RSPB nature reserves are teeming with nature.
Whatever the weather, our reserves are bursting with life. So wrap up warm this winter and enjoy some of the UK's best winter wildlife spectacles: from whirling clouds of hundreds of birds to fluffy white seal pups, this is the season to see nature at its wildest.
Where to explore
Our coastal nature reserves in winter host spectacular numbers of wildfowl and waders. Snettisham on the Norfolk coast is currently home to thousands of pink-footed geese and wading birds that form clouds of swarming birds as they’re pushed off the mudflats by the tide. Famously known as the ‘Snettisham spectacular’, it’s an incredible natural wildlife spectacle not to be missed.
Another top spot is Saltholme on the north-east English coast. A combination of wading birds, ducks and the heart-stopping possibility of a peregrine shooting across the sky, hunting one of these wintering birds, means you’ve got the perfect mix for an unforgettable day out. If that's not enough, the state-of-the-art visitor centre, cafe and children’s playground.
Nature’s Home Editor, Mark Ward, shared his winter highlights, recently, read his blog post for some more inspiration and wonderful winter wildlife.
But don’t just take our word for it – why not explore our reserves for yourself? There is bound to be one near you. And, as an added bonus, book a holiday cottage or lodge nearby so you can take your time and explore at your leisure.
Why not stay nearby?
Our friends at UK Nature Breaks have thousands of comfy cottages and luxurious lodges up and down the UK – many of them near our reserves. Why not take a look and find the perfect one for you – from cosy cottages for two, to large lodges for all the family, it’s all covered!
The choice of destination is yours – you could try Dorset’s Jurassic coast for a trip to Arne, the wild Scottish Highlands for Abernethy or, later in the year, the rugged Welsh coast for Ramsey Island.
If you’re not looking for ideas, try the featured destination guide. This month they’re looking at North Yorkshire. With a selection of RSPB nature reserves in the county, you’ll never be far from one.
What’s in it for me?
For every booking, UK Nature Breaks will donated 10% of the cost of the holiday to the RSPB. It’s win-win! This money goes directly to helping us save nature.
So you can relax on your holiday and visit an RSPB nature reserve while knowing that you’re helping give the nature you see there a home.
You can book your holiday home, lodge or even boat from UK Nature Breaks. Where will your adventure take you?
For more on our science, check out the RSPB Centre for Conservation Science web pages.