Let's Celebrate the Nature on our Doorstep!

For over 16 years we have operated Festivals of Wildlife from the polar regions to rainforests and savannahs gathering in a dedicated ovation of nature. Our self-prescribed criteria for a festival is an exclusive and unique environment that is home to plenty of iconic wildlife, combined with a rich variety of activities led by some of the world’s leading naturalists and wildlife photographers.

The events of the last two years have provided a stark reminder of our fragile place in the world but have also encouraged a greater appreciation of wild places and nature close to home. So where better to pitch the next festival than on our own doorstep? The rugged beauty of the Scottish Highlands provides the ultimate setting for our first Festival of British Wildlife. Nestled within the spectacular Highlands lies Aigas Field Centre, arguably one of the finest institutions of its kind in the UK that is renowned for its ground-breaking innovation, conservation, rewilding and education initiatives.

We have exclusive use of the 240 hectare Aigas Estate and well-established specialist hide network over the week, to observe and photograph some of the most iconic species in the British Isles including pine marten, badger, red deer and beavers. A lattice of well-maintained nature trails weave through the Aigas Estate, guiding you around the loch and adjacent woodlands and moorland which are home to resident red squirrels, field voles, red and roe deer, slow worms and an array of highland bird species.

Spring welcomes wildflowers and warmth as well as migrants such as ospreys, wheatears, cuckoos and whinchats which are establishing their breeding territories. Our team, along with Aigas’s expert resident naturalists will guide you along the coast, bustling with waders and wildfowl and through woods and moorland, which echo with bird song, providing expert knowledge on the landscape, wildlife and history of Aigas. Education and conservation are integral features of the field centre and as a result you will have the very rare opportunity to see the critically endangered Scottish wild cat, which are part of a captive breeding programme.

The long spring days will allow plenty of time to explore the spectacular glens and straths and the evocative ancient Caledonian pine forest where European crested tit and Scottish crossbill thrive, while golden eagles may be encountered in the more rugged areas. Pine marten and badgers are regularly seen and photographed from the purpose-built Campbell Hide in the evening. Along the banks of Aigas Loch sits the Kingdom Hide, looking across the waters, where we see resident beavers or visiting otters. A variety of raised groundlevel hides in different habitats offer opportunities to see red squirrels, deer and raptors. Whether a beginner or a more proficient photographer you will receive expert guidance from experienced wildlife photographer Nick Garbutt and macro specialist and wildlife photographer Alex Hyde.

Throughout the festival there is a comprehensive programme of activities you can choose from. Our experts will deliver a unique series of talks and master classes ranging in topics from photography, UK wildlife and conservation projects. Each evening we gather for a delicious meal of the finest local produce and reflect on the day’s highlights, followed by a presentation by one of the festival experts. One thing is certain – you will not be short of things to keep you entertained.

Images by Nick Garbutt & John Paul

Find out more about our Festival of British Wildlife, or to book your space contact our team!