Holme-next-the-Sea (Day Trip)

Summary

Holme-next-the-Sea, located on the north Norfolk coast, is a prime location for observing autumn migration. The diverse habitats, including coastal dunes, salt marshes, freshwater pools, and woodlands, make it an ideal spot for a variety of migratory birds. 

Joining our leader, we will begin our day at the Holme Bird Observatory to conduct a sea watch. Offshore sightings might include species of diver, grebe and seaduck, arriving skeins of Pink-footed Geese and Brent Geese, and if we are lucky, skuas. On the beach, we could see Bar-tailed Godwit and Sanderling.

In the observatory grounds, we will look for migrant passerines such as warblers and flycatchers, with a good chance of Yellow-browed Warbler, and the possibility of Brambling. If we are lucky, we will see birds ‘in the hand’ being ringed by the observatory staff. On the grazing marshes and lagoons, we could see Marsh Harrier and Pink-footed Geese, with other possibilities including Great White Egret, Spoonbill, and Bearded Tit.

From the observatory, we will make our way to the Holme Dunes visitor centre for refreshments before proceeding around the Holme Dunes reserve, Gore Point, Redwell Marsh for the main walk of the day. Here, we will continue to look for migrant passerines while keeping an eye on the marshes and sea for waders, wildfowl, and seabirds. Species encountered on this walk in past years include Common Redstart, Ring Ouzel, and Snow Bunting. We anticipate that this walk will be about 3 miles, and as well as exploring the Holme Dunes reserve, it gets off the beaten track to some little-known but attractive locations.

After lunch we will visit a number of hides overlooking freshwater pools, as well as some other less well-known nature areas on the fringes of the village. Here again we will be ‘off the beaten track’, making it more likely that any interesting discoveries will be our own.

We will cover around 4-5 miles during the day. The terrain during the day is mostly flat, apart from a few small rises in the dunes. Sturdy, waterproof walking shoes or boots are advised. 

Please note that the cost of entry to the Holme Bird Observatory (Norfolk Ornithologists Association) and Holme Dunes (Norfolk Wildlife Trust) is not included in the cost of this day trip and must be paid locally. Observatory entry is £5 for non-members, and entry to Holme Dunes is £4 for non-members.