Norfolk Birding - April 2026

Norfolk Birding - April 2026

The reserves on the north coast are famous but the southern and western areas are less visited. This part of the county consists of a range of diverse habitats which in turn attract a wide variety of species from Brent Geese gathering on the saltmarshes of The Wash, Eurasian Bitterns and Common Cranes skulking in and around the reedbeds of the Fens, to the rare Eurasian Stone-curlew on the lowland heaths. In spring, woodland and scrubland come alive with the songs of returning Common Nightingales and European Turtle Doves. 

Our three day trip will start at RSPB Frampton Marsh, situated on the edge of the UK’s largest and most important estuary, The Wash. Meeting early morning we will spend the whole day at this premier reserve, taking the trails around the reedbeds, along the sea wall and across the lagoons. Winter and spring collide at this time of year with Brent Geese and Eurasian Wigeon gathering to head north, passage waders such as Little Ringed Plover, Ruff, Spotted Redshank and Common Snipe stopping to refuel, and alongside them an influx of newly arrived summer migrants such as Common Terns, Sand Martins, Sedge Warblers, and Reed Warblers.

Day two will start with a visit to Weeting Heath to observe the newly arrived Stone-curlews, the Norfolk Wildlife Trust’s hides giving exceptional views of this enigmatic wader of the heath. This specialised habitat also provides excellent breeding sites for Woodlark and the surrounding woodland host Common Crossbill and Tree Pipit. Our tour will move on to RSPB Lakenheath for the rest of the day where Common Cranes have bred in recent years and there were 17 booming pairs of Bittern in 2024. At this time, in April both Eurasian Hobby and Common Cuckoo should have arrived and Garganey breed on the adjacent Little Ouse.

Starting early on day three at Maids Cross local nature reserve, near Brandon, we will aim to soak up a chorus of Nightingales and other songbirds before heading to Lynford Arboretum for a chance to spot Firecrest and Hawfinch as well as other woodland birds. The tour will finish at lunchtime, and The Sheperd’s Baa, the onsite café makes a good place to replenish before heading home.

Whats Included:

• Expert Guide: Margaret Boyd YCN Guide
• Small group of six for unrivalled opportunities to interact with your guide.

Not Included:

• Accomodation. Recommendations will be made on where to book
• Travel and food
• Entrance fees and car parking 

Cost: £480/person