10 Top Wildlife Walks for Spring

by Sue Talbot

As the wisps of winter’s chill begin to melt away, the UK’s countryside awakens from its slumber and spring’s vibrant tapestry unfolds. This is the perfect time to lace up your walking boots and immerse yourself in the nation’s stunning natural beauty.

Showcasing the most spectacular trails, fascinating creatures and inspiring landscapes, these are some of the best wildlife walks in the UK.

1. The Farne Islands, Northumberland

Located off the coast of Northumberland, the Farne Islands are a haven for ornithologists.

As spring arrives, the islands come alive with the cacophony of nesting birds, including puffins, guillemots and razorbills. Take a guided boat tour to explore the islands’ windswept coastline, hidden coves and rich wildlife.

2. The New Forest, Hampshire

The New Forest is one of the UK’s most beloved national parks and spring is the perfect time to explore here. As the trees regain their vibrancy, the forest floor erupts with a kaleidoscope of wildflowers, such as bluebells, wood anemones and primroses.

Keep an eye out for the forest’s familiar residents: wild ponies, deer and birds like the Dartford Warbler.

3. The Cairngorms National Park, Scotland

The Cairngorms is the UK’s largest national park and plays host to a wealth of wildlife and diverse landscapes. In spring, the park’s ancient forests come alive with the songs of birds like the capercaillie, Scotland’s national bird. Look out for red squirrels, roe deer and the majestic golden eagle soaring overhead.

4. The Somerset Levels, Somerset

The Somerset Levels is a unique and fascinating wetland ecosystem brimming with wildlife in the spring.

Take a walk along the River Parrett and spot birds like the bittern, marsh harrier and lapwing. Keep an eye out for otters, water voles and the Somerset Levels’ iconic ponies.

5. The Isle of Mull, Scotland

The Isle of Mull is a wildlife lover’s paradise, with its dramatic coastline, colourful villages and celebrated bird and animal species.

In spring, seabirds such as puffins, guillemots and gannets flock to the island. Take a guided boat tour to spot whales, dolphins, seals and the elusive white-tailed eagle.

6. The Malvern Hills, Worcestershire

The Malvern Hills is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and is home to idyllic scenery and a rich variety of wildlife. From March onwards, the hills are filled with the sweet sound of birdsong from the nightingale, woodlark and tree pipit.

Keep your eyes peeled for ponies grazing the Old Hills, and soak in the uninterrupted views of the surrounding countryside.

7. The Norfolk Broads, Norfolk

The Norfolk Broads is a captivating wetland ecosystem known for its meandering waterways, iconic windmills and abundant wildlife.

Hop on board a canal boat or walk along the riverbanks to spot birds like the bittern, marsh harrier and kingfisher. If you’re lucky, you might even spy otters and water voles frolicking in the water.

8. The Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, Wales

The Pembrokeshire Coast National Park boasts a dramatic coastal landscape that’s worthy of attention. In springtime, the park’s cliffs and coves are brought to life with the buzz of seabirds like puffins, guillemots and razorbills.

Head out onto the water to look for dolphins, porpoises and Atlantic grey and harbour seals that come ashore to moult in the early spring.

9. The North York Moors National Park, North Yorkshire

Renowned for its heather-covered moors and ancient woodlands, the North York Moors National Park bursts with colour at this time of year.

Wander through lilac-infused landscapes as you go in search of free-roaming ponies, curlew, lapwing and red grouse.

You can also enjoy cliff top walks and secluded beaches along the coastline as it winds between unspoilt villages and quaint fishing harbours.

10. The Shetland Islands, Scotland

For anyone seeking unique landscapes and wildlife, this remote archipelago, which lies at the most northerly tip of Scotland, has it all. From its complex coastline strewn with sleepy villages to the incredible array of wildlife, the Shetland Islands are home to puffins, guillemots and gannets.

During the spring months, you might even catch a glimpse of pilot whales, dolphins and the white-tailed eagle.