Moths & Muffins – Racy Ghyll

Nestled in the Lakeland valley of Matterdale, James Rebanks, his family and their Racy Ghyll Farm have gained admiration and respect for their Herdwick Sheep, but most recently James’ strong advocation of nature-friendly farming, and his acclaimed books The Shepherd’s Life: A Tale of the Lake District and his recently published English Pastoral | An Inheritance.

Traditional farming methods adopted at Racy Ghyll, such as wildflower meadow restoration and altered grazing regimes, benefit a diversity of moth species. The farm and its surrounding landscape offer an interesting mosaic of habitats which support a variety of beautiful moth species including Garden Tiger, Beautiful Golden Y, Poplar Hawkmoth and Green Carpet.

The morning will start with a fascinating insight into moths by Wild Intrigue, accompanied by hot drinks and delicious muffins made locally, before we had out to collect the moth traps.

A kaleidoscope of colour awaits! Whilst your Wild Intrigue guides go through identifying and recording the species, you will have the opportunity to take photographs of these under-appreciated night-pollinators.

Moth trapping is vital for conservation. Many moths are are our nocturnal pollinators and have an important role in ecosystems, so they are indicators of changes in the climate and habitats. Once captured and recorded all the moths are safely released back to the wild. 

The purchase of each ticket contributes to the support of nature-friendly farming at Racy Ghyll Farm, and in turn the wildlife this benefits in this corner of the Lake District National Park.

Please note that James and Helen Rebanks are understandably very busy people, so they may not be available during this event. If we are very lucky, Helen may be able to prepare some home-baked goodies.

Why not take a look at our other Mini Expeds taking place at Racy Ghyll Farm? Many share the same date, so you could make a weekend of it!

Racy Ghyll Farm is located only a short drive from Keswick or Penrith, in the beautiful Matterdale Valley in the Lake District north of Ullswater. The exact address and tailored directions will be provided upon booking.