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Go wild in the country: 10 of the best UK wildlife holidays

Whether it’s walking or whale watching, put nature in the spotlight with a wonderful country break

Rewilding retreat, Cairngorms

Discover the richness of Scotland’s wildlife on a week-long tour, focusing on the rewilding programmes that are opening up across the Highlands. The trip offers the chance to see red kites – recently reintroduced to the region – bottlenose dolphins and ospreys, as well as watching pine martens from a private hide. Visits to remote crofts include talks on rewilding and time with a ranger at the Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve, home to white-tailed eagles and red deer. The trip can also be booked as a private tour. The six-night trip costs £1,395pp, including accommodation, all meals and a guide; wildernessscotland.com

Minibeast trips, Surrey

The Field Studies Council specialises in natural history days and experiences for schools, and also offers structured family holidays, based in FSC accommodation. Their three-night Minibeasts, Mice and the Mole weekend gives kids the chance to go river-dipping, set traps for small mammals (before releasing them) and hunt for minibeasts, with plenty of time to explore the beautiful countryside around Box Hill. A three-night break, departing on 28 October , costs £130 for adults/£100 for children, including all meals and activities; field-studies-council.org

Dolphin tours, Cardigan Bay

Home to one of the largest dolphin populations in Europe, the 60-mile stretch of Cardigan Bay is populated by 250 of the aquatic mammals. Bay to Remember runs dolphin-watching trips from April to October, from a quick one-hour trip to a more in-depth two-hour experience that offers the best chance of seeing dolphins. Longer trips take in Cemaes Head, home to a grey seal population, and all offer the chance to see the guillemots, razorbills and cormorants that nest above the bay. Stay at the nearby Red Lion, which has simple but comfortable rooms from £80 B&B ( redlioncardigan.co.uk ). One-hour dolphin trips from £26pp; baytoremember.co.uk

Seal spotting, Farne Islands, Northumberland

One of the most wildlife-rich corners of England, this small group of islands off the Northumberland coast is home to thousands of grey seals and seabirds, with dolphins skimming through the surrounding waters. Billy Shiel’s Boat Trips offers a variety of experiences, from 90-minute seal-spotting excursions to longer cruises, taking in the smaller islands, including the mythical Lindisfarne. Stay at the Joiners Arms in Newton-by-the-Sea, which has opulent doubles from £190 B&B ( joiners-arms.com ). Seal cruises £20pp ( farne-islands.com )

Badger watching, Dorset

Notoriously difficult to spot, a badger seen in the wild is an unforgettable experience. Two specially designed hides at Badger Watch Dorset offer one of the best chances of seeing one. Each hide can be booked privately for up to eight people, from 6.30pm until the lights are shut off at midnight. Alongside badgers, the hides offer a good chance of seeing foxes, deer and rabbits. Stay in nearby Dorchester, where the King’s Arms offers chic rooms from £105 B&B. Hides cost £80 (1-4 people); £120 (5-8 people); badgerwatchdorset.co.uk

Bird watching, Norfolk

The skies over Norfolk teem with birdlife from August through to November, when the autumn migrations see dozens of species, from sandpipers and egret to ibis and owls, pass over the coastline. Norfolk Birding offers a three-night birdwatching break each month, with accommodation in a traditional farmhouse and trips each day to different areas of the county. Walks take in the salt marshes and sand dunes, with more than 100 bird species usually recorded over the weekend. A three-night birding weekend costs £390pp based on two sharing; norfolkbirding.com

Red Stag Safari, Exmoor

See one of nature’s most majestic species roaming free across open moorland on a half-day safari to some of the wildest, most stunning parts of Exmoor. The safari offers the chance to see both red deer stags and other species from the comfort of a Land Rover, with plenty of opportunity to get out of the vehicle to enable better viewing. Book room at the Exmoor Forest Inn, where the cosy dining room offers produce from the pub’s own farm. Doubles from £113 B&B ( exmoorforestinn.com) . Red Stag Safari £75pp; redstagsafari.co.uk

Seabirds and whales, Yorkshire

Once famous for its whaling fleet, the Yorkshire coast is one of the best places in England to spot Minke whales, who appear in late summer, following the mackerel shoals. Yorkshire Coast Nature runs daylong guided boat tours from Staithes, combining time on shore to familiarise the group with the variety of local sea birds, with up to six hours on the water, spotting whales, bottlenose dolphins and harbour porpoise. Shorter, four-hour “twilight” trips are also available. The Royal George is a classic fisherman’s pub in Staithes, with three comfortable rooms from £100 B&B ( theroyalgeorgestaithes.co.uk ). Day trips £90pp; yorkshirecoastnature.co.uk

Wild Islay kayaking, Hebrides

The southernmost of the Inner Hebrides, Islay is as famous for its wildlife as its whisky, due to its varied habitat of wet grassland, moorland, bog and lochs. One of the best ways to explore the coastline – and spot some of the many bird species, otters and seals that call the island home – is by kayak, which move silently through the water without alarming nearby wildlife. Kayak Wild Islay offers three-hour or full-day guided trips, taking in hidden coves, long sandy beaches and hidden ancient sites. Stay at Glenegedale House, an award-winning B&B with four boutique-hotel standard rooms from £210 B&B ( glenegedalehouse.co.uk ). Full day kayaking £80pp/half-day £60pp; kayakwildislay.co.uk

Puffins, Puffin Island, Anglesey

Puffin Island, at the north entrance to the Menai Straits, is a bird sanctuary and nesting site for many species of birds, and seals and porpoises are often spotted in the sea. It is the perfect place to spot the Atlantic Puffins – they arrive in April to nest and are here until the end of July when their pufflings are independent. Seacoast Safaris offers a range of trips and there are boats available for private charter. The Bull in Beaumaris is a classic coaching inn with chic rooms from £121 B&B ( bullsheadinn.co.uk ). A two-hour Puffin Island & Menai Strait cruise costs £38pp; seacoastsafaris.co.uk.

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UK Day Trips

UK Day Trips Led by Expert Naturalists

Our portfolio of Day Trips visit a wonderful selection of reserves and habitats across the UK, each guided by one of our expert naturalist tour leaders, many of whom are guiding you on their own ‘local patch’! Meeting at around 9am, and exploring largely on foot until around 5pm (though note that specific Day Trip timings do vary slightly by location and season), these trips are designed to spend a full day out in the fresh air, in search of a wide range of special British wildlife.

Whether you would like to explore a new area in the company of a local, expert naturalist tour leader, try a guided wildlife day out for the very first time, or perhaps you simply wish to spend the day learning more about your own local wildlife, you will find yourself most welcome on one of our Naturetrek Day Trips. We also offer days out specifically aimed at beginner birders and amateur wildlife photographers, and some trips even extend after sunset to allow us to take you on a guided tour of the night skies above. Whatever the trip focus – be it birds, botany, fungi, photography, butterflies, dragonflies, geology or a mix of just about everything – your leader will take you to the very best places to search for wildlife, and will share their knowledge generously along the way.

Map of all Day Trips

Featured uk day trips.

