Spring in the Ancient Woodlands of Englishcombe

Odd Down

Leader: Alan Feest Meet: 10.00 Entrance to Odd Down Park & Ride Car Park. Gr ST 733616. Landranger 172/Explorer 155. Finish: 12:30. Focus: Spring flora in ancient woodland. Description: We will visit Duchy-owned woodland in Englishcombe Parish to note the signs of Spring, especially the ground flora typical of these traditional oak-hazel woodlands, which are still […]

Westhay Moor

Westhay Moor, Somerset GR ST456437, Somerset

Leader: David Goode Meet: 10:30 Westhay Moor Car Park Gr ST 456437 Landranger 182/Explorer 141. Finish: 15:00 approx. Focus: Bog ecology, sphagnum mosses, wetland birds, early migrants. Description: A walk along paths and boardwalk within the Nature Reserve. Bring sandwiches, wet weather gear and wellingtons.

Langford Lakes and Battlesbury Hill

Langford

Leader: Phillip Delve Meet: 10.00 Langford Lakes WWT Reserve Car Park. Gr SU 038369. Landranger 184/Explorer 130. Directions: This is a two-centre meeting, beginning at Langford Lakes, followed by Battlesbury Hill near Warminster on the return journey. Langford Lakes: Follow the A36 south, past the A303 junction and turn right for Steeple Langford. Turn right […]

Elan Valley coach trip with RSPB

Elan Valley, Wales

Leader: Dave Newman Meet: 08.00 Coach leaves Riverside, Avon Street and returns about 18:00. Focus: Summer migrants, pied flycatcher, moorland birds. We will not revisit the Red Kite feeding station at Gigrin Farm, but plenty of kites will be seen in the area. Description: Joint BNHS/RSPB meeting. Booking and prepayment essential  (see form for details). Download booking form for […]

Riverside and Canal Towpath

Leader: Lucy Starling Attendance is limited to a maximum of 15. Booking required. Start: 9:30 Meet: Beckford Road. GR ST 756654 Landranger 172/Explorer 155 Limited on street parking locally. Finish: Approx 13:30 Focus: Bird song, including incoming summer migrants, warblers, possibly kingfisher, butterflies and damselflies Description: Bathwick to Bathampton, via Batheaston, as published on BNHS […]

Rodborough Common near Stroud, Glos

Leader: Andy Daw Start: 11:00 Meet: in car park at the top of Rodborough Common. GR SO 851034 Landranger 162/Explorer 168 SAT NAV 51.7308787-2.2168772 Finish: Approx 15:00 Focus: Orchids, butterflies, shield bugs and other insects Description: The Common, due south of Stroud, is rich in wildlife. There are steep slopes included on a walk of […]

Lam Brook Valley near Bath

Leader: Roy Mitchell Attendance  is limited to a maximum of 15. Booking required. Start: 10:00 Meet: At junction of Innox Lane and Tadwick Lane outside St Mary’s Church, Swainswick. GR ST 756683 Landranger 172/Explorer 155. Limited on street parking on Tadwick Lane and Innox Lane by the church and school. More on-street parking in other […]

Cinderford Linear Park, Glos

Leader: Phillip Delve Attendance is limited to a maximum of 16. Booking required. Start: 10:00 Meet: Southern entrance car park off B4226. GR SO 649127 Landranger 162 / Explorer OL14 Finish: Approx 14:30 Focus: Butterflies such as Wood White and Small Pearl-bordered Fritillary. Day-time flying moths, dragonflies, flora and birds, in particular warblers and Tree […]

Little Solsbury Hill above Batheaston

Leader: Helena Crouch Start: 14:00 Meet: In lay-by on east side of A46. GR ST 762682 Landranger172 / Explorer155. Driving north from Bath on the A46, take left turn to Langridge/Tadwick/Woolley/Swainswick, then follow this round to the left, turning left under the A46 to reach the lay-by. Finish: Approx 17:00 Focus: Summer flowers and insects […]

Avon Valley, Saltford

Leader: Chris Vines Start: 10:00 Meet: The Shallows Car Park, Saltford (which can be busy if a hot sunny day). Bus service X39 Bath Bus Station to The Crown Inn, Saltford. GR ST 687673 Landranger 172 / Explorer 155. Finish: Approx 12:00 Focus: Dragonflies including scarce chaser, white-legged and blue-tailed damselflies. Possible bird sightings include […]

Moth Trap In American Museum & Gardens

American Museum Claverton Manor, Claverton Down, Claverton,, Bath

Leader: Carole Catling Please note attendance to this event, is limited to a maximum of 20 places Start: 9:00 Meet: In main car park off Claverton Hill. GR ST 783640 Landranger 172 / Explorer 155 Finish: Approx 11:00 Focus: Moths caught overnight in traps Description: moth traps will be opened in the gardens close to […]

Newton St. Loe & Wilmington

Newton St. Loe Churchyard Newton St. Loe, Bath

Leader: Richard Bottle Start: 10:30 Meet: in Newton St. Loe Churchyard. Grid Ref. ST701649. Landranger Map 172/Explorer 155. Take care to park considerately in the village. Finish: Approx 14:30 Focus: Summer birds and plants. Description: A varied circular walk of 4.3 miles, taking in the lakes and woods in the ground of Bath Spa University, […]

Members’ Round Table at BRLSI

BRLSI - Bath Royal Literary and Scientific Institution 16-18 Queen Square, Bath, Somerset

Join the President for coffee and a chat followed, weather permitting, by a short local walk.

