Wild Intrigue

Osprey Watching Cruise
2025-07-12 17:30 - 19:30, 2025-07-16 17:30 - 19:30, 2025-07-19 17:30 - 19:30, 2025-07-23 17:30 - 19:30, 2025-07-26 17:30 - 19:30, 2025-07-30 17:30 - 19:30, 2025-08-02 17:30 - 19:30, 2025-08-06 17:30 - 19:30 (Europe/London) | Kielder Waterside, Kielder Forest Park, Leaplish, Hexham, NE48 1BT, United Kingdom
Discover one of Kielder’s most enigmatic summer visitors, on an exclusive Osprey Watching Cruise. Guided by Wild Intrigue, you will head out onto Kielder Water in search of Ospreys, which return from Africa to nest in this beautiful part of Northumberland each year.

You will have the opportunity to enjoy a short talk, diving into the fascinating history, ecology and local conservation of the Osprey, as we set sail on Kielder Waterside’s comfortable ferry, the “Osprey”.

2025 will be our fourth season running Osprey Watching Cruises – in previous years we have enjoyed spectacular encounters with the breeding pairs around Kielder Water. So come aboard and embark upon this specially-tailored wildlife experience, to have the best chance of watching this magnificent bird of prey in the beautiful backdrop of Kielder Forest & Water.

Osprey Watching Cruises last approximately two hours, and take place on Kielder Water aboard Kielder Waterside’s comfortable ferry, the “Osprey”. A toilet is available for use on board, and refreshments are available to purchase with cash. Binoculars will be provided by Wild Intrigue for the duration of the cruise.

Suitable for all ages, recommended for ages 13+ (under 18’s must be accompanied by an adult ticket holder)

On the day, you will be welcomed by your Wild Intrigue guides by the Kielder Waterside jetty.

BOOK NOW

Please note: Tickets for this experience will be booked through the Kielder Waterside booking system. If you wish to cancel or amend your booking you will need to refer to Kielder Waterside’s Terms and contact them directly to do this. If you have any questions about the Osprey Watching Cruise experience, you are welcome to contact Wild Intrigue at info@wildintrigue.co.uk

Introduction to Wildlife Photography
2025-07-17 10:30 - 12:00 | National Trust Wallington, B6342, near Morpeth, NE61 4AR
Perfect your skills in wildlife photography

Attention nature lovers and aspiring wildlife photographers! Grow your skills and capture the beauty of nature in Northumberland on our summer Introduction to Wildlife Photography workshop at National Trust Wallington.

On this hands-on workshop, guided by award-winning wildlife photographer Cain Scrimgeour (Wild Intrigue Co-Director), you will learn how to compose captivating images by combining skills in ethical fieldcraft, engaging narrative, composition and exposure, as well as plenty of opportunities to become accustomed to your camera and its settings.

Whether you’re a beginner or want to sharpen your existing skills, you’ll leave with the confidence and experience to capture beautiful photographs.

Highlights of this workshop include:

– Learn from a local, expert wildlife photographer

– Discover techniques to take stunning wildlife and landscape photographs

– Practice in the beautiful Wallington estate

– Small group size for personalised guidance

– Plus complimentary same-day access to the NT Wallington estate

This Wild Intrigue workshop is in partnership with National Trust Wallington, we are delighted to have special access into the estate to host this experience.

Suitable for ages 16 and above, under 18s must be accompanied by an adult ticket holder. Although dogs are allowed at NT Wallington, they are not permitted on this workshop.

Beaver Enclosure Safari
2025-07-17 10:30 - 12:30 | National Trust Wallington, B6342, near Morpeth, NE61 4AR
EXPLORE NORTHUMBERLAND’S BEAVER ENCLOSURE

In partnership with National Trust Wallington, we are thrilled to host Beaver Enclosure Safaris, showcasing the remarkable architectural and engineering achievements of these dynamic mammals, which were introduced to the estate in July 2023.

