About the event

You can book this experience as a private event for up to 8 people

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Do you know how may different things make an Atlantic rainforest? Danni our Nature reserve Officer will guide you through all the tiny amazing things that make up this wonderful habitat.  Using field microscopes you will see some of these fantastic species up close.  Half way though our walk we will stop for lunch (provided by a local bakery), then continue on our journey through the very different woodlands that make up this special Nature reserve.

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You'll start your adventure strolling along the banks of the River Kent (look out for kingfishers – they go by in a flash!) and continue on to the peaceful Staveley Woodlands. Beneath the tree canopy, your guide will tell you more about the importance of temperate rainforests and help you discover the signs that tell you you're in one.

The seasons bring different species, from fragrant daffodils, bluebells and wild garlic in spring, to fantastic fungi in autumn. Look out for intricate lichen and trailing ferns, as well as signs of badgers and bats.

Lift your eyes to the branches above to spot pied and spotted flycatchers, redstart, willow warblers, blackcaps, and great spotted woodpeckers. Nuthatches and treecreepers scuttle along tree trunks, while you might spot red kites soaring above the canopy.

Your guide will provide equipment to help you get a closer look at the species you find, such as binoculars, magnifying glasses and microscopes. You can also bring your own, if you like.

Later on, tuck into a picnic lunch and a hot or cold drink under our woodland shelter, taking the opportunity to listen to the birds singing in the trees above – a great time to learn or test out your ID skills!

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This adventure includes a 3.5 mile walk that can be steep and slippery in places. It's best for those who are physically mobile and able to walk through potentially tricky terrain. Your guide, Danni, keeps the walk very relaxed and will make sure that no one is left behind.

Families are welcome, though children should be old enough to focus for a longer period of time and understand the need to be fairly quiet in order to see the wildlife emerge.