The Best Birdwatching Spots in England
With its wonderfully diverse habitat and abundance of bird life, England has something to offer everyone from the birdwatching novice to the dedicated twitcher. From fantastic public bird reserves managed by the WWT and the RSPB, to tranquil islands teeming with life, grab your binoculars and head to one of these top birdwatching destinations.
Farne Islands, Northumberland
Farne Islands, Northumberland
The Northumberland coast is a birdwatcher’s paradise, and it’s the Farne Islands, scattered just a couple of miles offshore from Seahouses, that is the place to go for seabirds. During summer the islands are home to over 150,000 pairs of seabirds, with over 23 different species. The islands are famous for their puffins, but you can also spot large colonies of shag, guillemots, kittiwake, black-headed gulls and terns.
RSPB Minsmere, Suffolk
If you want to get the whole family involved, pay a visit to this fantastic coastal nature reserve. There are short, buggy-friendly walks, as well as longer, wilder trails for the more adventurous. Minsmere offers something different for the birdwatcher with every season. In springtime, explore the woods and see if you can catch a glimpse of a nightingale or great spotted woodpecker. Then in autumn, marvel at the never-ending stream of migrating birds passing through.
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Uncover my top 3 recommended places from each continent on the map.
CentralAmerica
1. Guatemala
An express adventure for those with limited time off. Prepare yourself incredible experiences. You will hike a volcano, visit mayan temples and witness a ceremony and take in beautiful colonial Antigua.Next
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2. Belize
A quick trip not too far away for those seeking a relaxing mini break. You will have plenty of free time to relax but also some awesome activities to experience the rainforest and the caribbean sea. Next
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3. Mexico
An exciting mini trip exploring the lesser known colonial towns of central Mexico. This is hte perfect trip for someone with limited time off and still wants to turn on explorer mode and do something different. SouthAmerica
1. Ecuador
A remarkable 8 days adventure through the Andes and the Amazon rainforest. The best choice for adventure seekers wishing to visit the 2 most iconic areas of South America, in only 1 week and no flights.Next
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2. Peru
An alternative itinerary to classic Peru, from Cusco to Arequipa. This itinerary is great combination of highlights Cusco and Machu Picchu with the lesser known Arequipa and Colca Canyon. Europe
1. Italy
The ultimate Italian experience from the vibrant streets of Naples to the breathtaking sceneries of the Amalfi Coast followed by Matera and down to Puglia with its golden beaches, intense flavours and fascinating destinations.Next
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2. Scotland
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3. Portugal
A wonderful train journey around Portugal, from the romantic city of Porto to the Douro Valley, to the beautiful Aveiro all the way to Lisbon and Sintra. The perfect trip to train, culinary and culture lovers. Asia
1. South Korea
Discover incredible temples, mountains and modern cities on this 10 day adventure. This trip is perfect for those seeking immersion in the cuisine, culture and natural wonders of South Korea.Next
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2. Thailand
From Bankgok to Angkor Wat to Ho Chi Minh City and everything in between - adventure through the heart of South-East Asia. Taste the delights, see history brought to life and unwind on a Mekong River cruise. Next
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3. Sri Lanka
A fantastic adventure that showcases Sri Lanka's fantastic landscapes, wildlife and flavours. With 3 epic rail journeys, 3 UNESCO heritage sites and time to relax, this trip has loads to offer at a great price Africa
1. Morocco
An epic journey across Morocco: from Casablanca to Marrakech, through the blue city of Chefchaouen to the wonders of the desert and deep to the High Atlas Mountains - this trip has it all! Ideal for true explorers!Next
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2. Egypt
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Rutland Water Nature Reserve, Rutland
Rutland Water Nature Reserve, Rutland
Covering 1,000 acres of reservoir shoreline and shallow water lagoons, the Rutland Water Nature Reserve is one of the most important wildfowl sanctuaries in the country. Perhaps its biggest draw is that the reserve is home to the first Ospreys to breed in England for over 150 years – visit between April and September for your best chance to see one for yourself.
Rutland Water Nature reserve, Egleton, Oakham LE15 8BT
Isles of Scilly, Cornwall
Isles of Scilly, Cornwall
In south-west England, off the Cornish coast, you’ll find these outstandingly beautiful islands. The Isles of Scilly are home to a fantastic number of native bird species including song thrushes, sparrows and blackbirds; as well as hosting some exotic visitors like cuckoos, wheatears in the summer. The islands also attracts seabirds throughout the year, and is the only English breeding colonies of manx shearwater and storm petrel.
Slimbridge Wetland Centre, Gloucestershire
The Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust centre has something for everyone. Children will love the colourful flamingos (Slimbridge is the only place in the world you can see all six species of flamingo), as well as their chance to hand-feed the ducks, geese and swans with grain available from the visitor centre. The more dedicated birdwatchers can head out into the wetlands reserve and visit one of the hides for a chance to spot kingfishers, starlings and Bewick’s swans, amongst many others.
RSPB Rainham Marshes, Rainham
RSPB Rainham Marshes, Rainham
You don’t even have to leave the capital to get your birdwatching fix. Rainham Marshes, one of the very few ancient landscapes left in London, was taken over by the RSPB in 2000 and has been transformed from an old military firing range into an important haven for nature. The medieval marshes, right next to the River Thames are home to breeding wading birds in spring and summer, wild ducks in winter and a stunningly diverse range of rare birds and birds of prey.
RSPB Rainham Marshes, New Tank Hill Road, Purfleet, Rainham RM19 1SZ
Shapwick Heath National Nature Reserve, Somerset
At the heart of the picturesque Somerset Levels and Moors you’ll find Shapwick Heath – a National Nature Reserve made up of wildflower meadows, fern woods and open water fringed with reed beds. Over 64 different species of birds nest at Shapwick, including Cetti’s warbler and great-crested grebes. However, from November to February it’s one of the best places in the country to see huge, swirling flocks of starlings as they come to roost.
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