Natural England

Heath Week at Thursley National Nature Reserve

Heath Week runs from Saturday 24 May to Sunday 1 June 2008 and coincides with many schools’ summer half term. Heath Week has been organised to encourage everyone to get out and enjoy Surrey’s rare and often over-looked landscape. Events include guided walks exploring some of the county’s wildest areas. The events are being organised by the Surrey Heathland Project and a wide range of partners, including Natural England.

The Surrey Heathland Project involves the restoration and management of heathland in Surrey and part of Berkshire, with support and funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund and partners including the RSPB, Natural England and Surrey County Council.

Natural England are involved in Heath Week by co-hosting the following 3 events at Thursley NNR:

Monday 26 May:
Day's End at Thursley Common, guided walk

Spend an evening exploring this National Nature Reserve looking at wildlife on the heath and in the bogs, and with luck hear the eerie call of nightjars at dusk. 3 mile walk led by Surrey Heathland Project. Warm clothing, a torch and binoculars are recommended.
Further information: 020 8541 9149. 7 – 10pm. Meet at The Moat car park, Thursley Road, Elstead GU8 6LW Grid ref: SU 899 416.

Wednesday 28 May:
Snakes & Lizards – at Home on the Heath

An opportunity to handle lizards, snakes and other fascinating creatures at an indoor display, followed by a walk onto the heathland at Thursley Common National Nature Reserve. Look at where these reptiles live and find out what they need to survive. Led by the Herpetological Conservation Trust.
Further information: 020 8541 9149. 2pm – 3.30pm. Meet at Thursley Cricket Pavilion, Dye House Road, Thursley, GU8 6QA.

Sunday 1 June:
Bog Safari at Thursley Common National Nature Reserve

Join James Giles, Natural England’s Reserve Manager for Thursley on a walk looking at the fascinating plants and animals flourishing in the bog areas. Easy going terrain (sand tracks and board walks) but please wear sensible footwear and bring sunhat / cream if necessary. Binoculars recommended, dogs on leads please, no booking necessary.
Further information: 01428 685675 / email james.giles@naturalengland.org.uk. 10.30am – 12.30. Meet at The Moat car park, Thursley Road, Elstead GU8 6LW.

For further information on the Surrey Heathland Project and the other events taking place during Heath week - please click here.