What’s On at RSPB Arne

If you’re looking for unforgettable wildlife experiences this autumn and winter, RSPB Arne is the place to be. Nestled on the edge of Poole Harbour, this internationally important reserve offers a unique mix of heathland, woodland, and coastal habitats – and this season, the events programme is packed with rare opportunities to connect with nature.

Here’s what’s on at RSPB Arne

Reptile Survey Walk

📅 23rd September | 💷 £39.00
Step behind the scenes and join an exclusive reptile survey at Arne, one of the only places in the UK where all six native reptiles can be found – including Sand Lizards and Smooth Snakes. This special walk takes you into sensitive areas of the reserve with the chance to see some of Britain’s rarest species. (For older children and adults, booking essential.)

Sunrise Guided Walk

📅 28th September | 💷 £23.00
Experience the magic of dawn over Poole Harbour. Starting at 6am, this gentle walk leads you through ancient woodland and open heath, arriving at the shoreline just as the sun rises. A peaceful, soul-stirring start to the day.

Wildlife Lagoon Walks – Celebrating 60 Years of Arne

📅 4th & 5th October | 💷 £23.00
To mark 60 years of RSPB conservation at Arne, explore a rarely-seen part of the reserve. Wander through tranquil heathland and woodland before reaching a secluded saline lagoon – a haven for birdlife and a landscape usually off-limits to visitors.

🌟 Special Edition: Wildlife Lagoon Walk with Jack Baddams (BBC Springwatch)
📅 4th & 5th October | 💷 £39.00
Join wildlife presenter Jack Baddams for a celebratory walk through this remarkable landscape.

Bird Fest: Talk with Jack Baddams

📅 4th October  | 💷 £13.00
BBC Springwatch’s Jack Baddams shares his passion for birds and the natural world in an engaging talk full of insight and inspiration.

Full Moon Guided Walks – Women Only

• Hunters Moon – 📅 7th October | 5:30pm | 💷 £23.00
• Beaver Moon – 📅 6th November | 3:30pm | 💷 £23.00
• Cold Moon – 📅 4th December | 3:00pm | 💷 £23.00

Created by women, for women, these moonlit woodland walks offer a safe, welcoming, and deeply atmospheric way to experience Arne after dark. Pause to soak in the calm, listen to the night, and enjoy the reserve under the glow of the full moon.

Biofluorescence in Nature – Night Walk

📅 17th October | 💷 £31.00
Discover nature’s hidden glow! Armed with UV torches, explore woodland and heathland after dark to see fungi and other wildlife in a new light. This exciting night-time adventure reveals a whole unseen world.

A Dorset Christmas Festival: Pull a Pine

📅 29th & 30th November | 💷 £17.50
One of the UK’s biggest conservation events returns! Help protect Arne’s precious heathland by cutting your own pine tree to take home for Christmas. Not only will you leave with a tree, you’ll also be helping rare wildlife like Dartford Warblers and Sand Lizards. Read more about the Pull a Pine event

Plan Your Visit

RSPB Arne’s seasonal events offer a chance to step into nature in ways few ever do – whether it’s sunrise on the shoreline, moonlight in the woods, or festive conservation with a purpose. Spaces are limited, so booking is essential.

📧 For more details or to book, contact arne@rspb.org.uk or see the details on the RSPB website. 

Note: This event listing is a guide only. For up to date information and or changes to the event please check with the organiser or venue.