Archive of RFV events
Guided walk in Collyweston Great Wood NNR
Guided walks and special events
Here's a list of previous events in Rockingham Forest.
This archive only started in March 2023 - all previous events adverts are lost
Butterfly Conservation's
winter work parties
Fermyn Woods Country Park
Sundays 26th February, 19th March 2023
Follow the link for more details and booking
Clearing scrub to improve the habitat for various butterflies including Dingy, Grizzled and Chequered Skippers. Great healthy exercise in the winter months. Good company and a real sense of satisfaction!
Butterfly and Reptile
Discovery Day
Top Lodge, Fineshade Wood
Saturday 4th March 2023, 10:30am-3:00pm
Learn about butterflies, moths and reptiles at this free drop-in, family-friendly event.
We’ll be running a moth trap and will have lots of crafts and activities to help you learn about local wildlife. If the weather is suitable, there will also be chance to go looking for reptiles.
Tree ID in winter-spring
Bedford Purlieus National Nature Reserve
Saturday 11 March 2023 10am - 12:30pm
Looking in detail at trees, in particular their shape, bark, buds, catkins as well as last year's fallen leaves
On this guided walk forester Charles Cuthbert will help us identify the species of trees on this important nature reserve. A gentle walk along woodland rides, which could well be muddy. Please email for further details and booking.
Introduction to Woodlice, Centipedes and Millipedes
Ring Haw Field Station, Old Sulehay
Sunday 12 March 2023 10am - 4:00pm
Learn the basics of how to identify these
three groups with Brian Eversham
This workshop will introduce you to these three groups, and give the basics on how to identify them. Woodlice and millipedes are important decomposers whereas centipedes are generalist predators.
Working to create improved butterfly habitat
Bedford Purlieus National Nature Reserve
Tuesday 14th March 2023, 10:00am-3:00pm
We will be clearing scrub to create a scallop along one of the woodland rides
Please let the event leader, Susannah O'Riordan, know if you’re coming along, so that we can contact you if there are any last minute changes. Email Susannah or call: 07483 039324. Location on BC website.
Restoration work on Augean site
ENRMF, Stamford Road, Kings Cliffe, PE8 6XX
Wed 22nd March 2023 10:00-12:00
Guided walk over uneven surfaces that may be muddy.
No dogs, children or wheels.
Safety clothing will be provided.
Parts of the landfill site near KIngs Cliffe have been filled and restoration work is well under way with ponds, tree planting and grassland. A great opportunity to view this work guided by Augean's ecologist.
Open basket-making studio
7-8 April 2023 9am-5pm
Old Brewery Studio, West St, Kings Cliffe
Hand made willow baskets, garden structures, basketry tools, local flowers etc for sale
Sue and Kirk grow their own willow for their products (see the blog article here). An opportunity to visit the workshop and view their produce, along with work by Justin Capp and local flowers from Foxtail Lilly.
Guided walk around the village of King's Cliffe
Wed 12th April 2023, 10:00-12:00
Learn about the history of the village that was situated in the middle of the royal hunting forest of Rockingham
Sue Trow-Smith, Chair of King’s Cliffe Heritage, will be our guide to the buildings that played an important part in the village's relationship with the surrounding forest. £3.50 donation to KCH. Please email for more details and booking.
Birdsong and Bluebell Walk
King's Wood Corby
Saturday 22 April 2023 10:30 - 12:00
A guided walk looking for flowers and listening for birds in this beautiful wood in the town. Families most welcome.
Join a member of the Wildlife Trust team and learn more about birdsong, bluebells and other spring wildlife. There is a discount thanks to funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund.
A day's walk from King's Cliffe
Sunday 23th April 2023, 9:00
Starting from Kings Cliffe Pocket Park we will spend a day exploring the Public Rights of Way that lead out from the Village.
KIng's Cliffe, PE8 6YH
Part of a series of walks led by the Parks and Woodlands Education Rangers from North Northants Council. The distance will be approximately 14.5 miles and may be subject to change. For more details and to book a place please email
Guided walk in Short Wood
Wildlife Trust Nature Reserve
Off the Oundle-Southwick Road
Wed 3rd May 2023, 10:00-12:00
Stroll around the grassy paths, led by Keith Alvey, Volunteer Warden. Donations to WT will be welcome. (Sorry no dogs)
Short Wood is a SSSI and includes managed hazel coppice and many Ancient Woodland indicator species including, of course, bluebells. There could be Nightingales singing, early butterflies, and swathes of flowers. More details of the reserve here.