Westhay and Ham Wall Reserves, Somerset

Westhay Moor, Somerset GR ST456437, Somerset

Leaders: Tony and Bryan Cook Please note attendance is limited to a maximum of 15 places. Start: 10:00 Meet: Westhay reserve car park. GR ST 456437 Landranger 183 / Explorer 141 Finish: Approx 15:30 Focus: Multiple interest, especially birds including bearded reedling, birds of prey, possibly hobby, herons and egrets, and migrating wader species. Dragonflies […]

Hazelbury Common (aka Wadswick Common)

Box, Selwyn Hall Valens Lane, Box, Wiltshire, United Kingdom

Leader: Geoff Hiscocks Please note attendance is limited to a maximum of 10 places. Start: 10:30 Meet: In the public car park in Box behind Selwyn Hall, Valens Lane, off A4. GR ST 823686 Landranger 173/Explorer 156. There is very limited parking space at the Common itself. There will be a walk up the A365 […]

Chilcombe Bottom near Batheaston

Eagle House Northend, Bath, Somerset

Leaders: Clare Herbert and John Rawles Please note attendance is limited to a maximum of 15 places. Start: 10:00 Meet: At Eagle House, Northend BA1 7EH. GR 779684 Landranger 172/Explorer 155. Parking available roadside. Or Bus 3A or 3B from Bus Station, alight St Catherine’s Way, Batheaston (check first with Traveline) Finish: Approx 13:00 Focus: […]

Moth Trap at Elm Farm, Burnett, Keynsham

Elm Farm Burnett, Keynsham

Please note the change of venue and booking details, and earlier start time from the details originally published in the BathNats members' newsletter Leaders: Lucy Starling and Terry Doman Please note attendance is limited to a maximum of 10 places. Hosts: Philippa and John Paget Start: 9:00 am Finish: Approx 11.30am Meet: Elm Farm, car […]

Members’ slides

BRLSI - Bath Royal Literary and Scientific Institution 16-18 Queen Square, Bath, Somerset

Revival of what used to be a popular feature at the start of past indoor programmes. Doors open 7.00pm £2 members  £4 guests

Bat Watch, Friary, near Freshford

Friary

Leader: Laura Mullholland of Wiltshire Bat Group Host: Penny Williamson Start: 19:30 Meet: Just within Friary, to right of the cattle grid, where you will see a sign “Car Park”. GR ST 788591 Landranger 172/Explorer 142. Friary is reached via Friary Wood Lane, a narrow steep road leading down from A36. Finish: Approx 21:00 Focus: […]

Slimbridge WWT, Glos

Slimbridge Wetland Centre Bowditch,, Slimbridge, Gloucestershire

Leader: Phillip Delve Please note attendance to this event, is limited to a maximum of 16 places. Start: 10:00 Meet: In the car park below entrance steps to Reception Centre GR SO 723047 Landranger 162/Explorer OL14. Postcode GL2 7BT Finish: Approx 14:30 Focus: Birds including passage waders and other migrant species and wildfowl Description: Level […]

Englishcombe and Haycombe, Bath

Haycombe Cemetery Haycombe, Bath

Leader: Rob Randall Start: 11:00 Meet: At entrance to Haycombe Cemetery. GR ST 721635 Landranger 172/Explorer 155. If arriving by car, park at Roundhill Park. If coming by bus, the (Whiteway) No.5, via Twerton runs every 15 minutes, or catch the (Southdown) No.1 to Wedmore Park, then take the path along north edge of Twerton […]

East Harptree Woods, North Somerset

East Harptree Woods North Somerset

Leaders: Alan Rayner and Helena Crouch Start: 10:30 Meet: In Forestry England car park off Smitham Hill GR ST 557541 Landranger 182/Explorer 141 Finish: Approx 14:30 Focus: Fungi and other autumn wildlife Description: Slow walk, looking at fungi and bryophytes in particular, through conifer plantation on the site of former lead mine. Site includes relics […]

Midsummer In Sweden, A Smorgasboard of Swedish Wildlife

BRLSI - Bath Royal Literary and Scientific Institution 16-18 Queen Square, Bath, Somerset

Speaker: Andrew Daw, past President, photographer, illustrator and master of the art of origami. Doors open 7.00pm £2 members  £4 guests

Shearwater, Near Crockerton, Wiltshire

Shearwater, Near Crockerton

Leader: Alvan White Start: 10:30 Finish: Approx. 13:00 Meet: Shearwater car park, GR ST 854420 Landranger 183/Explorer 142 Focus: Insects, fungi, spiders and woodland birds, including Siskins and Crossbills. Description: A slow stroll around part of the lake with the possibility of extending the meeting by car or walking to another area in search of […]

Round Table Meeting

BRLSI - Bath Royal Literary and Scientific Institution 16-18 Queen Square, Bath, Somerset

BRLSI Coffee morning, 11 am to 12 noon. A chance to socialise and provide ideas for next summer's programme.

