Celebrate the arrival of spring with a guided morning exploring one of Europe’s most important wetlands. Join local Countryside Manager, James Chubb, for an immersive birdwatching walk along the internationally renowned Exe Estuary, where seasonal migration brings the landscape vividly to life.
As spring migration gathers pace, the estuary’s rich mudflats and tidal waters become a hub of activity. Resident species such as oystercatcher and little egret are joined by migrating visitors pausing on remarkable long-distance journeys, while gulls, curlew and other waders animate the shoreline.
Hedgerows and coastal scrub resonate with birdsong, where species such as blackcap, chiffchaff and whitethroat announce their arrival, and the open skies may deliver the year’s first swallows. Within the grounds of Lympstone Manor, the diversity of wildlife can be surprising, from woodland birds flitting through the trees to early signs of amphibian life in the ponds.
Designed for novice to intermediate birdwatchers, the walk offers practical guidance on identifying waders, wildfowl and songbirds, alongside engaging insights into the habitats, seasonality and extraordinary migratory journeys of the species encountered.
Following the walk, relax and reflect over a three-course lunch in our Pool House restaurant, accompanied by a glass of Lympstone Manor Estate Classic Cuvée and a glass of wine or non-alcoholic alternative.
Guests are encouraged to bring binoculars if they have them, although a selection of optics will be available on the day.
Spring Nature Walk and Lunch with James Chubb
10.00am Tea and coffee on arrival
10.30am Morning of birdwatching on the Exe estuary
12 noon Take your seats in the Pool House Restaurant for your lunch experience with a glass of Lympstone Manor Estate Classic Cuvée
12.30pm Lunch served with a glass of wine or non-alcoholic alternative and coffee after lunch.
15.30pm Event close
This event will commence at 10.00am with tea and coffee on arrival for an informative Spring Nature Walk and Lunch event with James Chubb.
Lunch will be held in our Pool House Restaurant and Bar and James will be joining the table to discuss the mornings activities.
The weather may be changeable so please dress appropriately including good walking shoes or boots.
The walk will take around an hour and a half including stops. The route can be uneven and muddy so people with limited mobility may struggle and this tour is not fully wheelchair friendly. No dogs allowed on this guided walk. Please ask our Reservation Team if you have any questions regarding accessibility for this event.
We look forward to welcoming you to Lympstone Manor.
James Chubb Bio
James’ background includes Education Ranger at Wild East Devon, working with local schools and group to enthuse them with the fabulous wildlife and wild places in the District. James writes a monthly wildlife column in Devon Life magazine, hosts Bear Grylls’ Gone Wild festivals in Devon and Norfolk and is the voice of English Rugby as stadium announcer at Twickenham.
Find out more about Wild East Devon.
Prepayment required on booking to make a confirmed reservation.
Event is non-amendable, non-refundable.
