Seven new things to try this winter

Go on a bird watching tour

The start of a new year is a great time to learn something new, try something different or take on a new challenge.

Along the way you might pick-up a new skill or make new friends. You'll also be helping us look after special places for generations to come. Here are six ways to get out and enjoy a National Trust property near you this winter...

Try your hand at hedge laying this winter

Try your hand at hedge laying  

Master the traditional skill of hedge laying. Under the guidance of our ranger team at Strangford Lough you will learn how to extend the life of a hedge by making it more dense and also stock proof. Saturday 20 Jan. Booking essential.

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Snowdrops line the paths during February at The Argory

Join us on a snowdrop stroll 

Snowdrops mark the first signs of spring and their pretty white heads emerging from the frosty ground are a welcome sight indeed. Our gardens become carpeted with snowdrops from the end of January and you can enjoy a self-guided snow drop tour at Rowallane Garden, The Argory and Springhill. Dates in February. Booking not required.

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Learn the art of griddle baking

Learn the art of griddle baking  

Mmmm, who can resist the smell of freshly baked bread? At this time of year, there's nothing more homely than warm bread served straight from the over. Join the cook at Rowallane Garden for griddle baking taster sessions where we will showcase the traditional art of griddle bread making. Saturday 27 January. Booking not required.

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Build your own bird nest box

Build your own bird nest box 

Join us as we celebrate National Nest Box Week at Crom in Fermanagh. Come along and learn how to build and decorate your own bird nesting box, just in time for the upcoming nesting season. A small charge of £5 applies to cover the materials for your nest box. Saturday 10 February. No booking required.

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Murlough sand dunes

Take a walk with Murlough’s first ranger  

Jo Whatmough, the first ever warden at Murlough is helping us celebrate 50 years of Murlough being in the National Trust’s care with a series of ‘walk an talks’ in which she shares her incredible knowledge of this important nature reserve. On her next walk, Jo will reveal the fascinating history of Murlough. Saturday 3 February. Booking essential.

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Join us in a fight against invasive species

Join us in a fight against invasive species 

We need volunteers to help us clear the dunes of some of the invasive plant species that have taken root at Murlough Nature Reserve. Removing the invasive species is a regular part of our rangers’ work, but this time we’d like your help, so roll up your sleeves and join us to help protect this special place. Sunday 28 January. Booking essential.

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Go on a bird watching tour

Go on a bird watching tour 

The magical gardens and estate at Mount Stewart are home to a rich variety of wildlife, including an impressive range of birds. Learn more about our feathered residents, including how to identify their individual calls with our resident bird-enthusiast Gemma Sandford on a monthly bird watching tour around the gardens and wider Demesne. Wednesday 7 February. Booking not required.

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