Bath High Common (previously Approach Golf Course)

Bath High Common

Leader: Rob Randall & Alan Rayner Start: 13:00 Finish: Approx. 15:00 Meet: Bottom entrance opposite the top entrance to Victoria Park GR ST 742655, Explorer 155 Focus: Grassland fungi. Description: A gentle stroll of about 1km through the old common looking for fungi which are varied and plentiful in a good year despite the rather […]

Friary Fungus Day

Friary

Leader: Alan Rayner Hosts: Penny and Richard Williamson Please contact the hosts in advance to book Start: 11:00 Finish: Approx. 15:30 Meet: Just within Friary, to the right of the metal grid, where you will see a sign “Welcome to park”. GR ST 788591, Landranger 172/Explorer 142. Friary is reached via Friary Wood Lane, a […]

Creating And Managing Wild Flower Meadows

BRLSI - Bath Royal Literary and Scientific Institution 16-18 Queen Square, Bath, Somerset

Speaker: Dan Merrett The Bathscape Manager has had plenty of experience, having been involved in schemes to create species-rich grassland before moving to Bath. We hope to follow-up this talk with a visit to one of the local examples of a man-made wild flower meadow. Doors open 7.00pm £2 members  £4 guests

Around Stourhead, Wiltshire

Stourhead

Leader: Felicity Gilmour Start: 10:30 Finish: Approx. 13:00 Meet: National Trust car park off B3092 Post Code BA12 6QF GR ST 779340 Landranger 183/Explorer 142 Free parking for National Trust members (bring membership card) or £4.00. Focus: Signs and colours of autumn, especially woodland birds and possibility of Tree Sparrows. Description: A walk around the […]

Keyhaven, Hampshire with Bath RSPB

Keyhaven

Leader: Dave Newman (Booking and prepayment essential by 19th October 2022 ) Coach: 7:30 start, various pick up points in Bath (locations to be advised on booking form) Focus: Early winter migrants including waders, wildfowl and coastal species. Full details on booking form. Download the form here: Keyhaven 19th Nov Booking form

Around Newton St Loe & Wilmington

Newton St. Loe Churchyard Newton St. Loe, Bath

Please note attendance to this event is limited to a maximum of 12 places Leader: Richard Bottle Start: 10:30 Finish: Approx. 14:30 Meet: Newton St Loe churchyard, GR ST701649. Landranger Map 172/Explorer Map 155. Please park considerately in village. Focus: General interest, local history and natural history. Description: A circular walk of 4.3 miles, taking […]

Presidential Address – Plant Pests and Parasites

BRLSI - Bath Royal Literary and Scientific Institution 16-18 Queen Square, Bath, Somerset

Speaker: Rob Randall will illustrate some of the problems that plants encounter in their struggle to survive and strategies they employ to ensure that they do. They are not always successful ,of course. Doors open 7.00pm £2 members  £4 guests

Ham Wall and Shapwick, near Glastonbury

Ham Wall RSPB Reserve Meare, Ashcott,, Glastonbury, Somerset

Please note that attendance to this event is limited to 18 places Leaders: Tom Rogers and Glen Maddison Start: 10:30 Finish: Approx. 16.30 Meet: By reception building in Ham Wall RSPB reserve car park GR ST 449395 Landranger 182 or SAT NAV BA6 9SX. CAR PARKING CHARGES APPLY FOR NON RSPB MEMBERS Focus: Wetland birds, […]

CANCELLED: Bathampton To Claverton Pumping Station Linear Walk

The George car park Mill Lane, Bathampton

Saturday 17 December: the event has been cancelled because of the harsh weather forecast for the day.   Please note that attendance is limited to 12 places. Leader: Lucy Starling Start: 10:00 Finish: Approx. 13:00 Meet: In car park of The George public house off Mill Lane, GR ST 777665 Explorer Map 155 Focus: Winter […]

Annual General Meeting

BRLSI - Bath Royal Literary and Scientific Institution 16-18 Queen Square, Bath, Somerset

Go Slow Bath City Stroll

Beazer Maze Bath

Please note that attendance is limited to 15. Leader: Lucy Starling This walk is particularly suitable for those with limited mobility and most of the route is mobility scooter friendly. The event is also suited to the novice bird watcher. Start: 10:00 Finish: Approx. 12.30 Meet: By Beazer Maze on riverside path by Pulteney Weir, […]

Slimbridge Wildfowl And Wetlands Trust Reserve

Slimbridge Wetland Centre Bowditch,, Slimbridge, Gloucestershire

Please note attendance is limited to a maximum of 16. Leader: Phillip Delve Start: 10:00 Finish: Approx. 16:00 Meet: In the car park below the entrance steps to Reception Centre GR SO 723047 Landranger 162/Explorer OL14 SAT NAV GL2 7BT Focus: Wildfowl, waders and birds of prey Description: Level walking on hard surfaces, visiting hides […]

Round Table Meeting

BRLSI - Bath Royal Literary and Scientific Institution 16-18 Queen Square, Bath, Somerset

BRLSI Coffee morning, 11 am to 12 noon. A chance to socialise and provide ideas for next summer's programme.

