Late night bird watching on the East Dorset coast

Now we’re all being green and holidaying in the UK this summer, the hunt is on for something the whole family can enjoy doing in the evening. If karaoke night at the local disco doesn’t float your boat, why not try a spot of late night bird-watching?

The RSPB’s nature reserve at Arne, on the East Dorset coast, offers some spectacular twitching opportunities, particularly through June and July, when the mysterious Nightjar comes to stay.

This eerie-sounding bird flies from the Sahara desert to spend its summers in Dorset, lazing around in the cool shade of the reserve at Arne. But come dusk, the Nightjar springs in to action and the night comes alive with the eerie sounds of its distinctive ‘churring’ call and its impressive aerial mating displays.

The RSPB’s just-slightly-scary guided walks start at 8pm and take visitors through the reserve by lamplight, checking in on a few of the reserve’s other residents, such as the Dartford Warbler, before settling in for an exhilarating evening encounter with the Nightjar.

It’s the perfect way to while away a Summer holiday evening; fun, educational and at £3 for non-members, £1 for members and kids for free, it’s cheaper than a night at the disco.

Where to stay

The Studio is a sprawling property, situated on the edge of the Arne reserve. Incorporating a former pottery studio, the house has been renovated and retains much of its period charm.

With room for ten adults and cots and z-beds for additional little people, all rooms are double aspect, flooded with natural light and sumptuously comfortable. Outside, deer and other wildlife often visit the idyllic lawns.

With plenty of room for children and adults to lose themselves, it’s the perfect spot for a family holiday with friends and only a stone’s throw from the RSPB reserve.

The Studio costs from £995-£1165 for a week in June and July. For more information and booking, go to Dorsetcoastalcottages.com.