Wild Intrigue guides will share their knowledge and firsthand experience as beaver ecologists whilst you explore this dynamic wetland habitat. This unique opportunity will immerse you in the fascinating ecology and intrigue of beavers in the beautiful Northumberland countryside.

You’ll witness and learn about a range of captivating beaver activities, such as sculpture-like gnawed tree stumps, masterfully dug channels and impressive dams. These complex, ever-changing beaver features make this wetland one of the most exciting habitats to explore. With more water held back in the landscape, thriving freshwater life – from wetland birds and fish, to unexpected surprises like insects feeding on sugar-rich sap – offers different encounters on every safari.

While the nocturnal beavers themselves are highly unlikely to be seen on Beaver Enclosure Safaris, the magic lies in seeing and understanding their incredible ecosystem engineering. Our Dusk Beaver Safaris will return in early Summer 2025 to watch the beavers and experience the tranquility of their wetland habitat – find out more here.

Our Beaver Enclosure Safaris at NT Wallington are among the most exciting wildlife experiences in the Wild Intrigue collection, as you witness the profound impact this keystone species has on the surrounding plants, animals, and even the behaviour of water itself.

Beavers continuously upgrade their wetland habitats, quickly adapting to changes in water flow, food availability, and family dynamics. This means each Beaver Enclosure Safari will be truly unique, with flexible itineraries to accommodate the busy beavers and abundant other wildlife.

Wild Intrigue had previously undertaken community engagement for a number of beaver restoration projects in northern England and Scotland. We are thrilled to now to share our expertise and insights from Britain and Europe in our home county of Northumberland, in partnership with National Trust Wallington.

In the summer of 2024, Wild Intrigue hosted 50 immersive beaver experiences at the Wallington Beaver Enclosure. We’re excited to continue sharing the evolving landscape and seasonal changes of the Wallington beaver wetland.

PLEASE NOTE

– The beaver enclosure features rugged, uneven terrain, including some hilly areas that guests must navigate. The walking safari moves at a leisurely pace, allowing guests to fully experience the diverse wetland environment. If you have any questions about accessibility within the enclosure, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

– 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 north. The exact meeting point with directions will be shared upon booking.

– Pre-booking is essential. Beaver Enclosure Safaris are only suitable for ages 16+.

– Ticket holders can enjoy complimentary same-day access to the National Trust Wallington estate!

For more information please visit the main Mini-Exped page.

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 5321ha estate.

Night Out with Nightjars
2025-07-17 20:30 - 23:00, 2025-07-25 20:15 - 22:45, 2025-08-01 20:15 - 23:00
An Evening of Awe in the Enchanted Forest

As the sun dips below the horizon and twilight descends upon the forests of the Tyne Valley, the nocturnal world awakens. Among the creatures that stir, one enigmatic bird has captivated human imagination for millennia—the elusive Nightjar.

These cryptically camouflaged birds undertake a remarkable journey, migrating thousands of miles from Africa to our heathlands, forests, woodland edges, and moorlands during the summer months. They return to Northumberland in May, only to migrate back to Africa with the onset of September.

Adorned with enormous, otherworldly eyes, mysterious whiskers known as rictal bristles, and wide mouths, Nightjars are perfectly adapted for their nocturnal lifestyle. Shrouded in mystery and superstition, these birds have woven themselves into the very fabric of folklore. From the ancient myth of sucking goat’s milk—earning them the moniker ‘Goat Sucker’—to being revered as Odin’s night Ravens, Nightjars have both created fear and inspiration through the ages.

One of the most enchanting experiences of the Nightjar encounter is their unique song—known as churring. As darkness envelops the forest, the male Nightjar’s continuous, mechanical churring sound fills the air, an eerie and mesmerizing serenade that can last for minutes on end. This rhythmic, otherworldly sound resonates through the stillness of the night, creating an atmosphere of enchantment and mystery. It’s a rare auditory spectacle that immerses you in nature, leaving you spellbound by the forest’s hidden symphony.