Rockpooling in Northumberland (Day Trip)

Surrey - The Butterflies & Orchids of Box Hill (Day Trip)

Fungi for Beginners on the Norfolk/Suffolk Border (Day Trip)

Snorkel Safari & Fish Photography with Jack Perks (Day Trip)

The New Forest (Day Trip)

The Cotswolds - Exploring the Painswick Valley (Day Trip)

The idea of day trips during these Covid restrictions is brilliant. There’s a good range to choose from, all over the country. They are clearly described and easy to book – and excellent value. All of the tour leaders we’ve had are at the top of their game – not only are they expert naturalists, but they are well organised, know the area, and are very good interacting with the guests.

How to Book

The price for all our standard Naturetrek Day Trips is  £50 per person  and payment is by debit card only. You can book online, or you are very welcome to book over the phone by calling us on 01962 733051. Some Day Trips operate seasonally, and we are continuing to add additional departure dates for our fully booked Day Trips, so if you would like to be added to our wait list for any of these trips please just email  [email protected]  or register your interest via the tour page.

Joining Instructions for Day Trips

• Upon booking we will email you with a designated meeting point and confirmed timings, along with contact details for your tour leader.
• During some Day Trips we will each use our own vehicle to move the short distances in between sites (group transport is not provided).
• Please do not bring your dog, or other pets, as they may disturb the wildlife!
• Please bring your own lunch.
• Please bring plenty of water, snacks, hand sanitiser, tissues, your own face covering (should you wish to wear one for entering toilets, visitor centres etc.) along with anything else that you might need for the day. You will need to be able to carry everything yourself. Suitable footwear (walking shoes or walking boots) will be essential, along with sensible layers and waterproofs plus sun hat and sun cream or woolly hat and gloves etc., depending on the weather forecast.
• Wherever possible, we will try to arrange comfort breaks during the day. On some of our more remote Day Trips this isn’t always possible, and on those occasions you will need to be prepared for the odd ‘bush stop’! If this is likely, we will alert you in the joining instructions beforehand. Please be stringent with hygiene when using public facilities.
• Finally, please do share your photos and favourite wildlife sightings with us … we love seeing them! Tweet  @naturetrektours , Instagram  @naturetrek_wildlife_holidays  or find us on  facebook.com/naturetrekwildlifeholidays

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Helping you observe and conserve wildlife!

British wildlife breaks, w elcome to our showcase of day trips and short breaks that we design for some of the places where fantastic wildlife can be seen in britain. greenwings was founded in the united kingdom and we love to promote the natural treasures that can be found on these shores., all day trips and tours are led by one of our enthusiastic and knowledgeable guides, such as writer and naturalist patrick barkham, photographer & film maker jack perks , photographer/artist/polymath victoria hillman, author & orchid addicts sean cole & mike waller, and other superb all-round naturalists like terry goble and kat dahl. , we can also provide you with bespoke day trips or longer tours, more or less anywhere in the uk. this might be to see or photograph one or more specific species, which we’d be happy to arrange. , please get in touch to discuss your requirements and we’ll do our very best to help. , orchids of the cotswolds, dates: 1st & 2nd june 2024 confirmed departure, price per day: £125 full, price for both days: £200.

Enjoy a day out (or two!) in the beautiful Cotswolds with Britain’s Orchids author & naturalist Sean Cole

Swallowtail Butterflies & The Norfolk Broads

Dates: 7th – 10th june 2024 confirmed departure, price: £895 full, single room supplement:  £75, deposit:  £150 per person.

Explore the tranquil Norfolk Broads with Patrick Barkham for the iconic Swallowtail & other delights on this short summer break! 

Swallowtails & more in the Norfolk Broads

Dates: 11th june 2024 confirmed departure, price: £150 full.

A day trip to explore the tranquil Norfolk Broads with Patrick Barkham for its iconic Swallowtail & lots of other wonderful wildlife!

Spring photography Workshop: Orchids & Butterflies

Dates: 17th june 2024, price: £125 places available.

A creative and fun photography workshop in Somerset with professional photographer Victoria Hillman

Sussex Butterflies: Black Hairstreak & Dark Green Fritillary

Date: 21st june 2024 confirmed departure, price: £75 places available.

We invite you to join us for a summer day out in Sussex, looking for Black Hairstreaks & other butterflies!

Sussex Butterflies: Purple Emperor & other woodland wonders!

Date: 3rd july 2024.

A summer day trip in Sussex for butterflies, with a focus on Purple Emperor & other woodland wonders such as White Admiral & Silver-washed Fritillaries!

Sussex Butterflies: Purple Emperor & other Summer Butterflies!

Date: 4th july 2024 confirmed departure.

A summer day trip in Sussex for butterflies, with a focus on Purple Emperor, plus other woodland and heathland butterflies & plenty of other wildlife

Macro Photography Workshop

Dates: saturday 13th & sunday 14th july 2024, location: scotland places available, price per day: £125 or £200 for both days, a one or two day macro photography workshop with photographer & buglife ambassador paul fraser, dates: saturday 27th & sunday 28th july 2024, sussex butterflies: brown hairstreak & summer blues, date: 16th august 2024 confirmed departure.

We invite you to join us for a summer day out in Sussex, looking for Brown Hairstreak, Silver-spotted Skipper, Adonis Blue, plus other butterflies!

Shooting Shrooms in Somerset! A fungi photography workshop

Date: 14th october 2024.

A fun & creative wildlife & macro photography workshop with professional photographer Victoria Hillman

Shooting More Shrooms in Somerset! A fungi photography workshop

Date: 21st october 2024 confirmed departure, sussex butterflies: duke of burgundy & pearl-bordered fritillary, date: 14th may 2025.

We invite you to join us for a spring day out in Sussex, looking for Duke of Burgundy, Pearl-bordered Fritillary, Grizzled & Dingy Skippers, plus other butterflies!

Orchids of The Emerald Isle

Dates: 17th – 21st may 2025, price: £1,250 places available, single room supplement: £150.

An exclusive five-day trip, led by authors of the highly-acclaimed “Britain’s Orchids” to the orchid-rich country of Ireland!

Orchids of The Emerald Isle II

Dates: 21st – 25th may 2025, latest news.

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Britain's best wildlife holidays

Unwind and immerse yourself in the natural world this year – from spotting otters to kayaking with puffins and catching a glimpse of a minke whale, here is our pick of the UK's best wildlife watching holidays. 

It’s the sense of anticipation that gives me the biggest thrill, says writer James Fair. Whether I’m back on a familiar Scottish island or the Pembrokeshire coast, or in uncharted waters, I look around and wonder – what will I see?

That’s why I cannot wait for my next wildlife holiday – not for the opportunity to tick a new species or to explore new horizons, but to wallow in expectation and hope. It’s not even “What will I see?”, but “How do I feel?” That’s all that matters.

From spotting otters to kayaking with puffins and catching a glimpse of a minke whale, here is our pick of the UK's best wildlife watching holidays.

UK's best wildlife holidays

Spot otters, isle of mull.

