Across the UK, more than 600,000 people took part in the RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch 2024, with a whopping 9.7 million birds counted!
The annual event returns between January 24 and 26 and is the world’s largest garden wildlife survey.
But looking out for birds and getting involved in nature can be enjoyed all-year-round and English Heritage has plenty of locations where you can also find rare species thriving, including birds.
Hurst Castle, Hampshire.
A Tudor artillery fort built by Henry VIII and continually developed until the Second World War, it is located at the end of a mile-long shingle spit.
With the coastline part of the New Forest National Park, it is designated a ‘Special Protection Area’ meaning it is internationally important for birds.
What to spot: A relatively common bird to our coastlines, the often-overlooked rock pipets flitting around the castle walls can be seen all-year-round.
Dover Castle, Kent.
A common sight over the skies of Kent when Dover Castle’s defences were first built in the 12th century, the chough has been missing from the area for more than 200 years, due to habitat loss and historical persecution.
In recent years, the site has seen an avian success story with the reintroduction of choughs to the site.
What to spot: Captive choughs are in Dover’s aviary and working with a number of partners, English Heritage is working to restore the chalk grasslands which are important to these birds.
Kenwood, London.
This parkland is surprisingly close to the centre of London and is a Site of Special Scientific Interest. During winter the 112 acres of parkland is a great place for redwings, which are a type of thrush and rarely visit gardens, unless the weather gets really cold.
What to spot: As well as redwings, look out for fieldfares in winter and also the spotted flycatcher, willow warbler, chiff-chaff and greater spotted and green woodpeckers.
To find out more about the sites and things to do in 2025, visit english-heritage.org.uk
We’ve teamed up with English Heritage to offer 25 per cent off gift and annual memberships which gives the chance to see its sites in every season.
What’s more English Heritage membership allows every member to take up to six children under the age of 18 within the family group into any of the English Heritage properties at no extra charge.
Want to find out more? Simply click here! Use code NEWSQ25 at the checkout.
Offer ends: January 31, 2025.
T&C’s: For use on new membership purchases only. Annual direct debit only.
