Norfolk is viewed by many as the UK’s bird watching capital, and it’s not hard to see why. From the variety of habitats (salt marsh, woodland, heathland, and fresh water) to the sheer numbers of different species and size of aggregations, it does take some beating.
Oaktree Cottage is well located to take advantage of all of these habitats, with all kinds easily accessible within half an hour’s drive, and most much, much closer.
For ornithologists of all levels of interest and commitment, the many reserves take some beating – especially if the weather is less than ideal for sitting out in the open. The closest reserve is Pensthorpe (less than 9 miles by road) which has been home to BBC’s Springwatch for the last three years, and has a number of hides (several heated). Species spotted at Pensthorpe include Little Ringed Plover, Sandmartin, and Marsh Harrier, Avocet, Redshank, Greenshank, Lapwing and Bittern, as well as a wealth of warbler species and other Summer migrants.
As well as the wetland habitat, Pensthorpe also has a cafe, shop, gardens, nature trails (taking in the red squirrel habitat), and a busy programme of events.
If you are visiting in the autumn through the the spring, then the flood-lit feedings (which can readily be viewed from indoors) provide quite a spectacle.
The Norfolk Wildlife Trust visitor centre on the coast road in Cley (less than 9 miles in the other direction) is in the centre of the north coast salt marsh habitat. The centre includes a cafe, interpretation centre, viewing area (including views from cameras on the marsh), and provides stunning views out across the marsh. The Cley marshes reserve is also the oldest nature reserve of any kind in the country.
Avocets feeding on the Cley Salt Marshes
Brent Geese – just disturbed by a Marsh Harrier
There are further reserves throughout the area…
If you are a hardened bird watcher and are happy to watch from the open, then there are countless opportunities along the coast, and Broads, as well as in some truly ancient woodland. Foxley Wood (just under 20 miles by road) is believed to be 6000 years old, and is the largest ancient wood in Norfolk.
For heathland habitats, you can again take your pick around the Weybourne to Salthouse area (broadly known as Kelling Heath), which is one of the best UK spots for seeing (or at least hearing!) nightjars.
For something truly exotic, Norfolk has been visited by bee-eaters for the last couple of summers, so we’re hopeful for a return in 2024
The Fat Birder provides some more advice on other top Norfolk bird-watching spots.