For lovers of natural history and the countryside, and an eye opener for anyone wishing to improve awareness of the natural world. Walk contrasting Cumbrian sites where conservation management has helped the habitats of rare butterflies including the Marsh Fritillary, Mountain Ringlet, Small Blue and The Forester. Lecture presentations in the evening will consider wider
Magnificent scree-covered slopes, tranquil lakes, hanging oak woodlands and dramatic sea cliffs are just a few of Cumbria's habitats which we will be exploring on this 5-day course. There will be short local trips to sample the best of Cumbria's summer birdlife including Wheatears, Ring Ouzels, Redstarts, Pied Flycatchers Wood Warblers and Ospreys to name
The landscapes of northern Britain are decorated with an array of symbols carved into stone surfaces over 5000 years ago. In this course we will explore what these intriguing symbols can tell us about the people who made them – what their world was like, and what mattered to them. These abstract marks are found
Take a journey through time exploring the lesser-known inner Solway estuary coast of both Cumbria and Dumfries & Galloway. This is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and Special Area of Conservation with internationally important salt marshes, sand dunes and wetlands; it is also rich in history, local culture and stories. It is renowned for
It has been estimated that 59% of all species on earth live in soil. This talk will explore the vast diversity of soil life: how it is distributed, what it does, and what threats it is under. The talk will also explore what can be done to protect and promote soil life and the critical
Gain a better understanding of different tree species and their ecosystems, their relationships with fungi, soil and other trees, and how we depend on them; learn about the differences between native, exotic and naturalised trees and where they might be found. This course will involve some gentle guided walks (on the level) through local woodlands