Event Date: Sat 3 February 2024
Event Time: 09:00
This walk is in the past.
Join me for a bracing winter wander around the stunning Avalon Marshes on the Somerset Levels! This circular walk initially heads south towards the village of Ashcott, then strikes west across farmland before turning northwards towards the village of Shapwick and on towards Shapwick Heath, where we'll stop at the excellent cafe at the Avalon Marshes centre for a well-earned hot drink and snack. Finally, we'll strike westwards across Shapwick Heath National Nature Reserve and its amazing wetlands, arriving back at the car park in time for some birdwatching at Ham Wall RSPB reserve opposite should anyone fancy it.
As Ham Wall and Shapwick Heath are renowned for the stunning Starling murmuration displays during the winter months, anyone who wants to is welcome to stay and enjoy this stunning spectacle. I can't guarantee it, naturally, but murmurations occur nightly at either site, so please do bring any binoculars you may have as there is so much to see!
For those wanting to just attend the starling murmuration, it usually starts to build around sunset, which on 3rd February is at 17:04, although I would suggest arriving no later than 16:00, as the car parks at both Ham Wall and Shapwick Heath can get absolutely rammed! We'll aim to be back at the car park for 16:30 at the latest.
Bring packed lunch. Cafe to finish.
Group:
Joint
Walk Leader:
Andy S.
Walk Grade:
2 Boot
Walk Length: 11 miles
(6 hours (ish, including breaks but not travel))
Date: Sat 03 Feb 2024
Meet:
09:00 at
The Watertower (Clifton)
If sharing lifts passengers are expected to contribute towards petrol costs. Please bring coins or be prepared to make a bank transfer. As a guide, 30p/mile shared by everyone in the car.
Alternative meeting point: 10:00 at
Shapwick Heath car park
Please contact the walk leader if you will be meeting them there.
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