February half term at Souter Lighthouse

A family head towards the red and white striped tower of Souter Lighthouse on a winter's day

It's all about nature and outdoor fun at Souter over half-term.

Get a taste for geocaching

Little adventurers can join a digital treasure hunt on an introduction to geocaching, Sunday 16 February. Learn the basics with our volunteer geocaching guru, then test your skills to find hidden caches. Click here for full details and how to sign up.

Time flies when you're having fun

In celebration of the British Trust for Ornithology's (BTO) National Nest Box Week, you can brush up on your joinery skills and build a bird box on Monday 17, Tuesday 18 or Thursday 20 February. Find out about some of the birds that might visit your garden and choose to make it their home. You never know, there could be a family of chicks safely nestled your hand crafted bird box by spring.

If you're feeling creative, we'll be making bird-themed crafts in the Education Room upstairs from the shop on Wednesday and Friday 21 February. 

Visit our What's on page for more info.

A great tit chick, almost ready to leave its cosy nest box
A great tit chick sits in a nest box, almost ready to fledge
A great tit chick, almost ready to leave its cosy nest box

Sports days

Head to the Foghorn Field on Monday to Thursday between 11am and 3pm to have a go at free games and mini sports activities. Test your skills at badminton or have a kickaround. Our team will be on hand if you want to pick up some advice, or challenge them to a game!

On Tuesday 18 February, local group Strolls with Poles host an Introduction to Nordic walking. Adults and children can have a go at the world's fastest growing fitness activity and all-round workout. Places are limited, so booking is advisable. Find out more here.

Free balance bike hire

Together with British Cycling and HSBC UK we're making it easier for your little ones to start cycling. Borrow a balance bike for free and explore traffic free trails around Whitburn Coastal Park and The Leas – a guaranteed recipe for tired children. You'll find the bike stand outside the shop, simply ask a member of the team for assistance. Suitable for age 2-8. Subject to weather conditions - balance bikes aren't much fun if it's too wet, windy or snowing!

NB, during busy periods hire time may be limited - we want as many young bikers as possible to be able to have a go.

A gentle introduction to cycling
A young child rides a bike across grass on a sunny day
A gentle introduction to cycling

Or you could go your own way

If you fancy a self-led adventure, you can pick up a family activity pack from the admissions desk. It contains everything you need to get out and about for a bit of bird watching around the lighthouse.

Alternatively, try the Souter Saunter downloadable walking trail. The easy 2 mile route takes in bird viewing screens in the nature reserve and great places to spot seabirds along the cliff top stretch.