31 October to 5 November 2021

Bird Watching magazine editor Matthew Merritt and assistant editor Mike Weedon will be joined by Scottish birding aficionado and UKBS editor Gordon Hamlett, to lead a week of wildlife watching, based at the lovely Grant Arms Hotel in Grantown-on-Spey.

Deposits aren’t required – card details will secure bookings – and should postponement because of lockdowns become necessary, we will reschedule for the earliest possible opportunity.

The hotel boasts high quality en suite rooms and traditional Scottish fare prepared with local ingredients, and while it takes care of bed, breakfast and dinner, we’ll provide optional guided walks, expert tips, bird quizzes, films and evening talks.

From our Highland location, we’ll be within easy reach of sites such as

Glenmore Forest Park, for Crested Tits and Crossbills; the Cairngorms, for Ptarmigan and possible Snow Bunting; and the Findhorn Valley, for eagles and other raptors. There’ll also be the chance to visit Moray Firth sites such as Burghead and Spey Bay for wildfowl (including sea ducks), divers, grebes and waders.

We’ll look for Red and Black Grouse and Capercaillie in the forests and moors around Grantown, and will make trips to the west coast and/or Aberdeenshire, depending on the weather and what birds are around.

As well as the great birdlife, there’ll be the chance to see dolphins, Red Squirrels, Red Deer, Otter, Mountain Hare, and maybe even Pine Marten.

The Grant Arms Hotel is home to the Birdwatching and Wildlife Club and its expert staff will be on hand to guide you to the best areas, offer local knowledge and seasonal tips if you prefer to organise your own time. It’s perfect for birdwatchers of all levels and a great way to meet like-minded people, share tips and make the most of this incredible time of year and wonderful place.