Lost rainforest discovery

You might think that rainforests only exist in far-flung locations, but we have them here in Cumbria, too. Join us at Staveley Woodlands to spot tell-tale signs that we're actually exploring a fragment of an ancient, lost world. 

This experience is available on Saturdays. Book your exclusive event for up to 8 people for £320 – please enquire below. 

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Your experience
 

You'll start your adventure by strolling along the banks of the River Kent (look out for kingfishers – they go by in a flash!), then continuing along a gently rising road to Staveley Woodlands. As you slip beneath the tree canopy, your guide will tell you more about the importance of temperate rainforests and help you discover the tell-tale signs that you're in one. 

Wander up the woodland trails and become enveloped in your surroundings. 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, and you might spot red kites soaring above the canopy. 

Your guide will provide equipment, such as binoculars, magnifying glasses and microscopes, to help you get a closer look at the species you find. If you have your own equipment, please feel free to bring it along. 

Later on, tuck into a picnic lunch and a warm 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 bird ID skills.

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.

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What's included?

Food & drink

• We'll provide a picnic-y lunch to much on, with tea, coffee, hot chocolate and cordial available to drink. 

Equipment

•  We'll have binoculars, magnifying glasses and microscopes for you to use, but please feel free to bring your own. 
   

What will I need to bring?
 

Warm Clothing 

• You’ll be outside the whole time, so dress appropriately for the season and be prepared for changeable weather. Bring layers, plus a hat and gloves. Sturdy boots are a must for walking through the woodland – please note that the ground may be muddy.

Waterproofs 

• Bring a waterproof jacket, even if the weather is fine – it's best to avoid getting caught short! You could also bring waterproof trousers as an extra layer for your legs.

Extras

• During warmer months, you might also want to bring insect repellent.

Income from our Wildlife Experiences supports our work, so by joining us for an experience, you're helping to protect wildlife in Cumbria.