“CLUNK!” The sound of our eight-year-old clattering over an upturned kayak surprised my partner and I and caught the attention of the otter that had been swimming just metres away – so close, I’d been counting the whiskers on its face. Our son had a few precious moments to focus on the beast before it duck-dived, furry tail following toothy face into the loch’s dark depths.

While staying on the Ross of Mull for a week, we saw the otter five times. Thanks to the terrible weather, I spent hours gazing out at the loch, hopefully mistaking everything from seals to random waves for everyone’s favourite marine mammal. And, some of the time, I spotted one. At which point, I booted the household outside with as many binoculars as we could muster. It became not just any common-or-garden otter – it was our otter.

Not for nothing has Mull earned a reputation as Britain’s wildlife capital. On Loch na Keal, white-tailed eagles swoop silently to pluck mackerel from the water metres from your boat. On the Sound of Mull, we watched 15 bottlenose dolphins work their way towards Tobermory. We’ve seen grey seals in abundance, and golden eagles mob ravens. Near Loch Frisa, our then-three-year-old was blissfully unaware of almost stepping on an adder. The Isle of Mull – where snakes in the grass and otters in the loch are absolutely free.

Further information

• The Old Church, Pennyghael (above)has three bedrooms; from £575 a week. isleofmullcottages.com/cottage/the-old-church

• Mull Charters runs white-tailed eagle trips; £45pp. mullcharters.com

More related content:

• Britain’s best alternative holiday ideas
• Britain’s best seal watching spots and how to avoid disturbing the colony
• Britain’s best winter wildlife spectacles

Bird-spot by bike , Shetland Islands

Arctic tern Sterna paradisaea, adult in flight, Shetland/Credit: RSPB Images

Pedalling slowly through a summer mist in a remote part of Yell (the island north of Shetland’s Mainland), I became aware of the excited screams of dozens of Arctic terns (pictured). By chance, I had stumbled upon a small breeding colony. That’s Shetland for you – wildlife in droves where you least expect it. On the west side of Mainland, there were 70 or more oystercatchers in a single field and, later, I caught two or three ‘surfacings’ of a minke whale. Once you get a few miles outside Lerwick there’s not much traffic; if you leave the main roads, there’s none. None of the hills are very big but the terrain undulates. So take it easy – the slower you go, the more you’ll see.

• Islesburgh House Hostel, Lerwick, has beds from £17 per night. shetland.gov.uk/islesburgh/Hostel.asp

• North Link Ferries from Aberdeen to Lerwick; adults from £22, bicycles travel free. northlinkferries.co.uk

Kayak with puffins Skomer Island, Pembrokeshire

Watching puffins on Skomer is delightful, and there is something extra special about leaving the land and the crowds behind you and taking to the water with these marine birds. My partner and I spent a day paddling around the island with Martin Leonard of Sea Kayak Guides, watching the vast rafts of puffins, guillemots and razorbills whiling away the hours between fishing trips, while keeping an eye out for porpoises. Departing from Martin’s Haven, the whole adventure – including an hour’s sojourn on Skomer itself – takes 4–5 hours. If you have any energy the following day, walk a circuit of the headland on the coastal path – the section to Marloes Sands, especially, is good for wildflowers, butterflies and kestrels.

• Monk Haven Manor, St Ishmaels has double rooms from £100. monkhaven.co.uk

• Runwayskiln does fabulous food. runwayskiln.co.uk

• Sea Kayak Guides offers wildlife tours from £95 per person per day. seakayakguides.co.uk

Whale watch, North Yorkshire

It’s no exaggeration to say the three hours I spent watching minke whales off the coast of Staithes was one of the best wildlife experiences of my life. The minkes come here in August to feed on herring, and while they may not breach in the style of exuberant humpbacks, to be surrounded by six or seven for several hours is unforgettable. Extend your wildlife adventure with a nightjar safari or some spectacular gannet action at Bempton Cliffs.

British marine life

Learn all about Britain's dolphins, porpoise and whales – including identification, the best places to see them and boat excursions – with our guide to the UK's most common cetacean species.

Read our guide to Britain’s dolphins, porpoise and whales, including how to identify and best places to to see

• Endeavour, Staithes, is a restaurant with rooms; doubles from £100. endeavour-restaurant.co.uk

• Yorkshire Coast Nature runs brilliant whale trips; £90 per person. yorkshirecoastnature.co.uk

Spirits of the forest Cairngorms, National Park

You could spend a week in the Cairngorms and not exhaust its wildlife attractions. My absolute must-dos would be the hide on Rothiemurchus Estate, where pine martens are regular visitors, and the osprey centre at RSPB Loch Garten. A trip up Cairngorm Mountain to see ptarmigan is essential, as is a morning walking through Caledonian Pine Forest in Glenmore for red squirrels, crested tits and crossbills. For a native species now technically extinct in the UK, visit Cairngorm Reindeer Centre, where a small herd roams semi-wild.

Best walks in the Cairngorms National Park

The Cairngorms teems with towering trees, shimmering lochs and busy wildlife. Take a hike through this vast, untamed area of Scotland with our list of the area's best walks.

View Cairngorms walks

• Speyside Wildlife can do tailor-made trips, from £195 for the day (up to seven people). speysidewildlife.co.uk

• Cairngorm Lodge Youth Hostel is in an idyllic forest location. Bed in shared room from £19; private room £45. hostellingscotland.org.uk/hostels/cairngorm-lodge

Spot peregrine falcons, North Norfolk

Peering up at Norwich Cathedral’s 95m-high spire through a spotting scope, my eyes were met by the steely gaze of a peregrine falcon. It was a female keeping an eye on her chick, which was just days from fledging. Throughout the breeding season (March–July), the Hawk and Owl Trust has a tent in the grounds with volunteers on hand to help you spot the birds. Nearby Strumpshaw Fen is a haven for Britain’s largest butterfly, the swallowtail, while down the coast, Havergate Island is home to terns and docile brown hares to complete the weekend.

• Norfolk Mead Hotel has double rooms from £135. norfolkmead.co.uk

• Hawk and Owl Trust, hawkandowltrust.org

Dolphin Days, Cardigan Bay

Does anything make people smile more than a wild dolphin – especially one spotted just half an hour or so outside the bucket-and-spade seaside town of New Quay? A mother and her calf breaking the surface in perfect synchrony is one abiding memory. Take a walk along the coast path for choughs – crows with orange-red legs and bills.

• Fforest has bell tent, crog loft, dome or farmhouse accommodation; from £180 for two nights. coldatnight.co.uk

• Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre Learn to spot marine wildlife; free entry. welshwildlife.org

Butterfly Heaven, the Cotswolds

The distinctive, steep-sided valleys of Rodborough Commons and Minchinhampton are rich in rare butterflies, including Adonis and large blues (pictured). Visit Clattinger Farm in Cotswold Water Park, too, for spectacular orchids, while in April, North Meadow is home to an estimated 1.5 million snake’s head fritillaries. Cycle along quiet country lanes while admiring the Cotswold landscape.

