About the event

Header image credit: John Potter

Big skies, often full of whirling flocks of birds in winter, stretch out above you. The Derwent flows quietly by, reeds rustle in the breeze and a mysterious 'plop' in the ditches might signal a pike, water vole or even otter. In fact, at times in the centre of Wheldrake Ings, it can be so peaceful and remote that you feel like the only person on earth.

Discover more about Wheldrake Ings, what we've been working on there and the wildlife that frequents the reserve on this Yorkshire Wildlife Trust members' event.

The day will start at Bank Island with a talk by the reserves team who look after this peaceful reserve. You'll find out about what we do behind-the-scenes to manage the reserve as well as the data that we use, the surveys that we carry out and how we monitor the impact on the reserve. Refreshments of tea, coffee and biscuits will be provided.

Once you've learnt more about the reserve, it's time to get rambling! Led by a Yorkshire Wildlife Trust staff member, you'll go on a guided ramble up to and around the reserve to discover more about the wildlife on the reserve and in the surrounding area.

This walk will be around 4 miles round. There is one linear route which has been surfaced with chippings but can be uneven with pot holes, Grass grows through the track which is cut sporadically.

Entrance to the bridge is over the metal bridge across the river Derwent and turn right. The main metal field gate is usually open and locked at night. A metal kissing gate to the side is inaccessible for prams and wheelchairs.