"Spring in your step" walk
KIngs Wood Local Nature Reserve, Corby
Wed 3 May 2023, 10:00-11:30
Explore King's Wood LNR with Parks and Woodland Ranger, Ana Pires
Walk in a beautiful nature reserve and learn about the challenges of managing tree stock in an urban Ancient Woodland. Walk includes some boggy pathways so may not be accessible for all. Questions and booking? please contact Rebecca Jenkins by email.
A BioBlitz in Corby
KIngs Wood Local Nature Reserve, Corby
Sat 13th May 2023, - throughout the day
A BioBlitz? - an event to try to find and identify as many wildlife species as possible in a single day. Great chance to learn from experts about wildlife recording
Includes 4 guided walks focussing on plants, water bugs, flies, reptiles and amphibians. Plus hands-on sessions on using photography for recording, an introduction to microscopy etc. Details, programme, booking etc here
Identifying woodland flowers
Old Sulehay Nature Reserve near Yarwell
Saturday 20 May 2023,10am - 4:00pm
Learn how to use keys to identify woodland wildflowers and then practise in the field.
This workshop, led by Matt Johnson, will focus on the woodland flowers that bloom early in the year. The skills learnt will be generally applicable and there will be plenty of the flowering season left for practising after the workshop.
Introduction to butterflies
Old Sulehay Nature Reserve near Yarwell
Find out more about the butterfly species in Northamptonshire with the county recorder
Dave James will deal with the identification and life cycles of our butterflies and explain how to help with butterfly surveying. No experience or equipment necessary, though a pair of close-focusing binoculars will help.
Sunday 21 May 2023, 10am - 4:00pm
Hazel coppice in Rawwhaw Wood
Ring Haw Field Centre,
off Old Sulehay Road, Yarwell
Learn how to identify some of our common day-flying moths and discover how you can help by recording any moths that you see.
Moths in the day time
Friday 2 June 2023, 10am - 1pm
As well as the more common species, learn about the rare Liquorice Piercer micro-moth – a small, but beautiful day-flying moth that is best looked for on sunny afternoons flying around its foodplant, Wild Liquorice.
Talking about trees in summer
Bedford Purlieus National Nature Reserve
Saturday 3 June, 2023, 10am - 12:30pm
Can you tell your Oak from your Ash? Your Blackthorn from your Hawthorn? (both types?) And how about Wild Service?
On this guided walk forester Charles Cuthbert will help us identify the species of trees on this important nature reserve. A gentle walk, mainly along woodland rides. Please email for further details and booking.
Skipper Guided Walks
Fineshade Wood
Daily (Wednesday-Sunday) until 11th June 2023, 10:30-12:30
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Your best chance to see the Chequered Skipper Butterfly in England!
Led by Skipper Ranger, Kate McCahill, the walks will target Grizzled, Dingy and Chequered Skippers all of which are very possible. Walks are free but you definitely need to book, so follow the link for details.
Another chance to learn how to identify some of our common day-flying moths followed by a visit to Weldon Woodland park to find some.
More day-flying moths
Thursday 8 June 2023, 10:15 - 13:30
As well as the more common species, learn about the rare Liquorice Piercer micro-moth – a small, but beautiful day-flying moth that is best looked for on sunny afternoons flying around its foodplant, Wild Liquorice.
Visiting a working willow bed
North of KIng's Cliffe village
Monday 12 June 2023, 10:00 - 11:30am
Sue and Kirk invite you to see where and how the willow for their basket-making is grown. This is the site described in Kirk's blog article
We'll see where willow is grown, harvested and graded and also wander through the young coppiced woodland and meadow (there may be orchids!). There will be tea brewed on an open fire and an invitation back to the studio in Kings Cliffe afterwards. Book by email for this free unusual event.
Join the BioBlitz in Corby
Hazel & Thoroughsale Woods, next to the Boating Lake, NN17 2UN
Sat 17th June 2023, - throughout the day
A BioBlitz? - an event to try to identify as many wildlife species as possible in a single day. Great chance to learn from experts .
Includes guided walks focussing on plants, fungi, birds and insects etc. Plus hands-on sessions on using photography for recording. Come and see what you see through a microscope. Follow the link for more details
Free charcoal-making workshop
Rawhaw Wood, Pipewell, NN14 1QZ
Saturday 24 June 2023, 9:30am - 4:30pm
Find out how charcoal is made, help to load
and fire the traditional ring kiln
For anyone curious about the charcoal-making process or maybe thinking about producing their own, this day with Hugh and Carolyn is not to be missed
Train to be a River Warden
Oundle/Nassington area
Sunday 25 June 2023, 12:00-14:00
Training on the Freshwater Watch survey in the Oundle/Nassington area
Learn how to monitor water quality and identify different aquatic invertebrates. Here are more details about being a River Warden and please email Katie Field
for more about this training session
Explore Cliffe's Wildplaces
Starting from the King's Cliffe Active carpark, Kingsmead, Station Road. PE8 6YH
Sunday 9 July, 2023,10:00
Charles Tomalin will be our guide. All are welcome, including children and dogs!