Grand Parade, Bath

GRand Parade Bath

Please note that attendance will be limited to 10 due to the nature of the event. Leader: Rob Randall Start: 13:00 Finish: 14:0 Meet: Grand Parade above the weir, GR ST 751649. Landranger 172/Explorer 155 Focus: Lichens on Bath Stone Description: A close look at lichens growing on the balustrade. A hand lens or camera […]

St Catherine’s Valley, Northend, Batheaston

Eagle House Northend, Bath, Somerset

Leaders: Clare Herbert & John Rawles Start: 10.00 Finish: Approx. 13.00 Meet: Eagle House, Northend, GR 779684 Landranger 172/Explorer 155 SAT NAV BA1 7EH Roadside parking, or by bus 3A or 3B, alight St Catherine’s Way, Batheston (check timetable Traveline). Focus: Early Spring flora and resident birds and bird song. Description: Gentle level walking over […]

Linking Environment and Farming

BRLSI - Bath Royal Literary and Scientific Institution 16-18 Queen Square, Bath, Somerset

Speaker: Jeremy Padfield runs a mixed farm at Stratton-on-the-Fosse, as a LEAF Demonstration Farm. LEAF encourages and helps land-owners to farm sustainably and aims to educate the public about the benefits to the environment of sustainable land management. See Stratton Farms | LEAF (Linking Environment and Farming) Wheelchair access is available by contacting  BRLSI reception.

BRLSI Exhibition – Facing Up To Beetles

BRLSI - Bath Royal Literary and Scientific Institution 16-18 Queen Square, Bath, Somerset

NB Mondays to Fridays only 10 am to 4 pm, An exhibition of macro-photography by students at the University of Bristol, accompanied by a range of specimens from the BRLSI Collection. Timed to coincide with the talk by Mike Hacksto on Monday 6 March Wheelchair access is available by contacting  BRLSI reception 01225 312084

Entry Hill, Combe Down

Entry Hill Combe Down, Bath

Please note that attendance will be limited to 10 places due to the nature of the event. Leaders: Rob Randall & Marion Rayner Start: 10:00 Finish: Approx. 12:00 Meet: Cross-roads with the Bradford road at top of Entry Hill. GR ST 743622. Landranger 172/Explorer 155. Park locally or come by bus. Regular services but check […]

Beetles and Their World

BRLSI - Bath Royal Literary and Scientific Institution 16-18 Queen Square, Bath, Somerset

Speaker: Mike Hackston, An entomologist and botanist, will introduce us to the world of beetles. Mike is a teacher and produces a range of educational material on the internet, including identification keys Mikes Insect Keys (google.com) Doors open 7.00pm £2 members  £4 guests Wheelchair access is available by contacting  BRLSI reception 01225 312084

Bird Song Workshop

Sydney Gardens Community Pavilion Bath

Leader: lucy starling, past President and expert on bird song recognition. Sydney Gardens Community Pavilion (inside entrance at end of Bathwick Street) Start: 10:30 am, followed by a short walk round the Gardens.  

Primrose Hill to Beckford’s Tower

Weston Park East Bath

Leader: Robert Hargreaves and Anne Crowe Start: 10:00 Finish: Approx. 13:00 Meet: Weston Park East BA1 2UZ below The Royal High Junior School, GR ST 735660. Landranger 172/Explorer 155. Roadside parking available. Focus: The last of the winter thrushes, first of the breeding birds and early spring flora. Description: A steady walk (no stiles) up […]

Go Slow Around Monkton Combe & Dundas Aqueduct

Angel Fish car park, Monkton Combe Brassknocker Hill, Monkton Combe

Leader: Terry Doman Start: 10:00 Finish: Approx. 12:00 Meet: In Pay & Display Angel Fish car park at the bottom of Brassknocker Hill, Monkton Combe, GR ST 783261. Landranger 172/Explorer 155. Focus: Birds and general interest including early spring flowers Description: An easy paced slow walk in particular aimed at the less mobile. A linear […]

Our Changing Bird Population

BRLSI - Bath Royal Literary and Scientific Institution 16-18 Queen Square, Bath, Somerset

A Tale From A Birder's Log Book Speaker: Chris Vines, Bird Recorder for Bath Natural History Society. Doors open 7.00pm £2 members  £4 guests Wheelchair access is available by contacting  BRLSI reception 01225 312084

Lansdown Battlefields and Cotswold Way

Lansdown Park & Ride

Please note that attendance to this event is limited to 15 places. Leader: Glen Maddison Start: 10:00 Finish: Approx. 14:00 Meet: At Lansdown Park & Ride car park by bus stop: GR ST 731682 Landranger 172/Explorer 155 SAT NAV BA1 9BJ Focus: Early Spring migrants. Warblers, Wheatear, Whinchat and Hirundines. Butterflies, including Brimstone and Green-veined […]

Go Slow: Birds and Bird Song in Sydney Gardens

Sydney Gardens Bath

Leader: Lucy Starling Non-members and novice birders particularly welcome so feel free to bring a friend. Start: 9:00 Finish: 10:30 Meet: In Gardens by the gates at the end of Bathwick Street, GR ST 756653. Landranger 172/Explorer 155 SAT NAV BA2 4DB Focus: Birds and their songs and calls including Blackbird, Song Thrush, Nuthatch and […]

