We're now taking bookings for our ‘Inspired by nature’ workshop day; a combination of activities designed to get you closer to nature and behind the scenes at the reserve but also to explore your creative side with a choice of workshops.
In the morning, you’ll have the opportunity to get closer to nature, with the chance to use special equipment and get ‘behind the scenes’ as our expert team takes you on a guided walk visiting exclusive parts of the reserve. Depending on the wildlife highlights we could be unpacking a moth trap, searching for small mammals and reptiles or heading to the wetlands to take a look at the migrating waders.
Canary-shouldered thorn by Pete Hughes
You'll then have the choice of attending a nature photography workshop with professional tutor John Dominick (www.facebook.com/JohnnieDPhoto ), who has exhibited at Kew Gardens and been published widely. John will help you make the most of your camera and encourage you to develop your composition skills and creativity.
Banded demoiselle by John Dominick
Or else take a creative writing workshop with Tiffany Francis https://tiffanyfrancis.com/about Hampshire-based author of “Food You Can Forage” and upcoming book "Dark Skies" where Tiffany writes about her travels around Britain and Europe learning more about nocturnal landscapes and humanity’s connection to the night sky. Through a series of different writing exercises, Tiffany will help you to celebrate nature and express your connection with the surrounding landscape. A picnic lunch will be provided.
After your workshops we’ll enjoy a delicious early supper in the cafe before heading out and experiencing the reserve after dark with a night-time safari in search of bats, owls and other night-time creatures and (weather permitting) star-gazing in this International Dark Skies Area.
Barn owl by Howard Kearley
Our 'inspired by nature' workshop day is being held on Saturday 14 September from 10 am until 9 pm. Booking is essential - please contact the Visitor Centre on 01798 875851
Cost: £125 per person / £100 for RSPB members