Guide to British butterflies: how to identify and the best places to spot

Britain has around 60 glorious butterfly species. Here is our expert guide on where to see and how to identify British butterfly species.

View our butterfly guide

• Lower Mill Estate has holiday lets with wildlife in mind. habitatescapes.com

• Cotswold Electric Bike Tours offers tours from £80. cotswoldelectricbiketours.co.uk

Hare and harriers, Forest of Bowland, Lancashire

My first ever sighting of England’s rarest bird of prey, the hen harrier (pictured), was the reward for a trip to Bowland’s rugged fells more than a decade ago, plus a short-eared owl, curlews and other waders and remarkably tame brown hares. Far more wildlife here than the comparably sterile Lake District.

• The Inn at Whitewell is an elegant rural inn with 23 bedrooms. Double rooms from £214. innatwhitewell.com

• Cobble Hey Farm is a working farm near Garstang with gardens, café, walking routes and a wetland bird reserve. Adults £5; children £4.50. cobblehey.com

Underwater Adventure, South Dorset

Strap on your mask and snorkel to spot ballan wrasse up to 50cm long, blennies and brown crabs on the Kimmeridge Bay snorkel trail. It might not be the Maldives, but I found it hugely rewarding. You can hire snorkel kit from the Wild Seas Centre. Nearby Arne RSPB Nature Reserve has all six native reptile species, while Charmouth along the coast is the UK’s fossil capital.

More information

• Smedmore House can sleep up to 16 people. From £4,150 for a week. smedmorehouse.com

• Wild Seas Centre is located at Kimmeridge Bay.

100 Great Wildlife Experiences: What to see and Where, by James D Fair is out now (Pen & Sword, £25)

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Small group birding tours to over 70 global destinations plus a UK portfolio specialising in Norfolk

From the Isles of Scilly to Shetland, we have a UK birding holiday for everyone. Don’t miss our Birding Diary Blog of tour highlights!

Whether it’s enjoying Spring migration in the Mediterranean or birding the tropical forests of Panama, we can take you there!

We have a reputation for providing the best tour leaders, adept at finding you the birds and managing tour logistics with ease

The best itineraries for  birding in Britain and beyond are right here! Join us and find out why we’ve got an unrivalled track record for finding rare and scarce birds

From custom day tours in Norfolk to your dream overseas birding holiday

World-class trips with renowned experts in the Isles of Scilly, Madeira, South Africa and New Zealand

Welcome to Oriole Birding

Oriole Birding offer birdwatching tours and wildlife holidays worldwide, including a comprehensive range of UK birding tours specialising in Norfolk. We hope you will agree that our tours offer the complete bird tour package, and we are confident that there is a birding trip here to suit everyone. Whether you are after a short break enjoying winter wildfowl on the Norfolk coast or an exciting birding adventure to an exotic overseas destination, you will find something in our portfolio to suit your needs. We hope that you find our new website easy to use with tours listed by date and location. We keep our website up to date with news from recent tours, video clips and posts about what we have seen out in the field. We are also active on Twitter (follow us @OrioleBirding). Don’t forget that we also offer tailor-made trips if the tour we offer doesn’t quite work for you.  We look forward to seeing you soon on a birding adventure!

We are a family owned and run business based in beautiful North Norfolk where we are very lucky to live. An established company of 20 years, we pride ourselves on providing expert but friendly guides (including the owners Ashley and Nick) who will work hard to ensure that you see the birds you want to whilst having fun in a relaxed atmosphere – it is a holiday after all! We always aim to use the best accommodation in each area we visit, combining good food, amenities and location. It is our expert, reliable and friendly service, with an easy booking process, seamless logistics and pre-tour service (spearheaded by Jane), that keeps our many regular clients returning year on year.

We also think that it is the personal touch that has allowed Oriole Birding to flourish in what is a very competitive industry. Emerging from the challenging times of the Covid pandemic with a rebrand and new website, our company continues to go from strength to strength. 

Oriole Birding is an environmentally active company; wildlife and the climate are in trouble and we are doing our bit to help. We support our local wildlife group in our home village of Great Ryburgh and are managing wildlife friendly habitat on several acres of land around our office where we also have a rewilding project in process!

Forthcoming Tours

Tailor-made tours with oriole birding, namibia – birding the skeleton coast & etosha, north ronaldsay – autumn migration, norfolk butterflies & dragonflies, norfolk shorebird spectacular, featured locations, oriole birding news, birding diary – orkney & north ronaldsay may 2024, birding diary – outer hebrides, may 2024, oriole birding video blog, see our latest video content below.

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We’ve updated the Birding Diary from our first couple of days on Orkney where todays migrant-hunting produced Garden Warbler, Lesser Whitethroat, Red-backed Shrike and Redwing and we enjoyed more SEOs, Hen Harriers and this superb Arctic Skua https://www.oriolebirding.com/category/birding-diary/

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All the flights and flight-inclusive holidays on this website are financially protected by the ATOL scheme. When you pay you will be supplied with an ATOL Certificate. Please ask for it and check to ensure that everything you booked [flights, hotels and other services] is listed on it.

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Birdwatching & wildlife tour calendar.

Our departures for the next six months are shown below.

New Wildlife Tours

New Wildlife Tours - journey into the natural world

New Wildlife Tours offers a selection of day trips to see wildlife, landscapes and archaeology in the South West and selected areas. Tours are available to some of Britain's best wildlife sites such as the South West Coast, Somerset levels, the Cotswolds and Wiltshire's nationally important chalk downland.

All trips are expertly guided and take you to the best sites to ensure you a memorable wildlife experience. Tours focus on all aspects of nature although some tours have a specific interest such as birds, plants and butterflies. We generally visit a couple of different sites during the day but are not rushed and usually involve slow paced gentle walks.

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June trip to Wiltshire and Gloucestershire to see Dragonflies

June trip to Wiltshire and Gloucestershire to see Butterflies

July trip to Kent to see Kent's rare orchids and arable plants

Wildlife Photography Trips in United Kingdom

New Forest Deer Photography Workshop

Our one-day New Forest deer photography workshop will provide fantastic opportunities to capture images of predominantly fallow and red deer, however roe deer may also be seen. We will aim to spend half the day focusing on fallow deer and the other half with the red deer, depending on sightings and locations. Find out more about New Forest Deer Photography Workshop

• Price (exc. flights) : 1 day from £185
• Trip type : Group Tour Tailor-made can be arranged

Scotland Winter Wildlife Photography

On this tour to Scotland’s Cairngorms National Park, we aim to photograph some of Britain’s iconic wildlife, including mountain hares, red deer and red squirrels, at the height of winter. The Scottish Highlands in winter are inspiring whilst also providing incredible opportunities for wildlife photography. Find out more about Scotland Winter Wildlife Photography

• Price (exc. flights) : 8 days from £2,295
• Trip type : Group Tour

Red Squirrel Photography Workshop in Yorkshire

The Yorkshire Dales National Park is a haven for red squirrels in the North of England. Join us on this 3-day photography workshop led by Kevin Morgans, where there will be multiple opportunities to seek and photograph these incredible creatures in the best light, alongside other mammals and birds. Find out more about Red Squirrel Photography Workshop in Yorkshire

