
Winter in the Heart of England Forest Arboretum
Experience the quiet beauty of winter on a 2.5-hour guided walk with Forest Rangers Sam and Lauren through the Dorsington Arboretum and surrounding woodlands. Discover striking tree silhouettes, evergreen colour, and subtle signs of wildlife as the forest settles into its colder season. Along the way, Sam and Lauren will share insights into native and international tree species, highlight winter’s unique features, and introduce you to the resilient wildlife that continues to thrive during this time of year.
December 2025
Winter Solstice Sunset Stroll
As the winter sun sets, join us for a tranquil stroll through the Forest taking in the natural beauty of our west-facing viewpoint, perfect for capturing the final golden light of the year’s shortest day. Join us for a warming glass of mulled wine before heading out. After watching the sunset, we’ll return for festive refreshments and a hot drink at Middle Spernal Farm. The perfect way to unwind from the holiday hustle.
January 2026
Bird Ringing with the Redditch Ringing Group
Ever wondered how birds are tracked and studied in the wild? Join us for a fascinating morning with the Redditch Ringing Group and get a behind-the-scenes look at bird conservation in action! Get up close and observe how these skilled bird ringers carefully catch, identify, measure, and ring birds right here in the Heart of England Forest. You’ll learn about why bird ringing is crucial for conservation and gain insights into the lives of some of the Forest’s feathered residents.
Bird Ringing with the Redditch Ringing Group
Ever wondered how birds are tracked and studied in the wild? Join us for a fascinating morning with the Redditch Ringing Group and get a behind-the-scenes look at bird conservation in action! Get up close and observe how these skilled bird ringers carefully catch, identify, measure, and ring birds right here in the Heart of England Forest. You’ll learn about why bird ringing is crucial for conservation and gain insights into the lives of some of the Forest’s feathered residents.
Winter in the Heart of England Forest Arboretum
Experience the quiet beauty of winter on a 2.5-hour guided walk with Forest Rangers Sam and Lauren through the Dorsington Arboretum and surrounding woodlands. Discover striking tree silhouettes, evergreen colour, and subtle signs of wildlife as the forest settles into its colder season. Along the way, Sam and Lauren will share insights into native and international tree species, highlight winter’s unique features, and introduce you to the resilient wildlife that continues to thrive during this time of year.
February 2026
Your Forest and its Founder
Join us on a winter walking tour of the woodland around the former home of our founder, Felix Dennis, led by Public Engagement team member and former assistant to Felix, Toby. On this gentle walk and talk you'll learn about Felix’s background, what brought him to Dorsington, and when his love affair with trees started. This 2.5mile walk includes the first woodland planted by Felix, The Arboretum he created, and Dorsington Wood where he is buried.
March 2026
Conservation success story: Brown Hairstreak Butterfly
Discover how the Heart of England Forest has become a vital refuge for the rare Brown Hairstreak butterfly in this informative online talk. Claire will explore the species’ unique life cycle, why the Forest is a national stronghold, and how careful hedgerow management and targeted conservation efforts are helping its population grow. Learn how we survey for this elusive butterfly, the challenges it faces, and our future plans to support its recovery across the landscape. Perfect for nature lovers, conservation enthusiasts, and anyone curious about protecting threatened wildlife
April 2026
Bluebell Trail Fundraiser in the Heart of England Forest
Nothing says spring like an ocean of beautiful bluebells. Join us on a Bluebell Open Day when you will be able to wander around Alne Wood, an ancient woodland usually closed to the public, where the forest floor bursts to life with colour every spring, and bask in the sight and scent of the Heart of England Forest’s very own ‘Bluebell Wood' - and don't forget your camera, Alne Wood really is a sight to behold at this time of year.
Bluebell Trail Fundraiser in the Heart of England Forest
Nothing says spring like an ocean of beautiful bluebells. Join us on a Bluebell Open Day when you will be able to wander around Alne Wood, an ancient woodland usually closed to the public, where the forest floor bursts to life with colour every spring, and bask in the sight and scent of the Heart of England Forest’s very own ‘Bluebell Wood' - and don't forget your camera, Alne Wood really is a sight to behold at this time of year.
May 2026
Spring in the Heart of England Forest Arboretum
Celebrate the arrival of spring on a 2.5-hour guided walk with Forest Ranger's Sam and Lauren through the Dorsington Arboretum and surrounding woodlands where fresh greenery, budding blossoms, and the vibrant sights and sounds of wildlife bring the forest to life. Along the way, they will share fascinating insights about native and international tree species, pointing out seasonal highlights, and introduce you to the wildlife that thrives in the forest during this time of year.
Bats and Biodiversity: Discover Alne Wood at Dusk
Step into Alne Wood Park for an evening exploring the rich wildlife of this special woodland. Follow a gentle circular route through trees and grassland as you learn about the site’s biodiversity, habitat management, and the surveys guiding our conservation work. As dusk settles, we’ll pause in an open space to watch for bats emerging to hunt and use bat detectors to identify the species active here. A peaceful and insightful experience for nature lovers.
Life Beneath the Surface: Exploring Freshwater Invertebrates
Virtually dive into the world of freshwater invertebrates and learn how these tiny creatures keep our waterways healthy and full of life. Step into the fascinating underwater world of ponds, streams, and rivers to uncover the tiny creatures that call them home. These small but mighty animals play a huge part in keeping our freshwater habitats healthy and thriving. If you’re curious about the life teeming just below the surface, or want to learn how to spot and identify some of these amazing species, then this online workshop is for you.