Norfolk Broads, Norfolk
Enter Amberley Castle through the original portcullis
There are only 500 pairs of golden eagles left in the UK, and these are all to be found in Scotland, which is also home to the even rarer, and bigger, white-tailed eagle, with 40 pairs nesting around the west coast. You’ll have the chance to see both these magnificent birds on the breathtaking island of Eilean Shona. Its magical scenery is said to have been the inspiration for JM Barrie’s Neverland.
✱
The Broads is a birdwatcher’s paradise – the two standout rarities are marsh harriers and bitterns. The Broads also has a number of wonderful nature reserves that can be visited, such as the ‘floating’ Broads Wildlife Centre on Ranworth Broad.
✱ WHERE TO STAY Exploring the Broads by boat means you can easily visit all the waterside wildlife centres, as well as getting up close with the bird life. A three-night hire of a Jazz-class motor cruiser costs around £399 and sleeps two; waterwaysholidays. com.
EILEAN SHONA, INNER HEBRIDES, SCOTLAND
The newly refurbished Shepherd’s Cottage is a stylish, one-bed bolthole on the northern shore. One week’s rental costs £900; eileanshona.com.