• Price (exc. flights) : 3 days from £995

Red Kite Photography Workshop

Join wildlife photographer Sean Weekly in the heart of Mid Wales, at the famous Gigrin Farm, for a unique red kite photography workshop. During your afternoon at Gigrin, you have exclusive use of a specialist-built hide and will focus on photographing these remarkable raptors in-flight. Find out more about Red Kite Photography Workshop

• Price (exc. flights) : 1 day from £240
• Trip type : Tailor-made Holiday

Isle of Mull Wildlife Photography

Join us on our wildlife photography trip to the Isle of Mull where we spend time photographing the islands’ wildlife including its enigmatic puffins and spectacular white-tailed sea eagles. There’s also the chance to see seals, and cetaceans and indulge in some macro photography. Find out more about Isle of Mull Wildlife Photography

• Price (exc. flights) : 8 days from £3,495

Hampshire Bird Photography Workshop

A fantastic opportunity to practice and improve your photographic skills and capture some unique images of iconic British birds for your portfolio, including kestrels and kingfishers, on a two-day workshop in some local bird hides. A full day in each hide will maximise your photographic opportunities. Find out more about Hampshire Bird Photography Workshop

• Price (exc. flights) : 2 days from £450

Red Kite & Night Sky Photographic Workshop

The secluded Elan Valley in Wales is the location for this unique photographic workshop. During our four-day itinerary we will enjoy sessions of wildlife and night sky photography to not only improve your skill by learning new techniques, but also to create a wonderful portfolio of images. Find out more about Red Kite & Night Sky Photographic Workshop

• Price (exc. flights) : 4 days from £1,295

North Atlantic Adventure with Mark Carwardine

Join conservationist and broadcaster Mark Carwardine on the voyage of a lifetime as we sail from Scotland to the icy realms of Svalbard. During the voyage we’ll visit prime sites in the North Atlantic and Arctic Ocean as well as a host of remote islands, all of which are home to intriguing wildlife. Find out more about North Atlantic Adventure with Mark Carwardine

• Price (exc. flights) : 17 days from £8,495
• Trip type : Voyage

Festival of British Wildlife

The spectacular Scottish Highlands provides the ultimate setting for our Festival of British Wildlife. Join some of the world’s leading naturalists and wildlife photographers for exclusive use of Aigas Estate on this trip for both photographers and non-photographers as we observe Britain's most iconic species. Find out more about Festival of British Wildlife

• Price (exc. flights) : 8 days from £3,295

Macro Photography Workshop

Macro photography allows you to explore your surroundings wherever you are. With subjects ranging from fungi, flowers and insects, our wildlife photographers will teach you how to take interesting photographs from a unique perspective whilst developing macro techniques during this full-day workshop. Find out more about Macro Photography Workshop

• Price (exc. flights) : 1 day from £150

Skomer’s Perfect Puffins

The Welsh island of Skomer off the Pembrokeshire coast is home to one of the UK’s largest breeding colonies of Atlantic puffins and Manx shearwaters. Join us on this three-day trip where there will be countless opportunities to photograph these seabirds at the height of the breeding season. Find out more about Skomer’s Perfect Puffins

• Price (exc. flights) : 3 days from £825

Shiant’s Spectacular Puffins

Join photographer Kevin Morgans in the Shiant Isles where puffins and seabirds breed in their thousands and the surrounding waters are home to a variety of whales and dolphins. On this photographic workshop, we develop our skills and portfolio whilst enjoying a remote and rugged archipelago. Find out more about Z) Shiant’s Spectacular Puffins

• Price (exc. flights) : 5 days from £1,995

Isle of Mull Wildlife Photography in Autumn

Join us on a wildlife photography holiday to the Isle of Mull in autumn, specifically timed to witness the spectacle of the red deer rut and the vast numbers of pupping Atlantic grey seals. Amongst stunning autumn colours we also hope to photograph otters, white-tailed and golden eagles. Find out more about Z) Isle of Mull Wildlife Photography in Autumn

• Price (exc. flights) : 8 days from £2,795

Badger Photography Workshop

For this workshop with wildlife photographer Nick Garbutt we have exclusive use of a purpose-built hide in a secluded valley in the mid-Devon countryside. This gives us intimate access to the badgers that inhabit an extensive and long-established sett – it has been there for well over 20 years. Find out more about Z) Badger Photography Workshop

• Price (exc. flights) : 2 days from £395

Exmoor – Red Deer, Ponies & Night Skies

Explore the Exmoor National Park in search of wildlife and photographic opportunities in the company of acclaimed wildlife photographer Nick Garbutt. During our time in this unique landscape, we hope to capture images of majestic red deer, the iconic ponies, rugged landscapes and dramatic night skies. Find out more about Z) Exmoor – Red Deer, Ponies & Night Skies

• Price (exc. flights) : 3 days from £750

Bugs ‘n’ Beasts Indoors: Photography Workshop

Using captive-bred subjects like mantids, scorpions and spiders, this workshop recreates the experience of photography in a rainforest or tropical habitat. Join award-winning wildlife photographer Alex Hyde in Worcestershire as he introduces and explains the principles and techniques. Find out more about Z) Bugs ‘n’ Beasts Indoors: Photography Workshop

• Price (exc. flights) : 2 days from £575

Pembrokeshire Coast Photo Workshop

The Pembrokeshire Coast offers a wealth of wildlife and tremendous photographic potential. Our aim with this workshop is to combine macro and landscape options along the coast and sea shore, whilst enjoying some wildlife photography on board our exclusive boat charter. Find out more about Z) Pembrokeshire Coast Photo Workshop

• Price (exc. flights) : 5 days from £1,495

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Welcome to Heatherlea, your natural destination for wildlife!

Birding & wildlife holidays in scotland and worldwide, heatherlea are your natural choice  we specialise in friendly holidays to see birds and mammals in the wild. our fully inclusive tours include comfortable en-suite hotel accommodation, all food, transport and the services of top quality experienced leaders. everything you need.

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Just a quick note to thank you and all the staff at Mountview Hotel for a lovely trip. We greatly enjoyed the week we had with our guides and fellow birders. They worked really hard to get us the target species and we had great views of Golden Eagle, Black Grouse, Black-throated Diver and many others. We were also very grateful for the lengths that that the cooks and serving staff went-to, catering for my food allergies. Their hard work was very much appreciated, thank you. Mr & Mrs H

My husband and I took our first birding tour with Heatherlea Tours. Everyone associated with the company and the hotel were first rate. They made us feel comfortable and welcome. Our tour guide was excellent and has a keen knowledge of not only the local birds but all manner of wildlife. We can absolutely recommend Heatherlea Tours and will keep them in mind for our next birding tour. Mr & Mrs H

We thoroughly enjoyed the trip. It was a very friendly group and both guides were really good, it was just a pity the weather was a bit off at times. I want to thank all at Heatherlea for the very efficient way the trip was organised and run. It was our first trip with you and is unlikely to be our last. Mr W

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Mull Wildlife Tours Isle of Mull Wildlife on Mull

Discover the Magic of Mull

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If you’re itching to explore the stunning wildlife and breathtaking scenery of the Isle of Mull, look no further than WildlifeonMull. We’re here to give you an experience like no other, where you can immerse yourself in the magic of this beautiful island.

