Dusk Beaver Safari

EXPERIENCE THE TRANQUILITY OF A BEAVER WETLAND

As the sun sets, an intriguing creature missing from the Northumbrian landscape for 400 years, emerges into its restored watery home.

Join Wild Intrigue on a Dusk Beaver Safari at the National Trust Wallington beaver enclosure, to observe the first beavers to have been restored in Northumberland.

The Wallington Beavers live in an ever-changing wetland crafted by their own engineering. As aquatic mammals, beavers need a safe, watery environment in which to live and raise their young, which the Wallington Beavers have developed through the ongoing creation of dams. 

The phrase “Busy as a Beaver” comes to life when watching these industrious animals. Responding to the behaviour of water each night, Beavers adapt dams, dig channels, and undertake essential maintenance.

Wetland engineering is hungry work, and any respectable builder enjoys plenty of breaks to socialise. So amongst the hard work, beavers spend a good amount of time feeding and spending time with their family members.

The banks of the burn are carpeted in colourful wildflowers and grasses, along with regenerated trees such as willow, which the Beavers forage on throughout the night.

With strong social bonds, family members make time to groom, play and communicate with one another. Observing these social mammals, in the wetlands they have carefully crafted, is one of the most enriching wildlife encounters you can enjoy. We are delighted that this is now possible in Northumberland thanks to the National Trust, with support from the Reece Foundation and the Beaver Trust.

From a raised position in the landscape, you will enjoy views of the core beaver wetland amongst a bank of wildflowers. The wetland is home to an array of other species, including Roe Deer, Grey Heron, Badgers and Otter – which may also make a special appearance.

Dusk Beaver Safaris will follow the Beaver Trust’s ethical beaver watching protocol, in addition to Wild Intrigue’s 10 years of experience watching and sharing this spectacular species. 

Although every effort has been made to share a successful encounter with the Beavers, please understand that these are wild animals and views therefore cannot be guaranteed.

Please note that this experience is strictly adults (18+) only, and once entered into the beaver enclosure, attendees will be required to speak quietly.

The reintroduction of Beavers at Wallington forms a vital part of the National Trust’s ambition for Wilder Wallington, to restore native species and natural ecosystem functions across the vast 5321 ha estate.

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PLEASE NOTE

• The Beaver Enclosure is not located in the main NT Wallington visitor hub, as detailed on the map. It is approximately a 10 minute drive away. The exact meeting point will be shared upon booking.

• Pre-booking is essential. Suitable for adults 18+ only.

• This experience takes place on a wilder part of the NT Wallington estate, with exclusive, pre-arranged access into the beaver enclosure. There are no toilet facilities available during this experience.

• Terrain in the beaver enclosure is uneven and will be muddy and soggy underfoot! There are no formal footpaths. You will therefore be required to wear wellies.

• Due to the location of the beaver enclosure being away from the main visitor hub of NT Wallington, attendees will need to arrive by car (or bike). Public transport is not available in this part of the estate.