Skip to content
Skip to content

Shorelife: Brent Watch at Grey Abbey Bay

Join us at Grey Abbey Bay to witness the spectacle of migratory Brent geese, with a Ranger on hand to answer questions and provide binoculars for a closer view.

  • Booking not needed
  • Free event

Watching Brent geese at Grey Abbey Bay in Northern Ireland is a captivating experience, especially during the winter months when thousands of these migratory birds arrive from their Arctic breeding grounds. The tranquil bay, part of Strangford Lough, offers a perfect haven for the geese, where they can feed on eelgrass and rest in the sheltered waters. Against the backdrop of the ancient Grey Abbey ruins, the sight of Brent geese in flight or gathered along the shoreline creates a serene and magical atmosphere. A knowledgeable Ranger will be on-site to answer any questions and even lend binoculars, enhancing the experience for birdwatchers and nature lovers alike.

Ranger will be onsite from 11am to 1pm.

This event is free. Park in carpark at Grey Abbey.

Times

The basics

Suitability

Suitable for all ages

Meeting point

Grey Abbey Village Car Park

What to bring and wear

Weather appropriate clothes

Accessibility

This is an accessible experience.

Upcoming events

Shorelife Celebration 2025 

Come celebrate the nature and wildlife inhabiting the local shoreline of Strangford Lough. With free entry to explore and a jam-packed programme of talks, workshops and tours, as well as FREE family activities, it will be a great day out.

Event summary

on
4 Oct 2025
at
10:00 to 17:00

Shorelife Celebration: Cyanotype Printing Workshop with Polly Garnett 

Discover the early photographic process of cyanotype, a fascinating blend of art and science. Artist Polly Garnett will introduce the history of this technique, highlighting how seaweed, algae, and ferns.

Event summary

on
4 Oct 2025
at
10:30 to 12:00
+ 1 other date or time

Shorelife Celebration: Talk by Ruby Free 

Join award-winning nature advocate, writer, and conservation biologist Ruby Free for an inspiring talk about her life, work, and passion for the natural world.

Event summary

on
4 Oct 2025
at
11:30 to 12:30

Shorelife Celebration: Polaroid Nature Photography Workshop 

Part of Shorelife Celebration Join artist Polly Garnett for a guided walk through Mount Stewart, exploring how photography can capture personal experiences of nature while also sparking wider conversations about climate awareness and our...

Event summary

on
4 Oct 2025
at
12:30 to 14:00