A chance to see the meadows at their best, to enjoy Millenium Wood, explore the Railway Path and much more. Read details about KC Wildplaces here. Please email to book, as places are limited.
Heritage & wildlife of Ring Haw
Old Sulehay Nature Reserve, near Yarwell
Monday 10 July, 2023, 10:00 - 12:00am
The southern part of this Wildlife Trust reserve has a fascinating history and some amazing meadows that will be looking splendid in July.
Ian Hilbert, the Reserves Officer, will guide us through the old quarried areas, the calcining banks and disused railway line, where orchids, butterflies and moths now abound. Donations to WT will be welcome. Book and more details by email.
Northants Flora Group visit
Sudbourgh Green Lodge Meadows SSSI
Wednesday 19 July, 2023,
Join members of the Northants Flora Group on their visit to the largest grassland with the richest biodiversity in Northamptonshire
The group, led by County Recorders Alyson Freeman and Brian Laney, invites all botanists whether beginners or experts to join them on their outings. Please email Alyson at alysonfreeman0@gmail.com to find out more about this visit to the remote hidden meadows.
The Willow Brook and its valley
Kings Cliffe Active, PE8 6YH
Thursday 20 July, 2023, 7:30 pm
King's Cliffe Heritage invite you to hear two talks about the importance of this river that winds its way around the village.
Part 1: the river seen through the archives,
Part 2: the health and management of the river today (by Andy Sadler, Environment Agency).
KCH Members £1, Non-members £2. Refreshments £1. No need to book
Green Gardening Talks
Kings Cliffe Active, PE8 6YH
Sunday 23 July, 2023, 12:30 - 5:00pm
Three talks on gardening in a sustainable and environmentally friendly way. Plus cream teas, cakes, sausage rolls and Pimms too!
Talks on No-dig Vegetable Gardening, structures to help wildife feel at home in your garden, and five beautiful ways to support wildlife by broadcaster Nick Bailey. £10 per ticket
Looking for invertebrates
Fineshade Woods
Saturday 29 July, 2023, 10:00 -16:00
Join members of the Northants Invertebrates Group on their annual visit, particularly looking at areas of the wood near ponds.
Over the years the group have discovered many, many species of flies, aquatic invertebrates and other insects here. If you are interested in learning and taking part you would be most welcome. Please email John Showers for more information and final arrangements.
Explore Cliffe's Wildplaces
Starting from the King's Cliffe Active carpark, Kinsmead, Station Road. PE8 6YH
Saturday 29 July, 2023, 10:00
Charles Tomalin will be our guide. All are welcome, including children and dogs!
A chance to see the meadows at their best, to enjoy Millenium Wood, explore the Railway Path and much more. Read details about KC Wildplaces here. Please email to book as places are limited
Basic Ecology Skills (1)
Ring Haw Field Station, near Yarwell, PE8 6PW
BES1: Species and Habitats (including habitat classification) with Brian Eversham
the Chief Executive of WTBCN
Sunday 13 August, 2023, 10:00am - 4:00pm
Brian will present an introduction to Ecology - the study of species, and their populations and habitats. There is a discount thanks to funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund.
Haymaking Time at King's Cliffe!
Village Field near Kings Cliffe Active, PE8 6YH
Sat. and Sun. 19-20th August
2023, 10am -3pm
Come and learn to use a scythe in the traditional way as we remove the dead grass and flowers from the meadow. Many hands..!
Help manage the wonderful wildflower meadow - scythes and rakes supplied or bring your own plus gloves and suitable footwear. Contact Charles Tomalin or more details here.
Nassington Nature Walk
Old Sulehay Nature Reserve: Ring Haw
Sunday 20 August 2023, 2:30-5:00 pm
All are welcome to join this free walk around northern part of Nassington's beautiful parish. Please reserve a place
Exploring the wildlife and heritage of Ring Haw with the Ian Hilbert, the Wildlife Trust's Reserves Officer who will be sharing his extensive knowledge of the nature and history of this fascinating area
Event for Corby Families
Corby Boating Lake, NN17 2UN
Monday 21 August 2023,
10am-12 and 1-3 pm
Free Forest School for all the family. No need to book, just drop in, meeting by the Log Cabin.
There will be woodland games bug hunting, fire lighting, bush craft, natural art, den building and a scavenger hunt. Adults will need to stay with their children - great chance to experience for yourself what Forest School is all about
Basic Ecology Skills (2)
Ring Haw Field Station, near Yarwell, PE8 6PW
BES2 Habitat Management and Monitoring with Brian Eversham
the Chief Executive of WTBCN
Sunday 3 September 2023,10:00am - 4:00pm
The underlying ecological processes in managing habitat, and the basic features of the major habitat types. There is a discount thanks to funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund.