St. James’ Cemetery, Lower Bristol Road, Bath

St. James' Cemetery, Lower Bristol Road Bath

Please note that attendance will be limited to 10 places due to the nature of the event. Leader: Rob Randall Start: 1 pm Finish 2 pm Focus: Spring flowers, native and exotic. Description: A slow stroll round the cemetery, which has a wide range of trees and flowers, especially spring bulbs. Please book with the […]

(Cotswold Water Park &) Lower Moor Farm near Oaksey, updated

Neighbridge Car Park Spine Road, nr Minety, Wilts

Due to unforeseen circumstances this event has had to be amended from the description in the BNHS Autumn / Winter 2022-2023 newsletter, issued in 2022. Leader: to be confirmed 1. Cotswold Water Park This first part of the day is now self-guided and there will be no leader in attendance Start: 8:00 Finish: 10:00 Meet: […]

Moths at The American Museum Gardens, Claverton, Bath

American Museum Claverton Manor, Claverton Down, Claverton,, Bath

Leaders: Lucy Starling & Phillip Delve Start: 9.00        Finish: Approx. 11.00 Meet: Main car park off Claverton Hill GR ST 783640 Landranger 172/Explorer 155 Focus: Moths caught overnight in two humane moth traps. Description: To view, record, then release moths caught the previous night. Traps will be opened in the gardens near the main entrance […]

Cancelled: Photography Workshop, Friary, near Bath

Friary

This event has been cancelled Leader: Victoria Hillman Host: Penny Williamson Start: 10.30 Finish: Approx. 13:00 Meet: GR ST 788591 Landranger 172/Explorer 142. Friary is reached via a steep narrow road off the A36, through Friary Woods. Focus: General interest wildlife specimens. Description: Learn to take both identification and creative images of your special interest […]

Brean Down, near Weston-Super-Mare

Brean Down nr Weston-supe-Mare, Somerset

Leader: Rob Randall Start: 11:00      Finish: Approx. 15:00 Meet: Brean Down car park. GR ST 297587 Landranger 182 /Explorer 153  (£6 coins or PayByPhone app, free to NT members). An easy route by car is via the A368 and A371 to Weston-super-Mare then the A370 south, turning right for Lympsham and Brean about a mile […]

Bathwick Fields and Smallcombe, Bath

Bathwick Fields & Smallcombe Bath

Leader: Marion Rayner Start: 14.00      Finish: Approx. 16.00 Meet: At entrance to Bathwick Fields, Bathwick Hill, GR ST760647 Landranger 172/Explorer 155.  Bus No: 18 to Bathwick Hill. On street parking limited but there may be some in nearby side roads. Focus: General wildlife including flowering plants and bryophytes. Description: An exploration of the varied habitats and […]

Carr’s Wood/Newton Brook, Bath

Carr's Wood Bath

Leader: Alvan White Start: 10.30      Finish: Approx. 13:00 Meet: Metal 5 bar gate. GR ST 718650 Explorer Map 155. If coming from the city, pass through Twerton shops, onto Newton Road, take 1st right immediately after store on right hand side. Take 2nd right to T junction and the gate is immediately in front of […]

Bath City Farm – Bioblitz (part of Festival of Nature)

Bath City Farm Kelston View, Bath

Leaders and times: Various. Meet at Bath City Farm buildings, GR ST725641. There is a small car park but it is preferable to park locally and walk, or use public transport. Description: Part of the Festival of Nature, with events organised by Bathscape, Bath City Farm, Avon Wildlife Trust and Bath Nats members. Full details […]

Innox Park, Twerton, public event in Festival of Nature

Innox Park Freeview Road, Twerton, Bath

Leaders: Dan Merrett, Alan Feest, Rob Randall (public meeting, part of the Festival of Nature, no need to book.) Start: Short guided walks on the hour from 11:00 to 14:00 Meet: End of Freeview Road, GR ST726643. Park locally, walk, or use public transport. Description: Organised as part of the Festival of Nature. The Biodiversity […]

Lower Woods, Wetmoor

Lower Woods Lodge car park. GR ST 746882 Glos

Leaders: Clare and Mark Kitchen Start: 11:00      Finish: Approx. 16:00 Meet: Car park near the ranger's house, GR ST 746881, Landranger 172/Explorer 167 Focus: General interest but especially plants and insects of ancient woodland. Description: A joint meeting with the botany section of Gloucestershire Naturalists' Society. Ancient woodland enclosing meadows and clearings on the site […]

Go Slow around Bradford-On-Avon

Bradford Station St Margaret's Street

Leader: Felicity Gilmour Start: 10.30      Finish: Approx. 13.00 Meet:  Outside Bradford Station GR ST825606 Landranger 173/Explorer 156. Charges apply in the car park or there is free parking on Moulton Drive, GR ST827597 which is approx. 15 mins walk from the meeting point. Focus: Nesting swifts and local wildlife Description: We will look for nesting swifts […]

Kenfig Burrows NNR, South Wales, with Bath RSPB

Kenfig NNR

Leaders: Dave Newman and Rob Randall Coach: 7.30 start with various pick up points in Bath, to be advised on booking form. Focus: General interest, but Dave will lead a party concentrating on birds, Rob will lead on plants and insects. Description: National Nature Reserve comprising an extensive dune system (one of the largest and […]

East Woodlands (South east of Frome)