Our tours are popular, so it’s best to secure your spot early. Don’t miss out on the chance to witness Mull’s incredible wildlife up close and personal—book now to avoid disappointment!

Your guide for the day is Andrew, a true islander with over 30 years of experience living on both Ulva and Mull. With a background in Ecology and Wildlife Management, Andrew is the perfect person to lead your tour. His expertise ensures that your day with us will be not only informative but also enjoyable and unforgettable.

Whether you’re joining us for a scheduled day tour or prefer a private bespoke trip, Andrew is excited to welcome you aboard this year. So, pack your sense of adventure and get ready to discover the wonders of Mull’s natural world with WildlifeonMull!

Experience the magic of Mull’s wildlife with our expert guide.

From the start of the season till mid May, we will be using our catamaran, Celtic Adventurer, for most of our Corryvreckan wildlife tours.

CORRYVRECKAN WILDLIFE TRIPS

A fantastic, 2 hours, general marine wildlife tour….

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WHIRLPOOL SPECIAL

See the corryvreckan whirlpool at its best, during the big spring tides….

CORRYVRECKAN WILDLIFE & WHALES TOUR

A 3 hour tour in our traditional boat to see thse magnificent animals….

IONA & STAFFA & PUFFIN COLONY

Full day trip to iona with plenty of time ashore to enjoy the abbey…, private charter, our high speed boats are available for private charter from easdale, oban or from any point throughout the argyll…, welcome to seafari adventures.

Seafari Adventures offers exceptional wildlife and nature boat trips to see whales, porpoises and sea birds from our base at Easdale, Oban, Scotland. Experience the Gulf of Corryvreckan, home of the World’s Third Largest Whirlpool.

We are Oban’s original Visit Scotland 5 Star accredited marine wildlife tour company and specialise in offering a unique combination of high adventure and pure exhilaration with the excitement and sheer pleasure of close encounters with Scotland’s magnificent sealife and scenery.

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Our tours are a well managed wildlife experience ensuring maximum enjoyment for customers whilst also recognising the importance of minimum disturbance to nature and wildlife..

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Wildlife Holidays & Tours

Specialist in tailor made safari wildlife holidays

Founded by conservationist and biologist, Allan Blanchard, in 2000, Wildlife Trails specialises in tailor-made wildlife holidays and bespoke safaris to the world’s best wildlife watching countries. Our wildlife trips are designed by expert safari consultants who have visited the destination multiple times. We started with our wildlife tours and tiger safaris to India, which focused on longer stays in the parks, ethical wildlife viewing and giving something back to the local communities. For each new booking we donate £100 to wildlife warriors in the field, including Gorilla Doctors, Panthera and the Raincoast Conservation Foundation. Making sure you enjoy an amazing tailor-made safari holiday means everything to us and our 100% customer rating with AITO shows that we deliver. Dream it and then live it with Wildlife Trails!

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We had a two week holiday on Vancouver Island.. we went on a whale watching tour and saw Orcas, Humpbacks, Dahl porpoises, white striped Dolphins, seals and Sea lions. We then did a Grizzly bear r and saw lots of Grizzlies as well as loads of Black Bears. The highlight of the holiday was a three day kayaking trip which was fantastic. Kayaking with Orcas and Humpback whales was incredible Our holiday was completely organised by Wildlife Trails, and I can’t recommend them highly enough.. everything was planned to perfection and they made the entire holiday exactly what we asked for

We had a 13 day tour to India, mostly wildlife as this was what we wanted and a little element of city & culture. Day in Delhi staying at the Imperial, apart from noisy traffic getting to the el it was an iconic place to be, so much hitory and staff who had been there 30yrs and proud of what they did. then onto 5 days at Ranthambor - 2 incredible Tiger sightings with so many other species, onto Agra and the Taj Mahal and then the Saptura National Park. Great time was taken in the planning, we were given lots of options as to how to make the trip up including time of year and how to maximize wildlife sighting.

The main part of the trip was gorilla trekking in Uganda and Wildlife Trails had organised this very well and provided me with a comprehensive list of what to take which was great. The lodges were ely and seeing the other animals in Queen Elizabeth National Park, brilliant. Wildlife Trails organised the trip, including my flight very well. They also booked a hotel for me in Entebbe for the first and last night before flying home.

A 7 night stay at Katmai Wilderness Lodge which was amazing both for accommodation, food, very friendly and helpful staff and of course seeing bears in their natural habitat. A 4 night stay in eau which included a visit to Pack Creek where we had good sighting of bears and 2 Whale Watching tours where we saw Humpbacks and seals and Stellar Sealions. Wildlife Trails a small family concern run by Allan and Kirsty Blanchard. Very efficient and helpful. Listened to what we wanted and put together a good itinerary.

We went to Alaska, which Wildlife Trails sorted out for us. I chose Wildlife Trails because Allan was more knowledgeable than others I emailed, and more helpful. We went to Anchorage, Seward, er, Nikiski, Kodiak and Katmai. At Nikiski we stayed at Daniels Lake Lodge B&B in a log cabin by the lake. It was an amazing place and was the wildest and most remote of our journey. We saw a black bear and 3 coyote on the road. Had a great day out with Alaska West Air near there. We had bears right beside our boat at Big River Lakes near Wolverine Creek, saw bald eagles and plenty of salmon in the river. They gave us a scenic flight on the way back flying right over double glacier and its ice field - so close we almost landed on it. Really breath-taking. We booked up Juneau Mendenhall Glacier Ice Adventure Tour ourselves through Alaska Shore Excursions - local tour operator was Liquid Alaska Tours. This was excellent. We did canoeing, went in an ice cave under the glacier and used crampons to climb on top of it. A fantastic day out. Would recommend these. Also had a great day out at Brooks Falls watching the bears catching the salmon that were jumping up the waterfall. Well worth the trip. Wouldn't recommend Jayleen's Alaska whale watching trip. We didn't see anything but a lighthouse for most of the morning. Cost us a fortune for 6 hours when we saw more on the 2 hour cruise with Alaska Tales for a fraction of the cost. These are a new company. We didn't have many on the boat so didn't have to fight the crowds to see the whales and they took us straight to them so didn't waste any of our time. To see black bears close up we went to AnAn Bear observatory. A mother and cub came very close to where we were standing on a platform. At the other places we saw brown bears. A great trip all in all. As I stated above Wildlife Trails are very knowledgeable and helpful. They always replied quickly to any emails I sent asking them a lot of questions (some I should have been able to work out myself). When we had problems they were always contactable to help us sort them out. The ferry they booked for us went on strike but Wildlife Trails had sorted us out a flight in its place before we even knew there was a problem, so the holiday ran very smoothly. I would recommend Wildlife Trails to anyone and I have already booked another trip with them next year.

