The Somerset Levels

Tour Code: GBR11

An exciting two days on the wonderful Somerset Levels in search of a whole host of special species and culminating with the spectacular Starling roost.

3 days from
£485 (land only)

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Highlights

Summary

The magical movements and acrobatics of a million roosting Starlings. Bitterns. Huge congregations of wintering wildfowl, Lapwings and Golden Plovers. Birds of prey; amongst them the possibility of Barn Owls, Marsh and Hen Harriers, Peregrine and for the very fortunate Merlin. These are just some of the possible highlights on offer at this special expanse of seasonally inundated lowlands that spans 650 square kilometres between the Quantock and Mendip Hills. This ancient habitat, that until recently had fallen victim to drainage and other modern farming demands, has now been restored to much of its former glory by the RSPB and other conservation bodies. It is a heartening modern-day conservation 'success story'!

Enjoy the aerial artistry of a million-strong Starlings as they gather at dusk prior to roosting
The optional opportunity to return at dawn to watch the Starlings emerge from the roost
Bittern, Great White Egret, and Bearded Tit regularly seen
Special effort to find the Cranes which have been re-introduced to the area and now breed
Birds of prey including Marsh Harrier and Peregrine with large concentrations of wintering wildfowl & waders
A 3-star hotel, with award-winning restaurant, beside the cathedral in the historic market town of Wells
Led by expert naturalist guides

Grading

Easy day walks only.

The Somerset Levels, a magical expanse of seasonally inundated lowlands that spans 650 square kilometres between the Quantock and Mendip Hills, is a conservation ‘success story’! An ancient habitat that, until recently, had fallen victim to drainage and other modern farming demands, has now been restored to much of its former glory by the RSPB and other conservation bodies. Indeed the area supports such a rich variety of plant and birdlife that it is under consideration for status as a World Heritage Site.

Our visit is timed to coincide with the massive flocks of wildfowl that gather here during the winter, when internationally important numbers of Wigeon, Gadwall, Teal, Pintail and Shoveler are present. Another species found here in vast flocks is the Starling, made famous in recent years by BBC coverage. A dusk outing to watch hundreds of thousands of birds swirling over their roost sites makes for breathtaking viewing. The other star attraction of the area is the Bittern. Habitat creation has, in recent years, attracted several breeding pairs, and in winter these are joined by migrants, giving us a good chance of seeing one standing among the reeds or flying across the vast reedbeds.

There are small numbers of wintering raptors such as Short-eared Owl, Merlin, Peregrine, Marsh Harrier and Hen Harrier, and in recent winters it has been possible to watch Great White Egret alongside Little Egret with regularity. This superb bird bred in the UK for the first time in 2012 and chose the Somerset levels in which to do so, such is the extent and quality of the habitat. Another bird which we will hope to encounter is the Common Crane which has been re-introduced here as part of the Great Crane Project. It can be unpredictable as to their whereabouts but many have been lucky.

Otters do occur on the Somerset Levels, though few are lucky enough to see them on such a short visit.

There is a very special quality to the landscape and wildlife of the Somerset Levels, and there are wonderful views across Glastonbury Tor, Deer Leap and Wookey. Indeed a visit here in winter can offer a host of rewards, so please do join us on this ever-popular Naturetrek short break!

DETAILED INFORMATION

Itinerary

Outline Itinerary

Day 1

Arrive Wells.

Day 2/3

Somerset Levels; Avalon Marshes; King's Sedgemoor; West Sedgemoor.

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What's Included

What's Included?

Accommodation: A comfortable 3-star hotel, with an award-winning restaurant, in the historic market town of Wells; all rooms have private facilities.
Food: Breakfasts and 3-course evening meals included in the price.