East Woodlands

Leaders: Jenny Vickers and Alvan White Start: 10:30      Finish: Approx. 13:00 Meet: East Woodlands Church, GR ST 790441 Landranger 183/Explorer 142. Focus: Flora and fauna, including Golden Ringed Dragonfly and Silver-washed Fritillary. Description: A slow stroll of about 1-2 km around the valley bottom. Uneven ground, walking boots recommended. Suggest bring food and drink. Please […]

Lansdown/Upper Weston

Lansdown Park & Ride

Leader: Glen Maddison Start: 10.00      Finish: Approx. 13.30 Meet: Lansdown Park & Ride BA1 9BJ approx 9.45 for prompt start! GR ST 732681 Focus: Resident breeding and summer migrant birds, butterflies and interesting invertebrates. Description: Roughly a circular walk, up to 4 miles, taking in playing-fields, farmland tracks and margins towards Langridge Farm, where we […]

CHANGE of DATE: Warren Hill near Tidworth

Benin Road, Perham Down Wiltshire

NB Because of the weater forecast for the original date (Wednesday 2 August) the leader has changed the date to Friday 4 August) Leader: Phillip Delve Start: 11:00      Finish: 15:00 Meet: Benin Road, Perham Down, Wiltshire, SP11 9FQ. GR SU 260484 Landranger 186 / Explorer 131 Directions: From the A338 at Tidworth, turn east into Station Rd. […]

Bushy Norwood, Claverton, Bath

Bath Cats & Dogs Home The Avenue, Bath

Leader: Lucy Starling Start: 10:30      Finish: Approx. 14:00 Meet: By entrance to Bath Cats and Dogs Home, The Avenue, GR ST 777638 Explorer Map 155. Post Code BA2 7AZ. Pay and Display car park at University or University bus up Bathwick Hill. Focus: Late summer butterflies, dragonflies, crickets, grasshoppers, limestone flora and migrant birds, possibly […]

Langford Lakes, Steeple Langford, Wilts

Langford Lakes

Leader: Tom Rogers Start: 10.00 Finish: Approx.13.00 (with optional extension) Meet: In reserve car park signpost directions in Steeple Langford off A36. GR SU 037370 Explorer 130/Landranger 184. Sat Nav Post Code SP3 4NH. Focus: Migrating waders, and other birds, dragonflies, and other insects. Possible Red KIte, Hobby and Osprey. Description: A circular walk around […]

Newton St Loe and Wilmington

Newton St. Loe Churchyard Newton St. Loe, Bath

Leader: Richard Bottle Start: 10:30 Finish: Approx. 14:30 Meet: in Newton St. Loe Churchyard. Grid Ref. ST 701649. Landranger 172/Explorer 155. Take care to park considerately in the village. Focus: General interest, local history, and natural history. Description: A varied circular walk of 4.3 miles, taking in the lakes and woods in the grounds of […]

Moths At Elm Farm, Burnett

Elm Farm Burnett, Keynsham

Hosts: Philippa and John Paget Leaders: Terry Doman and Phillip Delve Start: 9:00 Finish: Approx. 11:00 Meet: Elm Farm, Burnett, south of Keynsham off the B3116. GR ST 665651 Landranger 172/Explorer 155 Focus: Moths caught overnight, which may include interesting migrant species. Description: To view, record, then release moths caught the previous night by light […]

Members’ Evening – Short Talks by Members

BRLSI - Bath Royal Literary and Scientific Institution 16-18 Queen Square, Bath, Somerset

Venue: BRLSI, 16 Queen Square, Bath Please contact the President  if you wish to give a short talk. Doors open: 19:00 for refreshments and a chat. Start: 19:30 Finish: 21:00

Bat walk in Victoria Park

Royal Victoria Park Bath

Leader: Laura Mullholland Meet 7 pm. at the top of Cow Lane, ST742652. Laura will give a brief introduction explaining how bat detectors work, then  we will proceed towards the Botanical Gardens and the duck ponds where bat activity is usually at its greatest. Length of the meeting will depend largely on the weather.

Charmy Down

Charmy Down

Meet: Layby on Charmy Down side of the junction of the old and new A46, Upper Swainswick, ST761681, Landranger 172/Explorer 155 Focus: Plateau grassland, fungi, butterflies and grasshoppers. Description: The disused airfield is traditionally managed, and cattle graze each field in turn. As a result there are always ungrazed areas to provide food for grasshoppers […]

Fungi At Lord’s Wood, Near Pensford

Lord's Wood near Pensford

Leaders: Alan Rayner and Helena Crouch Start: 10:30 Finish: Approx. 14:30 Meet: Birchwood Lane, by the entrance to the NW corner of the wood. OS Grid Ref ST631633 From Chelwood Roundabout, take A37 north. Birchwood Lane is on the right about 0.6km north of the roundabout. Parking by the wood is limited so please lift […]

Spider Workshop: Kensington Meadows, Walcot, Bath

Kensington Meadows Walcot, Bath

Leader: Catherine Turner Start: 10:00 Finish: 12:00 Meet: Entrance from Morrisons car park, ST757658. Bus stops nearby. Landranger 172/Explorer 155. Focus: Spiders and their habits Description: A gentle stroll around the meadows and the riverside path looking for spiders and their webs. The varied nature of the vegetation should result in a wide range of […]

