Get Wild this Summer
Take Your Family to Find Britain’s Best Animals in these 5 North-West Spots
Here in Britain, we’re lucky to have a wide range of wildlife right on our doorstep. Not only is the country home to many national parks, but you can also find several hidden beaches, forests and landscapes that house some fantastic wildlife species over the summer months.
Fortunately, you don’t have to venture too far from home to explore the wonderful wildlife that this country has to offer, as there are numerous spots right here in the north-west that you can take advantage of! To get you started, the wildlife experts over at Wild Science have put together some of the best locations you can visit to find animals with your family this August.
1. Dunham Massey
If you’re a Cheshire local you’ve likely taken a trip to Dunham Massey in the past, however, if you re-visit in summer you’ll catch a glimpse of the majestic deers that live there.
The bucks start to regrow their antlers around August, so you may find them in the middle of this process when you visit. You can also find ducks and their ducklings, damselflies, squirrels on the grounds of this national trust property.
They host daily wild trail walks at 1.30pm, so it’s the perfect place to visit with your family for a post-lunch stroll.
2. Burton Mere Wetlands
The Burton Mere Wetlands are a great place to visit this August if you’re hoping to spot some of Britain’s finest birds. Some of the main species that reside there include the Kingfisher, Little Egret and Pink-footed Goose, and over summer you’ll also be able to spot some adorable little ducklings wandering around.
Alternatively, if birds aren’t your thing, you and your family can participate in one of five Badgerwatch events that the RSPB are hosting this August. This will allow you to spot badgers in their natural habitats, and you may even find some bats too.
These tours involve lots of sitting and waiting patiently so they’re not suitable for young children, however, the older kids will find these events just as fun.
3. Hockenhull Platts
The Hockenhull Platts nature reserve is situated just outside Chester and is made up of many walking trails, wetlands and meadows. Here, you’ll be able to find a range of local birds and cows, as well as otters, which have been spotted along the banks of the River Gowy.
Top tip: Some areas are only accessible with prior arrangement, so make sure to call the Cheshire Wildlife Trust before your visit to find out which areas will be open.
4. Turbary Woods
For the thrill-seekers out there, Turbary Woods is a great place to visit this August if you want to see large birds of prey in action. This bird sanctuary is situated in Preston and it is easily accessible by car, making it the perfect place to go for a short day trip with the family.
The Turbary Woods sanctuary is a run by volunteers who regularly host ‘flying displays’ with the birds of prey and owls, so you can see these spectacular animals show off their skills.
5. Chester Zoo
Chester Zoo is a renowned wildlife and conservation centre, which is home to over 21,000 different species of animal! You’ll have no trouble spending the whole day here as there are over 100 acres of land to explore, and tonnes of activities to take part in with your family.
On the 11th August, they’re hosting the Summer Stampede, which helps to raise money for the fight against EEHV; a disease that harms and kills Asian elephants worldwide. Alternatively, there are several events at Chester Zoo you can choose from to watch wildlife with your family this August.
Some lovely outing ideas here
Some great days out for the family pretty local to me thanks for sharing
Some great ideas for some days out perfect for kids big and small
Apart from the zoo these are all places I have not heard of so it’s been great to get some new ideas for days out. Thank you