Visit landfill site at Thornhaugh
Augean site off the A47 road near Bedford Purlieus, PE8 6NH
Thursday 21st September 2023,
10:00-12:00
Guided walk over uneven surfaces that may be muddy. Safety clothing will be provided.
Come and see how modern society disposes of its waste and how this necessity can drive habitat creation A great opportunity to view this work guided by the Augean team. Please read full details -booking essential
Talk by Jeremy Purseglove
The Pavilion, Rutland Showground, Oakham
Thursday 21st September, 2023, 7pm
One of Rutland Agricultural Society's programme of autumn talks.
£5 for non-members. Refreshments provided
Jeremy is a member of the RFV Core Team and author of Taming the Flood and Working with Nature. His title for this talk is "Woods & Water" with special relevance to Rockingham Forest and its Rivers. Please email to book your seat.
Introduction to Forestry
Ring Haw Field Station, near Yarwell, PE8 6PW
Tuesday 3 October and Saturday
18 November 2023, 9:30am - 4:00pm
Two introductory courses for individuals and organisations who own or manage woodlands in the area. Tutor - Jemma Cuthbert
Courses will include basic local woodland ecology, species and habitat ID. Also management techniques such as thinning, felling, natural regeneration, replanting, coppicing, fencing & dead-hedging. Full details on the RFS website
Guided walk along
Nassington Back Channel
Fotheringhay Road, Nassington, PE8 6QU
Wednesday 11 October 2023, 10:00-12:00
The ecological status of this part of the River Nene was improved in 2020 as part of Nenescape's Resilient River Project.
As long as water levels are favourable we will see how "hinging & pinning" and other work have increased the woody habitat providing a refuge for juvenile fish and invertebrates. A 3km walk on a mixture of grass, mud and hard tracks. Booking essential and spaces limited.
Free coppicing workshop
Rawhaw Wood, Pipewell, NN14 1QZ
Find out about and take part in traditional management of coppiced woodland
Saturday 14 October, 2023, 9:30am - 4:30pm
Practical hands-on work and discussion of systems of working, production of products, marketing, the creation of dead hedges and an overview of the environmental benefits.
Augean site Open Day
ENRMF, Stamford Road, Kings Cliffe, PE8 6XX
Saturday 14 October 2023, 10:00-13:00
Augean's open days offer a good opportunity to see how a modern engineered landfill operates and to tour the site by vehicle
Never attended the annual open day? It is well worth spending an hour visiting the exhibition and laboratory, talking to staff and seeing progress with the original and new parts of the complex. No need to book. More details 01780-723827 or by email.
Identification and surveying of small mammals
Learn how to capture and identify small mammals with Peter Pilbeam
Sat. and Sunday 21-22 October 2023,
Evening and morning workshops sessions including a session on British mammals in general, methods of study (including owl pellet analysis) and on small mammal surveying using traps. Booking essential
Finding fungi in Corby
Wednesday 18 October, 2023, 10:00 - 12:00
These Ancient Woodlands in the centre of Corby are brilliant for wildlife of all kinds, and could be great for fungi at this time of year
We'll start at the carpark by the boating lake and explore the woodland areas led by volunteer, John Haughton who has a passion for fungi of all sorts. This is a small-group walk so booking by email is essential please.
Talk by local author and conservationist Mark Avery
St Mark's Church Hall, 82 Lincoln Rd, Peterborough PE1 2SN
Wednesday 25th October 2023, at 7:30pm
Organised by Peterborough Bird Club
Mark will be talking about his new book, "an informed, incisive and passionate commentary on the state of nature and conservation." Nature-loving non-members welcome. Follow the link for more detalls.
Training for River Wardens
An introduction to helping to monitor your local river, stream or brook
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Saturday 28th October 2023,10am -12pm
You can learn more about what it means to be a voluntary River Warden on this page.
Please contact Katie Field at East Mercia Rivers Trust if you'd like to discuss the scheme or attend the training.
Harvesting seed from
Wild Service trees
Help us gather ripe "chequers" from some of Rockingham Forest's iconic trees
Monday 30 October 2023,10:00-12:00
We'd like to get a small team together to collect as much seed as possible. More details of how it is done here. If you have a pair of long loppers you will be especially welcome! Please email if you are interested and able to help.
Fineshade's fabulous fungi
Over 150 species of fungi occur in Fineshade Wood and John Haughton will help us find and identify many of these
Saturday 4 November 2023, 10:00 - 12:00
As a small group we'll be straying off-track into little-known and damp parts of the wood, so please wear suitable clothing and footwear. Parking charges apply at Top Lodge.
