From puffins to otters, seals and osprey, here are the best places in the UK to spot native wildlife species in spectacular surroundings.
Scottish Highlands
The Scottish Highlands offer some of the most breathtaking sceneries in the UK, as well as an abundance of wildlife. From majestic red deer roaming the hillsides to pine martens and red squirrels in the ancient Caledonian forests, the Highlands are a paradise for nature lovers.
Keep an eye out for the following species:
- Golden eagles
- Red throated divers
- Red deer
- Pine martens
- Red squirrels
- Mountain hares
Northumberland
From April onwards, a large number of puffins settle on the Farne Islands, which are owned by the National Trust. They stay there until July. To catch sight of these charming birds and their adorable chicks, you can take a boat trip from Seahouses, a coastal village nearby. This allows you to observe them emerging from their burrows in the cliffs.
Cornwall
In Cornwall, April is a bustling time for wildlife! Along the rugged coastline, you can catch sight of seals resting on the rocks or swimming along the coastline. Seek out quieter spots like Godrevy or Mutton Cove for the best seal-watching experiences. It's also the start of breeding season for seabirds such as razorbills, guillemots, and kittiwakes. Take a stroll along the South West Coast Path or join a boat tour to spot these birds nesting on the cliffs or diving for fish. Keep an eye out for dolphins and porpoises too!
Forest of Dean
Nestled on the border between England and Wales, the Forest of Dean is a wonderful destination for wildlife lovers. This ancient woodland is home to a diverse range of species, including wild boar, fallow deer, and goshawks. Springtime in the Forest of Dean brings a burst of life, with bluebells carpeting the forest floor and trees turning green. Keep your eyes peeled for signs of pine martens and dormice as you explore the forest trails.
Norfolk
Otters have become even more popular since the pandemic, thanks to all the uplifting memes that were created and shared on social media. They've also made a comeback in the Norfolk Broads, covering a stretch of 125 miles, which includes areas like Strumpshaw Fen. Otters tend to favour quieter backwaters over the busier parts of the Broads. To catch a glimpse of them, consider kayaking but remember to respect their space and watch them from afar. Early evening is the best time to see them, as they become more active.
North Yorkshire
Whitby's history was shaped by its whaling fleet, but nowadays, it's become a hub for whale-watching adventures.
While sightings of whales in North Yorkshire are less common in April compared to the summer months, it's not impossible. April marks the beginning of the whale migration season in the North Sea, and there have been occasional sightings of various whale species, including minke whales, off the North Yorkshire coast during this time.
This Easter, why not venture into the great outdoors and experience the wonders of British wildlife? Whether you're exploring the rugged coastline of Cornwall or wandering through the ancient woodlands of the Forest of Dean, there's no shortage of incredible wildlife in these places.