Reviews

Starting with meeting the tour guide at the hotel to ending the trip I couldn't fault the experience. The hotel room was very comfortable and the food very good. The tour guide was well prepared and knowledgeable as well as being friendly. He knew where to find good places to see as many birds as we could and could spot them when we probably wouldn't have. Although I was fairly late in booking the holiday the tour operator was able to accommodate me and phoned back as promised to confirm my booking. They were polite and helpful. Documentation was sent out promptly. Information on the website was accurate and clear.
J.D. Derbyshire, Jan 24
It was only 3 days but we had a packed itinerary to see over 60 different bird species. The real attraction for the trip was to see a starling murmuration and that did not disappoint. As a nature and wildlife enthusiast, Naturetrek are one of the best tour operators for me. I was impressed by the experience and enthusiasm of the tour leader - and that is so important to nature holidays. It was excellent value for money given the itinerary and the accommodation/food.
D.D. London, Feb 22
Despite travelling on what was probably the worst weekend of weather for decades, we set out from London after being advised to stay at home. Joining a group who were much more experienced bird watchers than us we soon settled into the rhythm of the group and got excited at the thought of the programme of visits. There were many highlights but the magic of watching the starling murmuration both in the evening and then the following morning was truly breath-taking and humbling. The guides on this tour, Matt and David, shared so much knowledge and has inspired me to do more of these visits. You cannot ask for much more than returning home with an enhanced curiosity of wildlife. Definitely an inspiration and a tonic after months of pandemic lockdown.
V.H. London, Feb 22

A three day birdwatching break on the Somerset Levels in winter may not be everyone's idea of a holiday, but not only did we have fine weather, our two guides were well informed and great fun. The group gelled well and we enjoyed a fine hotel and good food. As ever, Naturetrek had organised everything very well. Always great service and attention to detail.
C.T Northamptonshire, Feb 22

As always with Naturetrek, the enthusiasm and knowledge of the leaders Matt and Chris really made the holiday. Bird highlights have to be the amazing encounter we had with a group of about 7 Bearded Tits in front of the hide at RSPB Greylake which happily hung around and almost posed for photos and of course watching around 400,000 starlings coming in to roost on both evenings was just a jaw dropping experience.
C.W. Kent. Dec '21

Effortlessly well organised but at the same time fun, relaxed and unhurried with many opportunities for fascinating chats with our inspiring tour leaders. The trip was highly professional and informative.
R.M. Hertfordshire, Jan 20

This was a tour guide led holiday in the Somerset Levels with the main highlight being to see murmurations of starlings but also to take in all the wonderful wildlife in Somerset in the winter. The holiday base was in Wells. A lovely place with easy access to the levels and the hotel was lovely. Nature performed wonderfully. There were 2 evening views of the starling roost - each one different! The early morning view of the starlings flying back into the fields was incredible. Well worth getting up early. Each day we travelled to a different part of the levels to see the range of waterfowl. Great views of cranes with the addition of hearing their special calls! A great holiday.
E.H. Cambridgeshire, Jan 20

A great chance to see the amazing starling murmuration with up to 500,000 birds displaying over the reed beds each night. These produced an amazing spectacle accompanied by the resident sparrowhawks, peregrines, marsh and hen harriers. Despite the poor weather we were able to get out and about in other parts of the levels seeing thousands of wintering wildfowl and several common cranes.
J.F. Nottinghamshire, Jan 20

We had 3 nights in Wells and two full days out exploring the Somerset Levels with our guides who were very knowledgeable and helpful. We saw a lot of species I have never seen before and learnt so much.
V.M. Cambridgeshire

Mind blowing experience watching the starling murmuration. Both Matts were absolutely brilliant with 20-20++vision. Got us all the birds we wanted to see. What more... thank you Naturetrek!
L.L. London Jan 20

I loved going out before dawn, with the almost full moon shining, to watch the starlings rise out of the reed beds on Sunday morning, and hearing the amazing sound of their wings beating in preparation for the rise. Unforgettable. Seeing the murmuration gather and pour in on both evenings was equally memorable, and watching the waders from the private hide on Sunday as well. The guides' knowledge and enthusiasm were extraordinary and it was a great pleasure to spend time with them.
L.H. London, Jan 20

This was the 1st dedicated birding holiday I have ever done though I've been on many animal wildlife ones with lots of birds included. I was rather worried that all the guests would be experts but there was a mixture of knowledge and experience. The group were very friendly and the 2 leaders were excellent with a wide knowledge and enthusiasm for birds and the environment.
S.B. London, Dec 19

Short break for bird watching, especially hoping to see starling murmurations on the Somerset Levels. In spite of rather inclement weather our two tour guides were able to show us a range of habitats and some amazing spectacles of bird behaviour.
A.L. Hertfordshire, Dec 19

We stayed at the Swan Hotel in Wells, which was very convenient for the Levels. The food was very good, and the staff were charming. Our 2 days were spent in different areas of the Levels, each quite different to the other. The weather was considerably better than the forecast, only 2 showers when we were luckily in the excellent hides, of which there are plenty. The local pubs we ate in served very good food. Matt Collis and Chris Griffin were both excellent guides, very friendly and helpful to novice birders. Their local knowledge of the area was first class, and they managed to get us to the exact spot where the starlings were going to roost, the best murmuration they had seen in years. We thoroughly enjoyed the whole trip, and recommend it to all levels of bird watchers.
M.B. Essex, Feb 19