How the UK's 'fastest' rollercoaster came to a halt

N amed after the daughter of a Greek god, who is said to have built herself steel wings before launching herself off a high mountain, the UK’s tallest rollercoaster opened to much fanfare last Friday.

Hyperia , which stands at 263ft (80m) - the equivalent to a high-rise apartment block - and can travel at 81mph (130km/h), was dubbed a “marvel of engineering” by its creators at Thorpe Park.

But within a day of offering thrill-seekers an opportunity to experience the feeling of weightlessness as they hurtle around its 168ft (51m) loop, the ride had come to a screeching halt.

Thorpe Park said a temporary closure followed “standard technical pre-opening procedure checks”, and has so far been unable to confirm it will reopen before 8 June.

The closure of the ride which is reported to have cost £18m and Thorpe Park says is the UK's tallest and fastest, is not only a blow to the theme park and its owners, Merlin Entertainments, but coaster enthusiasts who have been gearing up for the opening since it was announced nearly three years ago.

“Thorpe Park hasn’t had a new rollercoaster in 12 years,” said Bee Moore, a college student from Camberley, Surrey, who visits the park twice a month with an annual pass.

“With it being the tallest and fastest, there’s a thrill element to it that I was just really excited to experience.”

Moore had been on their way to the park for their 18th birthday on 25 May, the day after the ride opened , when they saw the closure on social media. “It was very disappointing,” they added.

Jack Rowbotham, a 20-year-old computing student from Northamptonshire, had booked a weekend in Surrey with a friend to experience Hyperia.

Also a passholder, he has been going to Thorpe Park about five times a year since 2018, but said the new rollercoaster was “different to anything we’ve seen in the UK”.

Mr Rowbotham said they began queuing two-and-a-half hours before the park gates opened, with around 200 other people on 25 May when they heard the news.

“I was gutted. I think the overall atmosphere was disappointment,” he said.

But he is also sympathetic to the theme park. “A lot of people who go quite often to theme parks know that it’s one of those things. It’s not always guaranteed that a ride is going to open,” said Mr Rowbotham.

Both he and Ms Moore will be going back to the park at the earliest opportunity to try out Hyperia.

Thorpe Park also offered those who’d pre-booked on 25 May a free return visit, while those pre-booked up to 7 June are able to change their booking for a later date.

Though he was yet to hear back about changing his booking for 3 June, Liam Atkins, a 31-year-old IT worker from Essex, said he assumed the park had been “inundated with emails”.

In the meantime, he is keeping his disgruntlement about the situation between himself and his partner. “He’s already sick and tired of hearing it,” he said.

Thorpe Park said it would "continue to do everything in our power to open the ride earlier".

It added that it was "really sorry for the disappointment we know this will cause".

It’s not the first time a rollercoaster in the UK has experienced issues. The Smiler, at Merlin-owned Alton Towers, was beset with issues within the first two years of its opening.

Justin Garvanovic, founder of the European Coaster Club, said that “teething problems” were also not uncommon, “especially huge record breakers… when they’re pushing the envelope a bit”.

While Thorpe Park has not disclosed the reasoning behind Hyperia’s closure, Mr Garvanovic said that there were a “million things” that could potentially cause issues.

“It’s a complex machine. There’s three computers all talking to each other for a start, and they have to agree on everything,” he said.

Andy Hine, chairman of the Roller Coaster Club of Great Britain, echoed this line of thought.

He is currently in the United States where he was set to ride on Top Thrill 2 at Cedar Point in Ohio - billed as the world’s tallest rollercoaster - which was also recently opened and abruptly closed due to a “mechanical failure”.

But he was lucky enough to have experienced Hyperia at a launch party last week. “The speed that it comes down the twisting first drop was very, very fast,” he said.

“It’s got lots of airtime, which is what coaster enthusiasts like - that feeling of being out of your seat like when you’re going over a humpback bridge in your car. It was very exciting."

He added that for Thorpe Park, one fortunate “side effect” of the current situation could be that when Hyperia reopens, there’ll be even more hype.

“There will only be a [few people] who’ve been on it, and if you look online, of course people are boasting that they’ve ridden it!”

Follow BBC Surrey on Facebook , on X . Send your story ideas to [email protected] or WhatsApp us on 08081 002250.

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• UK's tallest rollercoaster opens in Surrey
• UK's tallest rollercoaster could remain shut for two weeks
• UK's tallest rollercoaster shuts after one day

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Final preparations underway for Starliner launch from Florida’s Space Coast

A beach hazard statement in effect for coastal volusia region, crews monitoring area in merritt island wildlife refuge after lightning strike sparks wildfire, burn ban in effect in brevard county.

Haley Coomes , Digital Content Producer

MERRITT ISLAND, Fla. – Firefighters are monitoring a marsh area in Merritt Island Wildlife Refuge after a lightning strike caused a fire Saturday afternoon.

A severe thunderstorm warning was in effect for Brevard County when lightning struck. Crews responded to Peacocks Pocket, just west of the Kennedy Space Center, near the A. Max Brewer Bridge. As of Monday, the fire remained contained within the boundary of the impoundment and it is estimated at around 2,500 acres.

All access roads to Peacocks Pocket reopened Monday. Those roads were West Gator Creek, Gator Creek, East Gator Creek, and Catfish Creek.

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Titusville firefighters said no homes were impacted by the fire and no injuries have been reported.

The fire comes as a burn ban is in effect in Brevard County. Drought conditions, increasing temperatures, dry vegetation, and high wind gusts leave much of Florida vulnerable to wildfires..

Lighting strike at Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge

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Haley is a digital content producer for ClickOrlando.com and first started as a News 6 producer in October 2014. She's a graduate of Indiana University with a Bachelors of Arts degree in journalism. She specializes in theme parks and lifestyle writing.

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10 of the best days out to treat dad this Father’s Day

Quality time with your paternal figure is a great way to celebrate this 16 june, article bookmarked.

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As the summer season slowly creeps into sight, there are just two weekends to go until it’s time to celebrate Father’s Day on Sunday 16 June.

With this inevitably comes last-minute card shopping, serious sibling negotiations on dad’s favourite beer and religiously checking the weather forecast in the run-up to the family barbeque.

If gifts prove too tricky and socks for the third year in a row feel like a step too far, why not give your paternal figures the gift of quality time? Food, football, booze and golf are often a good place to start – but there are also plenty of options that are a little more original. There’s whiskies to taste, tandem bikes to pedal and facials to relax dotted across the UK , along with days out doing everything from embracing the Euros to taking a steak-searing masterclass or hurtling down a zip line over a quarry in Wales .

Here are our top picks of things to do with dad for some slightly stereotypical but failsafe fun this Father’s Day.

Read more travel inspiration :

• The tiny twin-island nation that’s become a celebrity holiday hotspot
• Barcelona for Valencia and other holiday swaps to avoid the crowds
• The best family adventure holidays in Europe that adults, teens and kids will love

Catch the first UEFA Euro England match

To put your best foot forward with football-fanatic dads, the first of England’s Euro 2024 group games has fallen on Father’s Day. Bond over some sport with beers and burgers at your local from 8pm for the England v Serbia game or fire up the barbeque in the garden if the British weather is on side.