Join us for an enchanting evening where we delve into the secrets of the Nightjar and explore the other fascinating nocturnal wildlife that calls the Tyne Valley home. Let the magic of the forest night transport you to a place where nature’s wonders reveal them themselves under the cloak of darkness.

Night Out with Nightjars experiences will take place within 10 miles of Corbridge, exact meeting location will be provided upon booking.

Dusk Beaver Safari
2025-07-18 19:15 - 21:45, 2025-07-19 19:15 - 21:45, 2025-08-02 18:30 - 21:00, 2025-08-07 18:30 - 21:00 | National Trust Wallington, B6342, near Morpeth, NE61 4AR
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 behaviour of Beavers differs with each safari, making this one of our most exciting wildlife experiences. Some evenings the Beavers may be responding to the ‘behaviour’ of water by adapting dams, digging channels, and undertaking essential maintenance – and on other nights they might be foraging and socialising.

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, Badger 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 in 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.

Family Bats & Pizza Night
2025-07-22 19:15 - 21:45, 2025-07-23 19:15 - 21:45, 2025-07-30 19:00 - 21:30, 2025-07-31 19:00 - 21:30 | Wild Northumbrian, Thorneyburn Old Rectory, Hexham, Northumberland, NE48 1NA, United Kingdom
Rewild your week on a Wild Intrigue Bats & Pizza Night, hosted at the tranquil, rural glamping site Wild Northumbrian. This beautiful spot is set in the heart of Northumberland National Park on the edge of Kielder Forest, beneath the enchanting celestial blanket of the Northumberland International Dark Sky Park.

Upon arriving at the Swallow Hut you will be greeted by your Wild Intrigue guides, who will escort you to your al fresco dining table for the night. Once you’ve grabbed your first bottomless hot or cold drink of the night, the fun begins as Wild Intrigue guide you into making your own stone-baked pizza, with delicious dough. Which toppings will you choose?

Plates emptied, you will embark on a short, guided exploration of crepuscular wildlife emerging in the meadow as the sun begins to set. Perhaps you’ll hear Tawny Owls calling, Roe Deer barking, or the Blackbird’s bedtime melody.

A cosy campfire will be waiting back at the Swallow Hut ready to toast marshmallows to enjoy with a hot chocolate. As the sun dips below the horizon, you will set off on a Bat Safari to track down bats emerging from their roosts on the hunt for breakfast. With bat detectors in hand you will track down these elusive creatures of the night, picking up their echolocation on route. Through intriguing insights, fascinating facts and some (unashamedly) enthusiastic impressions from your Wild Intrigue guides, you’ll discover just how intriguing these misunderstood creatures of the night are.

Adult groups (or ages 14+ at parent’s discretion) should book onto Bats & Pizza Nights to enjoy a chilled, wild night out.

Families with children should book onto Family Bats & Pizza Nights, for a night tailored to suit you and your little wild ones!

Please note that we can only welcome adult-only groups onto our “Bats & Pizza Nights” experiences and not “Family Nights”. Our Family Nights receive a lot of demand due to little ones hoping to return, so we want to prevent disappointment.

There are heaps of wild encounters to enjoy in northern England, explore our full collection here.

Moths & Muffins
2025-07-23 09:30 - 11:00, 2025-07-30 09:30 - 11:00 | Wild Northumbrian, Thorneyburn Old Rectory, Hexham, Northumberland, NE48 1NA, United Kingdom
Discover the enchantment of the night on a Moths & Muffins Morning, hosted at Wild Northumbrian, Tarset.

This rural site is managed with wildlife at its heart, and supports a rich mosaic of habitats that attract magical moth species such as the Burnished Brass, Elephant Hawkmoth, Peach Blossom, and Garden Tiger.

Based from the Swallow Hut, Wild Intrigue will introduce you to the spectacular beauty and importance of these misunderstood creatures. Intriguing discussions and insights into live-caught moths will be enjoyed, over a tasty brekkie of locally sourced muffins and bottomless fresh coffee and orange juice.