Discovering fungi in a National Nature Reserve
Wednesday 1st November 2023, 10-12
A guided walk of interest to anyone wanting to understand more about fungi in woodland
A rare opportunity to visit this amazing reserve managed by Natural England. Join mycologist Mike Taylor to see what species can be found at what could be the peak time of year for fungi. Places limited - please email to book.
Work parties in Weldon
14 November, 12 Dec, 16 Jan, 13 Feb
Tuesdays 10:00am - 2:30pm
Scrub clearance to benefit the Liquorice Piercer moth and Dingy Skipper butterfly
Join Susannah and the team for some outdoor exercise, (as well as tea and biscuits!). Please email if you are planning on coming along.
Introduction to Forestry
Ring Haw Field Station, near Yarwell, PE8 6PW
Saturday 18 November 2023,
9:30am - 4:00pm
An introductory course for individuals and organisations who own or manage woodlands in the area. Tutor - Jemma Cuthbert
Course will include basic local woodland ecology, species and habitat ID. Also management techniques such as thinning, felling, natural regeneration, replanting, coppicing, fencing & dead-hedging. Full details on the RFS website
Fermyn Woods work parties
19 November, 21 Jan, 18 Feb, 17 March
Sundays 10:00am - 2:00pm
Scrub clearance to benefit Dingy and Grizzled Skippers and Green Hairstreak butterflies.
Great healthy exercise in the winter months. Good company and a real sense of satisfaction! Wear sturdy footwear and clothing you don’t mind getting dirty. All tools and some refreshments provided. Please contact organisers if coming.
Introduction to coppicing
Short Wood and Southwick Wood, Oundle
Learn practical skills in this nature reserve. There is a discount thanks to funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund.
Sunday 19 November, 2023, 10:00am - 4:00pm
This workshop led by Ian Wilson is a practical introduction to coppicing. The day will be spent looking at coppicing, layering and ride-widening and how these activities can benefit the flora and fauna of the wood.
Tree Planting and Tree Wardens
Monday 27 November 2023,
1:00 and 2:15 pm
Join the local Tree Wardens (and the Lord Lieutenant!) next Monday afternoon
An event in the glorious Ancient Woodland in the middle of Corby. A very good opportunity to learn more about what's involved in being a Tree Warden. Follow the link for more details
MistleGo!
Help to find Britain's mistletoe
Wednesday 29 November, 2023, 1-2pm
New national citizen-science project of real relevance to Rockingham Forest
The launch of a new project by the Tree Council. Learn all about the wonders of mistletoe and how you can get involved to help find mistletoe in the forest and predict the future of this native species!
Woodland and trees
in early winter
Saturday 2nd December, 2023, 10 - 12ish
A guided walk through this publicly accessible woodland managed by Forestry England
Can you tell your oak from your ash, and your pine from your spruce? Do you know why some are felled and others left to grow? Join forester Charles Cuthbert for a intriguing winter walk and see this often- visited woodland as you've never seen it before. Book your places here.
Fineshade Wood work parties
6 December 2023, and 24th January, 2024,
Wednesdays 10:00am - 2:30pm
Scrub clearance along the rides in Westhay Wood to benefit butterflies, moths & adders
Join Susannah and the team for some outdoor exercise, (as well as tea and biscuits!). Please email if you are planning on coming along.
Growing trees from seed
Tuesday 30 January, 2024, 1:00 - 2:30pm
An introduction to growing trees from seed and the wonderful world of community tree nurseries. Aimed at beginners but everyone welcome
Will Fitzpatrick from The Tree Council will demonstrate the easiest activity you can do at this time of year to grow new trees and outline the year-round process of growing trees from seed. One hour session plus Q&A
Assessing the naturalness of streams
14 February 2024
A freshwater monitoring initiative delivered in partnership with Natural England and the Freshwater Biological Association.
Train to become a citizen scientist carrying out ‘naturalness assessments’ on smaller rivers, streams, and lakes - areas that usually get missed by traditional monitoring methods.
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Woodland Creation Workshop
15 February, 2024, 10:30-1:30
A free workshop (and lunch!) presented by the Forestry Commission. This is aimed at landowners and managers, explaining benefits of tree planting and woodland creation
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Grants for creating woodlands
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Introducing the Woodland Carbon Code
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Managing woodland both for income and good quality habitat
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Woodland resilience and deer management
Fruit-tree grafting workshop
Saturday 9 March 2024 2-5pm
A free workshop run by Stamford Community Orchard Group and North Northants Council. Led by Adam Cade and Gareth Powell.
