Somerset Levels in Winter

The Somerset Levels have had a colourful history: ‘the land of the summer people’ was once home to a Bronze Age population and it was here, in the house of a swineherd, that King Alfred sought refuge from marauding Vikings.

Wildlife is now returning to England’s largest wetland in dramatic numbers – from the millions-strong murmuration of roosting starlings, to the growing flock of cranes recently reintroduced after a 400-year absence. As well as observing the region’s wildlife, our tour will investigate key historical sites such as Glastonbury Abbey, England’s oldest abbey, and Glastonbury Tor, reputed to be the birthplace of King Arthur.

The Avalon Marshes host one of the country’s most exciting wildlife projects: over 3000 hectares of wetland habitats has been created out of former peat workings, giving refuge to bitterns, barn owls and marsh harriers.

Greylake, once a series of carrot fields, has been transformed into a wetland reserve teeming with wildlife, whilst West Sedgemoor is home to up to 100,000 ducks and waders during the winter.

Our base will be the charming four-star Swan Hotel, ideally located in the historical city of Wells, a short distance from its beautiful Cathedral.

Please note that itinerary alterations during the tour are likely due to changeable local weather conditions. Some details may be changed nearer the time, and we cannot guarantee the availability of all wildlife mentioned.

This tour will be led by Peter Exley, BSc, an ecologist and ornithologist who has held posts with BirdLife International and the Albatross Task Force in South Africa. Now working for the RSPB, Peter has led and managed many ACE tours in the United Kingdom, Netherlands, Algarve, New England, Madeira, the Faeroes and Shetland.

Peter is delighted to be returning to Somerset for this long-standing ACE tour: "The Somerset Levels are one of our greatest historic and cultural landscapes, yet largely ignored by visitors. But they are rapidly and rightly becoming known as one of our country's best wildlife destinations. And for me, it is the conflicted fusion of nature and people through history that makes this place truly unique and special, that draws me back again and again."