It was action-packed to maximise experiences over a weekend, and expertly led by the 2 leaders. The hotel was in a lovely location and very comfortable... I have nothing but praise for Naturetrek and wouldn't dream of holidaying with any other operator now. I have had 4 memorable breaks with them and have already booked 2 more this year.
G.C. Devon, Feb 19

It was a guided tour of the best birding sites on the Somerset Levels. Our tour guides took us to excellent vantage points to see numerous types of birds throughout the two days and the Starling Murmuration both evenings, which exceeded all my expectations, and the great take off of the roosting starlings one morning. Our first experience of Naturetrek and it will not be the last as the organisation was first class and the tour guides were very knowledgeable and amiable.
A.M. Kent, Jan 19

Great hotel in Wells with good room and lovely food. Organised birdwatching to places that I would never found alone with knowledgeable guides and comfortable transport. Highlight was 3 visits to the 800,000 starlings roosting on the wetland reeds with some incredible views of murmurations. The noise and movement has to be seen to be believed. One of my bucket list achieved well in above of expectations!
K.S. Hertfordshire, Jan 19

Matt and David were fantastic, so knowledgeable. In particular, Matt has incredible knowledge of birds and birdsong, plus he is a great communicator with a good sense of humour. We (myself and sister) really appreciated both leaders and their skills were complementary. I was very very impressed!
S.P. Avon, Jan 19

First time on a birdwatching holiday to tick a bucket list item: the starling murmuration. The starlings performed beautifully and we were in the right spot thanks to great naturalist leaders. Seems whatever we threw at them (I want to see a bittern, a kingfisher on a perch, a crane....) the guys managed to deliver. Very impressive and a great short break overall.
R.C. London

We enjoyed two days of birdwatching in a number of locations on the Somerset levels with a small group of friendly people. Our two tour guides were very knowledgeable and eager to ensure that everyone got the maximum out of the two days, even to the extent of going off itinerary to take us out before dawn to see millions of starlings leaving their roost. We had an excellent holiday and would recommend it to anyone with an interest in the natural world.
P.P. Cheshire

The time was very well organized, allowing us to appreciate different areas and maximize our chances of seeing many birds. One reason I chose the holiday was to see the starlings. We saw them come in to roost right in front of us and the sound was amazing.
K.T. Staffordshire

Within two short winter days travelling through the wetlands of the Somerset Levels I was introduced to some of the many birds that frequent these fertile peat rich wild places. The Naturetrek guides were incredibly knowledgeable and enthusiastic and with their patient guidance I saw for the first time a Bearded Tit, a Great White Egret and a Stonechat. Reacquainted with elusive Kingfisher and introduced to the starling murmuration I left Wells for home sure that I had had the very best short break possible.
O.M. Kent

A wonderful trip to see the Starling Murmuration in the Somerset Levels. Seen not once, but three times. We were also fortunate enough to see a Wildfowl Murmuration as well. It was one of the 'must see' wildlife sights.
G.C. Hertfordshire

We stayed for 2 nights at the Swan Hotel in the lovely city of Wells. On our first evening we were given interesting information which covered the history and geography of the area we were going to visit in the following days. Everything was very well organised and the two leaders were knowledgeable about the wildlife we could possibly see. Nothing seemed too much for them and when on the first day we saw a spectacular starling roost we were offered the chance to return the following morning at dawn to watch the starlings leave their roost. It was a beautiful sunrise and a thrilling sight.
P.A. South Yorkshire

This trip was really fantastic, with exceptional tour guides. We were able to see far more bird species than we would have spotted on our own. The experience of the starling murmuration was really spectacular! The food was great too.
E.R. Leicestershire

Thank you to whoever thought of this holiday and then put it together! We have driven past or through it for 20 years and never explored it!
V.A. London

Both leaders were very good, helpful and willing to help you identify birds. The accommodation was also excellent.
S.W. Worcestershire

This short holiday was made particularly enjoyable - and satisfying from the point of view of seeing wildlife - by the 2 leaders, Dave and Mike. As not particularly experienced birdwatchers, we were never intimidated by them, but their levels of local knowledge were such that we came away from the holiday feeling we had learnt a great deal from them.
Mr & Mrs W. Greater Manchester