The Wrong Kind Of Bees

BRLSI - Bath Royal Literary and Scientific Institution 16-18 Queen Square, Bath, Somerset

Speaker: Steve Smailes. An introduction to Solitary Bees and Bumblebees, their diverse natures and lifestyles, both in the garden, and the wider countryside. Steve's uncle was a beekeeper so his interest in bees began at an early age. Doors open 7.00pm, for coffee and a chat, with proceedings beginning at 7.30pm £2 members  £4 guests […]

BNHS/RSPB – Slimbridge Wildfowl and Wetlands Reserve

Slimbridge Wetland Centre Bowditch,, Slimbridge, Gloucestershire

Replacement for cancelled coach trip to Ogmore by Sea previously scheduled for 14 October Leaders: Lucy Starling and Phillip Delve). Maximum participants 14.To book, contact Lucy Starling; members can find Lucy's contact details in their Autumn / Winter 2023-2024 newsletter.for the field trip of 28/4/2024 Start: 10:00 Finish: 15:00 Meet: WWT Centre. SAT NAV post […]

Cancelled: BNHS/RSPB Coach To Ogmore By Sea And Parc Slip

Ogmore By Sea Vale of Glamorgan

This event has been cancelled. Instead, on the same day Margaret Jones and Tom Rogers lead a trip  to Marshfield and on Wedenesday 11 October  Lucy Starling and Philip Delve will lead a visit to Slimbridge

BNHS/RSPB: Marshfield (replaces cancelled coach trip to Ogmore by Sea)

Marshfield

Leaders: Margaret Jones and Tom Rogers (contact Tom Rogers to book) Start: 10:00 Finish: 13:00 approx. Meet: Park in the Marshfield west layby, just off the A420 by Homes Barns, post code SN14 8JN, what3words: baroness.shift.poets Focus: Farmland birds, including Corn Bunting, Yellowhammer, Linnet, Skylark & Red Legged Partridge Description: Walk around the Marshfield area […]

Planning Meeting

BRLSI - Bath Royal Literary and Scientific Institution 16-18 Queen Square, Bath, Somerset

Help the Programme Committee plan our summer field programme and next year's indoor programme. Coincides with the BRLSI's coffee morning. Followed by a local field meeting - at Henrietta Park – see next event this date Wheelchair access is available by contacting  BRLSI reception 01225 312084E

Go Slow – Henrietta Park

Henrietta Park Bath, United Kingdom

Start: 13:00 Finish: 14:00 approx. Meet: Entrance by the Garden of Remembrance, Henrietta Street, ST752652. Restricted parking but there are bus stops and car parks nearby. Landranger 172/Explorer 155. Focus: Parkland trees and lichens Description: Stroll around the park taking in the autumn colours of the wide variety of trees and the lichens that grow […]

Bath’s Forgotten Trees

BRLSI - Bath Royal Literary and Scientific Institution 16-18 Queen Square, Bath, Somerset

Speaker: Hugh Williamson, one of the organisers of the Bath Urban Treescape trails. Doors open 7.00pm, for coffee and a chat, with proceedings beginning at 7.30pm £2 members  £4 guests Wheelchair access is available by contacting  BRLSI reception 01225 312084E

Snail Workshop, Keynsham Local Nature Reserve

Keynsham Local Nature Reserve Keynsham, near Bath

Leader: Andrew Daw Start: 10:30 Finish: 13.00 (weather permitting) Meet: Parking area at the end of Windrush Road (BS31 1PT), ST664677. Landranger 172/Explorer 155. Focus: Slugs and snails Description: A gentle stroll around the reserve, which includes woodland planted as part of the Forest of Avon project. Andy will be particularly looking for molluscs but […]

Moorlands Park to Beechen Cliff

Moorlands Park Englishcombe Lane,, Bath

Leaders: Hugh Williamson and Rob Randall Start: 10:00 Finish: 12:00 Meet: Bear Flat outside The Bear, ST745638. Landranger 172/Explorer 155. Several buses stop at Bear Flat, including the one from Odd Down Park & Ride. Focus: Urban trees and parkland wildlife Description: A stroll through the parks and streets of Bath taking in Moorlands Park, […]

Presidential Address: Strandline Plants and Dune Formation

BRLSI - Bath Royal Literary and Scientific Institution 16-18 Queen Square, Bath, Somerset

Speaker: Rob Randall. An in-depth study of the developing dune system in Sand Bay. Doors open 7.00pm, for coffee and a chat, with proceedings beginning at 7.30pm £2 members  £4 guests Wheelchair access is available by contacting  BRLSI reception 01225 312084E

New Year Plant Hunt

Leaders: TBA (contact Rob Randall for details and to book) This annual event is organised by the Botanical Society of Britain and Ireland and contributes much to our knowledge of changes due to our milder winters in much the same way as the RSPB's Big Garden Birdwatch. Please book in advance. Members can find contact […]

Annual General Meeting

Agenda to be published neaer the time Wheelchair access is available by contacting  BRLSI reception 01225 312084E