Learn the basic principles of grafting, plus a series of demonstrations and plenty of hands-on practice. Leave with your own new fruit tree. Light refreshments provided.
Train to survey for Adders
Friday 15th or Saturday 23rd March, 2024,
09:30-14:00
Join the Northants Amphibian and Reptile Group for a introduction to monitoring this most fascinating and elusive species
An introduction indoors followed by time outside looking for the Adders on the ground. Read more about our local Adders here and follow the bookings link for a free place on either day.
Meeting for Tree Wardens
An introduction to becoming a Tree Warden plus "Tree Threats and Challenges"
Wednesday 20th March, 2024
You can learn more about what it means to be a voluntary Tree Warden on this page.
More details about the meeing coming soon.
Birdsong and bluebells walk
King's Wood, Corby
Saturday 13 April 2024 10;30-12:00
Bring the family and enjoy the sights and sounds of spring in this beautiful ancient woodland close to the centre of Corby
A member of the Wildlife Trust team will lead us through this remnant of Rockingham Forest and help us identify some of the spring flowers such as Bluebells and Wood Anemones, as well as the songs of some more common woodland birds.
River Wardens training session
Sat 20th April, 2024, 10:00-12:30
We all know and are concerned about the current plight of our rivers. This is a chance to get involved and do a bit to help out
River Wardens make monthly visits to their local stream or stretch of river to monitor water quality and the general environment. See more about what's involved here. Email Katie Field to book for this training session
Learn about flies that kill snails
Ringhaw, Old Sulehay Nature Reserve. PE8 6PA
Saturday 11 May, 2024, 10:00 -16:00
Join John Showers, the county recorder, and learn about these fascinating flies
The snail-killing flies (family Sciomyzidae) parasitise snails or slugs. In this workshop you will find that most species are fairly straightforward to identify using a key. No prior knowledge of fly identification will be assumed.
Butterfly Conservation
Field Trip
Fermyn Woods Country Park, NN14 3HS
Sunday 12 May, 2024, 10:00-14:00
Walk with members of the local Butterfly Conservation group
A morning visit to see how winter conservation work has helped Dingy and Grizzled Skippers, Green Hairstreaks and other spring species in the park. With permission of Fermyn Woods Country Park and part of the Natural England Species Recovery Programme.
Charcoal making with an Exeter Charcoal retort
Rawhaw Wood, Pipewell, NN14 1QZ
Tuesday and Weds,14th and 15th May, 2024
Simon James from the Smallwoods Association will be leading a hands-on demonstration burn of the Exeter Charcoal Retort. Places limited.
Tues am: Loading the retort and lighting the heat up wood. pm. Retort getting up to temperature and likely to be gassing by 2pm.
Weds am: Open retort & remove charcoal.
There will be time for a guided walk through the wood to look at Hazel coppice in rotation. For more information or to book a place contact Hugh or Carolyn of Hazel Woodland Products, 07785 536613.
Woodland walk with the warden
Collyweston Great Wood,
National Nature Reserve
Wednesday 22nd May, 2024, 10:00 -12:00
Normally you need a permit to enter this NNR so this guided walk when it will be looking at its best is an opportunity not to be missed
No-one knows this Ancient Woodland as well as Tim Starsmore-Sutton and he will be able to point out the trees, flowers and other wildlife that make this a special place. This is part of Natural England's week celebrating NNRs across the country.
Guided walk around a working coppiced woodland
Rawhaw Wood, Pipewell, NN14 1QZ
Saturday 1st June, 2024, 10:00 -12:00ish
Visit the woodland where Hugh and Carolyn live and make a living by coppicing hazel
An opportunity to be shown around this amazingly different world and learn about the managed hazel coppice, charcoal making and much more. If you wish, bring a picnic and stay on for a chat. Numbers limited and booking by email essential
Woodland plants and plant communities
Ringhaw, Old Sulehay Nature Reserve. PE8 6PA
Sunday 2 June, 2024, 10:00 -16:00
Learn how to identify woodland plants with Lewis Saunders
A workshop learning the identification features of a wide range of characteristic woodland plant species, with a focus on those which indicate Ancient Woodland.
Butterfly and Moth Walk
Weldon Woodland Park, NN17 3JQ
Sunday 9 June, 2024, 10:30-12:30
Meet at the main entrance off Kettering Road, Weldon. Grid ref SP 9240 8901,
Join us for a walk around this fantastic site, to see some of the beautiful butterfly and day-flying moth species that can be found here.
No booking required but the event may be cancelled in the event of bad weather.