Both guides - Ed and Charles - were excellent and, as well as having excellent knowledge of the area and its wildlife, had a real passion for the area and the birds. Their hard work in ensuring the success of the trip is much appreciated.
C.W. Warwickshire

The number of reserves covered was good and the selection of habitats - also the knowledge of the two leaders - Dave and David, was excellent - they encouraged us to ask questions freely. They were very organised and everything ran smoothly. I enjoyed the massive numbers of starlings we saw - an incredible sight and sound, and the hunting peregrine. The hotel and food were also excellent.
J.S. Devon

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Dates & Prices

2025

Departures Availability Cost

Wed 8th Jan – Fri 10th Jan FULL £485

Land only cost:

The "Land Only" cost is the tour price you will pay if you choose to arrange your own flights/transport.

£485

Single Room Supplement:

Single Room Supplement.

£75

Tour Leader:

Please note that, whilst we assign leaders to particular tours well in advance, we reserve the right to make changes if necessary

Adrian Langdon

Tour Leader: Adrian Langdon

Wed 22nd Jan – Fri 24th Jan 5 £485

Book Tour Show Details

Land only cost:

The "Land Only" cost is the tour price you will pay if you choose to arrange your own flights/transport.

£485

Single Room Supplement:

Single Room Supplement.

£75

Tour Leader:

Please note that, whilst we assign leaders to particular tours well in advance, we reserve the right to make changes if necessary

Adrian Langdon

Tour Leader: Adrian Langdon

Wed 5th Feb – Fri 7th Feb 6 £485

Book Tour Show Details

Land only cost:

The "Land Only" cost is the tour price you will pay if you choose to arrange your own flights/transport.

£485

Single Room Supplement:

Single Room Supplement.

£75

Wed 10th Dec – Fri 12th Dec SPACES £485

Book Tour Show Details

Land only cost:

The "Land Only" cost is the tour price you will pay if you choose to arrange your own flights/transport.

£485

Single Room Supplement:

Single Room Supplement.

£75

Tour Leader:

Please note that, whilst we assign leaders to particular tours well in advance, we reserve the right to make changes if necessary

Oliver Smart

Tour Leader: Oliver Smart

Following a childhood fascination with the natural world, Oliver went on to study ornithology at the University of Birmingham during his mid-twenties. Alongside an emerging interest in photography, learning the art of bird ringing and volunteering for the Avon Wildlife Trust, BTO and RSPB, Oliver has put time to good use. His main passion is birds and through photography he has built a diverse collection of imagery, which is represented by both RSPB Images and Alamy. Combined with a desire to travel, Oliver has explored many parts of the world; his favourite destinations usually including a seabird colony or two, where the sight, sound, smell and opportunities for a photographer are second to none. His claim to fame to date though is an image he took in the Seychelles which has been used on a bank note!

2026

Departures Availability Cost

Wed 7th Jan – Fri 9th Jan SPACES £495

Book Tour Show Details

Land only cost:

The "Land Only" cost is the tour price you will pay if you choose to arrange your own flights/transport.

£495

Single Room Supplement:

Single Room Supplement.

£85

Wed 21st Jan – Fri 23rd Jan SPACES £495

Book Tour Show Details

Land only cost:

The "Land Only" cost is the tour price you will pay if you choose to arrange your own flights/transport.

£495

Single Room Supplement:

Single Room Supplement.

£85

Wed 4th Feb – Fri 6th Feb SPACES £495

Book Tour Show Details

Land only cost:

The "Land Only" cost is the tour price you will pay if you choose to arrange your own flights/transport.

£495

Single Room Supplement:

Single Room Supplement.

£85

Wed 9th Dec – Fri 11th Dec SPACES £495

Book Tour Show Details

Land only cost:

The "Land Only" cost is the tour price you will pay if you choose to arrange your own flights/transport.

£495

Single Room Supplement:

Single Room Supplement.