England v Serbia 8pm 16 June on BBC One

Whet your palette at a whiskey tasting

Whiskey connoisseurs (over 18) can spend the afternoon at a range of distilleries across the country this Father’s Day. To enjoy a whiskey tipple in Stourton with Dad, visit the Cotswolds Distillery for their daily hour-and-a-half cask warehouse tour and tasting session of award-winning spirits and liqueurs.

Cotswolds Distillery Tour & Tasting from £25 per person, Cotswoldsdistillery.com

Take a steak cooking class at The Langham

To fine-tune the steak skills of culinary-inclined fathers, a Shaken & Seared cooking masterclass at Sauce by The Langham promises to teach all things preparation, seasoning and sauce. With a welcome cocktail, steak dinner with wine and sharing dessert included in the class, it’s sure to get the well done from Dad.

Shaken & Seared cooking class, from £145 per person, Saucebylangham.com

Relax with a Donnington Valley spa experience

There’s an activity for every proud parent this 16 June, no matter how you choose to unwind. Treat fathers to a spa day – with a side of golf – at Donnington Valley in Berkshire for some R&R and a round of nine holes. Think energising facials, rolling countryside and a terrace bar for the ultimate family kickback.

For Men C+ 55-minute Energy Facial, £80, Donningtonvalley.co.uk

Brave a ghostly walking tour in Edinburgh

A ghoulish walk through the dark streets of Edinburgh is not one to be forgotten in a hurry. Thrill-seeking families in the Scottish capital will feel shivers down their spine on this free walking ghost tour through the Old Town, alleyways and graveyards after dark.

Free 1.5-hour ghost tour from 7pm daily with Edinburgh Free Tour, Fareharbor.com

Pedal in pairs on a tandem bike ride

Why not scrap competitive cycling sessions and take a tandem pedal through the Sussex countryside to relive arguments past on who is doing most of the legwork this Father’s Day? We forecast great views, light squabbling and a lot of laughs.

Sussex Countryside Four Hour Tandem Bike Hire, £51, Virginexperiencedays.co.uk

Fly through the sky on a Welsh zipline

Tick off a first this Father’s Day with a bucket list 100mph zipline over the Penrhyn Quarry in Bangor. With Snowdonia views and space for a family of four to fly at the same time – 700 feet high – a voucher for Zip World is a great gift for adrenaline junkies to race 1,555m to the bottom of the ‘Velocity’ line.

Zip World Velocity day flight for four people for £295, Zipworld.co.uk

Get adventurous at Lainston House

For a rustic adventure in nature, Lainston House in Winchester has a full-day itinerary including clay pigeon shooting and archery followed by a hog roast with all the trimmings on 16 June. The ‘fit for a king’ fete of activities kicks off at 10am for families to practise their aim and hit bullseye before sitting down for lunch.

Hog roast, clay pigeon shooting and archery experience, from £75 per person, Exclusive.co.uk/lainston-house

Venture off-road on a 4x4 driving experience

If fast cars are dad’s thing, an off-road G-Wagon adventure at Mercedes Benz World offers a nerve-wracking drive through a variety of terrains, inclines, water crossings and obstacles on a foot-to-the-floor 10-acre circuit in Weybridge. Whether learning the skills as a driver or feeling the thrill as a passenger, there’s something for everyone on and off the track.

4x4 G-Class Passenger Ride for three people from £40, Mercedes-benzworld.co.uk

Immerse yourselves in a virtual reality experience

Although you won’t find a journey back to Ancient Egypt on the departures board at Heathrow, at Horizon of Khufu in Westfield Stratford a virtual reality experience transports visitors into the Great Pyramid of Giza and tombs of Pharaoh Khufu. The 45-minute break from reality is great for a rainy day in London – the whole family will enjoy crawling through ancient burial chambers and navigating the Nile.

Horizon of Khufu, £21 per person, Horizonkheopsexperience.com

Read more: The best London hotels for afternoon tea

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NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

Fiona Bruce owns Nigel Farage with ‘brutal’ put down on Question Time

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Question Time got pretty heated tonight on BBC One when Fiona Bruce absolutely owned Nigel Farage .

The Reform Party honorary president, 60, was asked by the BBC presenter why he’d made multiple media appearances this week to front the party’s election campaign when he won’t be standing for MP.

He responded: ‘Don’t ask me, you invited me on the show.’

But then Fiona fired some serious shots at the former I’m A Celebrity contestant, as she replied promptly: ‘We actually asked Lee Anderson but he wasn’t available to come on.’  

Mr Anderson was a member of the Conservative Party , before he defected to Reform UK in March 2024.

Mr Farage replied: ‘I had planned to stand at the election, I had planned to have a six month run at it, but a six week run at it is virtually impossible.’

Viewers at home and the studio audience were in bits at the moment, as @daisythedonkey said: ‘Brutally funny when #Farage says; you asked me on. response; actually we wanted Lee Anderson.’

‘I am watching (curiosity got the better of me) and Fiona did tell Farage that they originally asked Lee Anderson and he was second choice, it was a wonderful put down by Fiona… she surprised me!’ said @sarah_sjr64.

Sharing the clip, @hewitson10 added: ‘Fiona Bruce sticking it to Nigel Farage in a very subtle manner, but funny “We actually wanted Lee Anderson to come on but he said no”.’

Elsewhere on the show, Piers Morgan and Mr Farage exchanged a heated moment when a member of the audience asked the latter: ‘Is the reason you’re not standing [for MP] because the last seven times you did you failed to get elected? I’m sure it’s not the case, but I just want to hear your thoughts.’

The TalkTV presenter repeatedly said, ‘You bottled it!’ as Mr Farage then accused Piers of ‘never having the bottle to stand’ before, as the journalist explained that he wasn’t a politician.

Fiona was forced to yell at the pair to stop, before they started jibing at one another about who does and does not have their own TV show.

Damian Hinds, Wes Streeting and Bishop Rose Hudson-Wilkin also appeared on the panel for discussions about the NHS, education, immigration and Rishi Sunak’s controversial national service proposal .

Mr Farage announced last week he would not be standing in the General Election but wanted to ‘do his bit to help’ Reform UK over the next six weeks.

He said: ‘I have thought long and hard as to whether I should stand in the upcoming general election.

‘As honorary president of Reform UK, I am fully supportive of Richard Tice’s leadership and urge voters to put their trust in him and Lee Anderson.

‘I will do my bit to help in the campaign, but it is not the right time for me to go any further than that.

‘Important though the general election is, the contest in the United States of America on November 5 has huge global significance. A strong America as a close ally is vital for our peace and security. I intend to help with the grassroots campaign in the USA in any way that I can.

‘The choice between Labour and the Conservatives is uninspiring, and only Reform have the radical agenda that is needed to end decline in this country.’

He has helped Donald Trump’s campaign since 2016.

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Question Time is broadcast live on BBC iPlayer at 8pm every Thursday .

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