POSTPONED: Tour of Malaby Biogas, Bore Hill Farm, Warminster

Bore Hill Farm

The tour of the Malaby Biogas on Wednesday 24th January has been postponed till the summer. The visit to Shearwater Lake, also on the 24th January will go ahead as in the programme. Charge: £4 per person. Organiser: Penny Williamson Start: 10:30 Finish: 12:00 Meet: Bore Hill Farm, ST867436, BA12 8FB. Take first exit off […]

Langford Lakes, Steeple Langford, Wilts (change from Shearwater Lake)

Langford Lakes

Please note this event replaces the advertised visit to Shearwater Lake which is now cancelled. NB new start time, 2 hours earlier than previously advertised Leader: Phillip Delve Start: 10.30   Finish: 14:00 Meet: Reserve car park, postcode SP3 4NH,  OS grid ref SU037370 ,  /// package.vague.gradually Take the A36 towards Salisbury. Turn right approx 2miles beyond the A303 […]

Wildlife of Costa Rica

BRLSI - Bath Royal Literary and Scientific Institution 16-18 Queen Square, Bath, Somerset

Speaker: Kate Souter, Magazine Editor for Bath Nats. Kate will report on her recent holiday in the Caribbean. Doors open 7.00pm, for coffee and a chat, with proceedings beginning at 7.30pm £2 members  £4 guests Wheelchair access is available by contacting  BRLSI reception 01225 312084E

Go Slow Highbridge to Burnham on Sea (rail travel recommended)

Highbridge, Bank Street car park Market Street, Highbridge

This events replaces the Go Slow - Severn Beach visit originally planned for 15 February. Both date and venue have changed because of recent access difficulties. Birding but travelling by rail from Bath to Highbridge, walk from Highbridge to Burnham on Sea. Leader: Alvan White Start: 10:35am Meet: Highbridge, Bank Street car park (actually off […]

CANCELLED: Oldbury Court Estate and Glen Frome

Oldbury Court Estate

BNHS regrets that, following the sudden death of Rob Randall who was due to lead this event, it has been cancelled.  Leaders: Dylan Peters and Rob Randall Start: 13:00 Finish: 15:00 Meet: Pay & Display car park, ST635765. Landranger 172/Explorer 155. There are various routes to Fishponds then join the A432 (Yate road) and turn […]

BNHS/RSPB Coach To Portland Bill and Weymouth

Portland Bill & Weymouth

Leader: Dave Newman. Booking and prepayment essential by 23rd February 2024 Coach: 7:30 start with various pick up points in Bath, to be advised on booking form. Booking form: Download the booking form here Portland and Weymouth Booking form

Ferns of Bath

BRLSI - Bath Royal Literary and Scientific Institution 16-18 Queen Square, Bath, Somerset

Speaker: Dr. Helena Crouch, Botanical Recorder for VC6 (North Somerset) for the Botanical Society of Britain and Ireland and Secretary of Bath Nats. Ferns are one of Helena's favourite botanical subjects. This talk was originally scheduled for 4 March 2024 but had to be postponed. Doors open 7.00pm, for coffee and a chat, with proceedings […]

Compton Dando and Woollard

Compton Dando and Woollard

Leaders: Andrew Harrison and Helena Crouch Start: 11:00 Finish: 13:00 Meet: Compton Dando church, ST646646. Landranger 172/Explorer 155. Limited parking nearby so car-sharing advisable if possible. Focus: General interest Description: Walk of about 3.5 km along paths and tracks through woodland and grassland by the River Chew. The varied geology results in equally varied vegetation, […]

Spring tree walk – Royal Victoria Park

Royal Victoria Park Bath

Leader: Kate Souter Start 13:00 Finish 15:00 pm Meet: Entrance to Royal Avenue above Queen Square, ST745651. Landranger 172/Explorer 155. Focus: General interest Description: A walk of 1.5 miles following the tree gazing trail through Royal Victoria Park to the Botanical Gardens. As well as exploring the amazing trees, we will be looking out for […]

Bathwick to Bathampton via Batheaston

Beckford Road Bath

Please note numbers limited to 15. Leader: Lucy Starling Start: 9:30 Finish: 13:30 Meet: Beckford Road by the canal, ST 758654. Landranger 172/Explorer 155. No roadside parking nearby but buses stop on Beckford Road. Focus: Bird song, particularly warblers, butterflies and dragonflies. Hopefully, Sedge Warblers will have returned to breed in Bathampton Meadows NT fields. […]

Go-Slow at John Presland Reserve, Winsley

John Presland Reserve, Winsley

Leaders: Mike Williams and Alvan White Bookings: Alvan White Start: 10:30 Finish: 13:00 (with optional extension) Meeting place: Park on Limpley Stoke Road, BA15 2NP (first road into Winsley on R, after coming up Winsley Hill), Explorer 155 (ST 796 609), what3words: region.flash.faces Bus D1 stops at Winsley. Focus: Flora and fauna, but we hope […]

Photography Workshop At Friary, Hinton Charterhouse

Friary

Leader: Dan Swallow Bookings: Penny Williamson Prior booking and payment of £5 for Bath Nats members, £10* for non-members at least a week beforehand, please. (*£5 is redeemable for those joining Bath Nats on the day) Start: 10:00 Finish: 14:00 Meeting place: Friary is reached via Friary Wood Lane, a narrow steep road leading down […]