giving your child a chance to learn useful tips and tricks from a pro. Spaces on this event are limited and booking is essential. https://ww2.rspb.org.uk/reserves-and-events/events-dates-and-inspiration/events/details.aspx?id=tcm:9-409028
If you still want to experience nature at night but don’t fancy camping (totally understandable – there’s nothing like your own bed!) then our ‘Night-time Safari’ on 18 August is for you. As the sun sets, we’ll lead your family on a walk in search of bats, moths and other mysterious creatures. You’ll even be treated to hot chocolate and nibbles along the way! https://ww2.rspb.org.uk/reserves-and-events/events-dates-and-inspiration/events/details.aspx?id=tcm:9-369356
Make friends with our marvellous moths
To book an event, please call our visitor centre on 01798 875851. For full details on all of our events, please visit https://ww2.rspb.org.uk/reserves-and-events/find-a-reserve/reserves-a-z/events.aspx?reserve=Pulborough%20Brooks
As well as our events, there are plenty of other activities to keep you and your little ones entertained as you explore the reserve this summer. Look out for the activity boxes dotted round the nature trail, each containing something fun to have a go at, and make sure you test out our fantastic adventure playground before you go!
Many of our events and activities count towards the Wild Challenge, a fun way to help wildlife, explore nature and enjoy lots of wild, fun family activities; you can even win awards! Find out more about the Wild Challenge here: https://www.rspb.org.uk/fun-and-learning/for-families/family-wild-challenge/?utm_source=promotions&utm_campaign=wildchallenge