£85

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Among our programme is a significant range of short breaks, designed specially for those wishing to enjoy some of Europe’s top natural history highlights at the best time of year. All of these holidays have the bonus of being short-haul and supported by like-minded wildlife enthusiasts.
Naturetrek Short Break Wildlife Tours
Short breaks are becoming increasingly popular and in response to the high demand for this type of holiday we are continuing to increase our programme both within the UK and abroad. Most of our short breaks are within Europe, for convenience of travel.
For some of our mini-breaks there is an option to travel by plane or train, and we offer a choice of duration and type of break, from a weekend’s birdwatching in the Somerset Levels to a 6-day whale watching tour in the Azores.
A selection of our UK short breaks:

A winter bird watching break in Norfolk
An autumn holiday to enjoy the Red Deer rut in Ardnamurchan, Scotland
A wildlife weekend in the New Forest

A selection of our overseas short breaks:

In Spain we look for the world’s rarest cat, the Iberian Lynx
Wolves on the plains in rural northern Spain
An exploration of La Brenne’s exceptionally rich butterfly-life in northern France

 

 
Our specialist recommends...





"We offer two superb short breaks to the lovely island of Madeira in search of whales, dolphins and seabirds. It’s hard to beat our Just Brown Bears trip for families, while if you fancy something off the beaten track, try Estonia in Early Spring for some excellent spring birdwatching." 

Paul Stanbury - Operations Manager

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The majority of our wildlife tours focus primarily on birds, allowing us to offer a huge choice of bird holidays. On most of our birdwatching tours we aim to see a wide variety of species, while taking time to enjoy other wildlife as well as cultural highlights and architecture.
Naturetrek Birdwatching Tours
We have one of the largest selections of professionally organised, small group birdwatching holidays around the world and all of our birdwatching tours are accompanied by at least one professional ornithologist leader with detailed knowledge of the area.
The majority of our bird tours have a relaxed, flexible approach which allows more time for photography, detailed wildlife exploration, leisure time and the region’s people, culture, history and architecture, while allowing the group to see a wide range of bird species.

Here is a small selection of our many bird holidays:

Southern Morocco – an exploration of the birdlife in Morocco’s southern deserts, oases and mountains
The Camargue in Spring – a short break to enjoy the spring birds of the Rhône Delta and Camargue wetland
Wallcreepers & Cranes in Northern Spain – a 2-centre holiday focusing on Lammergeier, Wallcreepers, raptors, Cranes, bustards, sandgrouse and more!
Madeira & Desertas Islands – A Seabird Extravaganza! – a short break focusing on special breeding seabirds, including a night on the remote Destertas Islands
Peru – Macaws & Machu Picchu – searches for boobies, macaws and Inca Terns
Spain & Morocco: Birding on Two Continents! – watch the spectacular spring bird migration from both sides of the Straits of Gibraltar

Our Bargain Birdwatching Selection
Our Bargain Bird Tours are intensive birdwatching holidays suitable for the serious birder. They are led by expert English-speaking local guides (and not accompanied from the UK by a tour leader). You can expect a higher-paced tour and to spend long hours in the field.
 

Our specialist recommends...


"Try Coto Doñana & Extremadura for an excellent introduction to Europe's wetland and steppe birds. I would recommend our bargain holiday, 'Nepal – A Birdwatching Tour' for those interested in Siberian rarities and Ibisbill, while Costa Rica offers a chance to search for arguably the world's most beautiful bird, the Resplendent Quetzal."

Byron Palacios - Tour Leader

  
 
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Prefer to Travel in a Private Group?

For any interested natural history club or society, we can arrange for a private departure of this tour.

Enquire

Tour Reports

Tour report - January 2023

Tour report - December 2022

Tour report - January 2022

Tour report - December 2021

Tour report - February 2020

Tour report - January 2020

Tour report - December 2019

Tour report - December 2018

Tour report - February 2018

Tour report - January 2018

Tour report - December 2017

Tour report - May 2017

Tour report - February 2017

Tour report - January 2017

Tour report - December 2016

Tour report - February 2016

Tour report - January 2016

Tour report - December 2015

Tour report - May 2015

Tour report - February 2015

Tour report - February 2014

Tour report - January 2014

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Tour report - February 2012

Tour report - May 2011

Tour report - February 2011

Tour report - February 2010

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Why Naturetrek?

At Naturetrek we craft expertly-guided group and tailor-made wildlife holidays and cruises to all seven continents. On one of our holidays, you can be assured that our passionate team will enable you to experience and enjoy the best of the world's wildlife and natural spectacles in as comfortable and rewarding a manner as possible, caring as best we can for the environment in the process. We are proud to provide:

The widest choice of wildlife holidays worldwide
Tours managed and led by naturalists, for naturalists
Outstanding value and exceptional customer service

Furthermore, as a Naturetrek client, our office team are always to on hand to help you – so if you have any queries about your holiday, whether before or after you have booked, we will be delighted to answer them on the phone. Please just give our team a call!