Grasses I and II - a beginner's introduction
Ringhaw, Old Sulehay Nature Reserve. PE8 6PA
Sunday 9 and 16 June, 2024, 10:00 -16:00
Learn how to identify grasses with Brian Eversham
Two days explaining the structure of grasses, including their beautiful if subtle flowers, and help you identify common grasses in the field using a hand lens and a short guide to the most distinctive species,
Butterfly and Moth walk
Ring Haw Nature Reserve,
Yarwell, PE8 6PA
Tuesday 11 June, 2024, 10:30-12:30
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Meet at the entrance off Sulehay Road, Yarwell. Grid ref TL 0539 9803,
Join us for a walk around this fantastic site, to see some of the beautiful butterfly and day-flying moth species that can be found here. We'll be on the look out for Dingy & Grizzled Skippers as well as the rare Liquorice Piercer moth
Butterfly Conservation
Field Trip
Fineshade Wood, NN17 3BB
Saturday 6 July, 2024, 10:30-12:30
Walk with members of the local Butterfly Conservation group
Come along to look for the excellent range of woodland species regularly recorded here: Silver-washed Fritillary, White-letter Hairstreak, Purple Emperor, White Admiral, Purple Hairstreak and Dark Green Fritillary. Part of the Natural England Species Recovery Programme.
Photography Workshops with
Hannah Carter-Orton
Coronation Park Pavilion, Corby
Thursday 11 July
Using photography to capture a sense of place. Learn about the techniques you can use in your own camera (morning session) or smartphone (afternoon session) and then venture outdoors to practise the techniques. Free, but booking essential.
Introduction to butterflies In Northamptonshire
Old Sulehay Nature Reserve near Yarwell
Learn about the butterfly species in Northamptonshire with the county recorder
Sunday 14 July, 2024, 10:00 -16:00
Dave James will deal with the identification and life cycles of our butterflies and explain how to help with butterfly surveying. No experience or equipment necessary, though a pair of close-focusing binoculars will help.
Clay Workshop
with sculptor Lisa Lovett
West Glebe Pavilion, Corby
Tuesday 30 July 12:30-15:00
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An animal, a plant, a tree, a place, your home, you? We would like to see what you create with clay. Suitable for all ages (children must be accompanied by an adult
This is a drop in session, no need to book.
Family Butterfly Walk in
Weldon Woodland Park
Wednesday 31st July 10:30-12:00
Join Susannah O'Riordan for a butterfly hunt
Meet at the main entrance off Kettering Road, Weldon. Nearest postcode NN17 3JQ.
Learn about butterflies and their habitats and see how many different ones you can spot at this free event. Part of our annual Big Butterfly Count.
​No booking required.
Guided Butterfly Walk in
Lyveden and Lilford Woods
Start from National Trust car park, PE8 5AT
Tuesday 6 August 10:30-13:30
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Walk with Jamie Wildman and Douglas Goddard of Butterfly Conservation
Capturing stunning Northamptonshire vistas, an unfinished Elizabethan lodge, and exclusive access to rarely-seen butterfly habitat in private woodland, this walk from Lyveden to Lilford Wood and back will be a feast for the eyes.
Collage Workshop with
artist Carole Miles
Corby Library at the Cube
Saturday 17 August 14:00-16:00
Using abstract painted papers and collage materials with a forest theme and colour scheme, families will work together to create a large scale woodland / Rockingham Forest art work. This is a drop in session, no need to book.
Discover Butterflies, Moths and Reptiles in Fineshade Wood
Top Lodge, Fineshade, NN17 3BB
Thursday 22 August 11:00-15:00
Join Butterfly Conservation and Northants ARG for a family-friendly discovery day
Drop in and learn all about the beautiful bugs and resplendent reptiles that call Northamptonshire home. We’ll be running a moth trap, have lots of butterfly and moth-themed crafts and activities and even reptiles to show off!
An encounter with bats on a summer's evening
Collyweston Great Wood PE9 3QA
Rachel Bates and members of the Cambridgeshire Bat Group will be our guides in this National Nature Reserve.
Thursday 22 August, 2024, 20:00 -21:30
We will be learning about bats and using bat detectors to locate them flying through the darkening woodland. A great experience for the whole family!
Please email for more details and to book
Free Forest Fun Day
for all the family
Prior's Hall Park, Corby. NN17 5GS
Lots more details coming soon - but for now.... Save the date!
Wednesday 28 August, 2024,
Come and find out about your local wildlife from real experts and take part in a host of nature loving activities from bug hunting to gorilla gardening and more. Activities will take place in the amphitheatre as well as in the gullet - a spectacular new nature reserve
Invertebrate survey and identification open day
Ringhaw, Old Sulehay Nature Reserve. PE8 6PA
Sunday 1 September 10:00 -15:00
Interested in invertebrates? This is
an ideal opportunity to share skills with like-minded people in a relaxed environment.
Beginners can look at different invertebrate groups with experts, and have access to books, guides and microscopes. More experienced will be able to share knowledge with a group and experience different sampling techniques. It's free!
Bats in a Corby Wood
Kings Wood, meet corner of Gainsborough Road and Danesholme Road NN18 9EG
Friday 13 September 19:30 - 21:00
Explore this beautiful ancient woodland (a remnant of the Rockingham Forest) and learn more about nocturnal wildlife.
Join a member of the Wildlife Trust team, have a go with a bat detector and learn more about these fascinating mammals.
Suitable for beginners and children aged 7+. Booking essential
Setting up a Tree Nursery
Aveland Trees, Dunsby, Bourne PE10 OUB
Tuesday 17 September 10:30 -15:30
A free day workshop for community groups, growers and landowners interested in learning how to grow trees and create a tree nursery
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Why grows trees in a nursery?
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Demand and supply of nursery trees
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Basic resources for a nursery
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Collecting and processing seed
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Germination and growing seedlings
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Biosecurity and record keeping
The ecology of climate change with Brian Eversham
Ringhaw, Old Sulehay Nature Reserve. PE8 6PA
Sunday 6 October, 2024, 10:00 -16:00
A workshop looking and climate change and its impacts on habitats and species
This workshop will explore underlying ecological changes. What is happening to the climate? Impacts on habitats; how are plants responding; changes in geographic range and biology of invertebrates and vertebrates; invasive species and diseases.
Discovering fungi in a
National Nature Reserve
Collyweston Great Wood, NNR
Wednesday 16 October, 2024, 10:00 -12:30
A guided walk of interest to anyone wanting to understand more about fungi in woodland
A rare opportunity to visit this amazing reserve managed by Natural England. Join Alan Robbins of the Huntingdon Fungus Group to see what species can be found at what is often the peak time of year for fungi. Please email to book.
Augean site Open Day
ENRMF, Stamford Road, Kings Cliffe, PE8 6XX
Saturday 19 October 2024, 10:00-13:00
Augean's open days offer a good opportunity to see how a modern engineered landfill operates and to tour the site by vehicle
Never attended the annual open day? It is well worth spending an hour visiting the exhibition and laboratory, talking to staff and seeing progress with the new parts of the complex including right up to Fineshade Wood. No need to book. More details 01780-723827 or by email.
Guided walk around a working coppiced woodland
Rawhaw Wood, Pipewell, NN14 1QZ
Saturday 26 October, 2024, 10:00 -12:00ish
Visit the woodland where Hugh and Carolyn live and make a living by coppicing hazel
Another opportunity to be shown around this amazingly different world in its autumn glory. Learn how and why the Hazel is coppiced and how that benefits the wildlife. Numbers limited and booking by email essential.
Nassington Nature Walk
Bedford Purlieus Woods
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Saturday 2 November, 2024, 10:30 - 12:30
Join Nassington Nature Lovers and the local group of the Wildlife Trust for an autumnal woodland walk in search of fungi
Another opportunity to discover fungi and learn more about them. The walk will be led by expert local botanist Sarah Lambert.
( WTBCN members £5, non members £10).
Book in advance via website
A practical introduction to coppicing
Short Wood and Southwick Wood, Oundle
Learn practical skills in this nature reserve.
Sunday 10 November, 2024,
10:00am - 4:00pm
This workshop led by Ian Wilson is a practical introduction to coppicing. The day will be spent looking at coppicing, layering and ride-widening and how these activities can benefit the flora and fauna of the wood.
Winter work parties at Fermyn Woods Country Park
Sundays 17 Nov, 19 Jan and 16th Feb
10:00-14:00
Meet near the Skylark Café (SP 952848, what3words.com/racks.digesting.stiletto nearest postcode NN14 3HS).
Join our friendly practical conservation group. We'll be clearing scrub to benefit butterflies - in particular the Dingy Skipper, Grizzled Skipper, and Green Hairstreak. We could do with your help!
Work parties in Weldon Woodland Park
Tuesdays 26 Nov, 7 Jan and 4th Feb 10:00-14:30
Meet at the main entrance off Kettering Road, Weldon. Nearest postcode NN17 3JQ.
Work off the calories in the company of a group of like-minded folks and make a real difference for nature. We'll be clearing scrub to benefit the Dingy Skipper butterfly and Liquorice Piercer moth.
Nassington Nature
A working party for wildlife
Meet in St Mary's Churchyard, PE8 6QG
Sat 23 November10am-3pm
Join us for an hour or two to help cut back vegetation and plant spring bulbs
Help us see the wood for the trees! We are managing the churchyard as a meadow to benefit wildlife. Wear suitable clothing and bring what gardening equipment you have. More info available from Fran Hurst.