A kaleidoscope of colour awaits! You will have the opportunity to go through the moth traps, set the night before, with Wild Intrigue as they identify the species captured. There’ll be plenty of opportunities to take incredible photographs of these much under-rated invertebrates, showing the impressive camouflage and vibrancy of different species.

Moth trapping is vital for conservation as moths play an important role as nocturnal pollinators, and are an indicator of changes in the climate and habitats. Once captured and recorded all moths will be safely released back to the wild.

Suitable for adults as well as families with children. Under 18s must be accompanied by a ticket holding adult.

Bats & Pizza Night
2025-07-24 19:15 - 21:45, 2025-07-29 19:15 - 21:45 | Wild Northumbrian, Thorneyburn Old Rectory, Hexham, Northumberland, NE48 1NA, United Kingdom
Rewild your week on a Wild Intrigue Bats & Pizza Night, hosted at the tranquil, rural glamping site Wild Northumbrian. This beautiful spot is set in the heart of Northumberland National Park on the edge of Kielder Forest, beneath the enchanting celestial blanket of the Northumberland International Dark Sky Park.

Upon arriving at the Swallow Hut you will be greeted by your Wild Intrigue guides, who will escort you to your al fresco dining table for the night. Once you’ve grabbed your first bottomless hot or cold drink of the night, the fun begins as Wild Intrigue guide you into making your own stone-baked pizza, with delicious dough. Which toppings will you choose?

Plates emptied, you will embark on a short, guided exploration of crepuscular wildlife emerging in the meadow as the sun begins to set. Perhaps you’ll hear Tawny Owls calling, Roe Deer barking, or the Blackbird’s bedtime melody.

A cosy campfire will be waiting back at the Swallow Hut ready to toast marshmallows to enjoy with a hot chocolate. As the sun dips below the horizon, you will set off on a Bat Safari to track down bats emerging from their roosts on the hunt for breakfast. With bat detectors in hand you will track down these elusive creatures of the night, picking up their echolocation on route. Through intriguing insights, fascinating facts and some (unashamedly) enthusiastic impressions from your Wild Intrigue guides, you’ll discover just how intriguing these misunderstood creatures of the night are.

Our Bats & Pizza Nights are for adults (or ages 14+ at parent’s discretion) to enjoy a chilled night in the Northumbrian wilds. If you have children, check out our Family Bats & Pizza Nights.

Dawn Beaver Safari
2025-08-02 04:15 - 06:45, 2025-08-09 04:30 - 07:00 | National Trust Wallington, B6342, near Morpeth, NE61 4AR
START YOUR DAY WITH THE WALLINGTON BEAVERS

Join Wild Intrigue on an exciting NEW experience for 2025 – Dawn Beaver Safaris – at the National Trust Wallington beaver enclosure.

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 since their introduction in July 2023 through the ongoing creation of dams, channels and dynamic activities.

The behaviour of Beavers differs with each safari, making these some of our most exciting wildlife experiences. As the sun rises on the horizon, Beavers spend time engineering close to their lodges to make sure their most important dams are in good condition, to socialise with the family in their ‘natal pool’ and to have a snack before they tuck up for a good day’s sleep.

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

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, Badger and Otter – which may also make a special appearance.

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 to have the ability to host the first Beaver experiences in Northumberland thanks to the work of the National Trust, the Reece Foundation and the Beaver Trust in restoring this lost species.

Dawn Beaver Safaris will follow the Beaver Trust’s ethical beaver watching protocol, in addition to Wild Intrigue’s 10+ years of experience in watching and sharing this spectacular species. These morning experiences follow from two brilliant seasons of Dusk (evening) Beaver Safaris at Wallington.

Although every effort has been made to share a successful encounter with the Beavers, please understand that these are wild animals and therefore views 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.

Walltown Wildlife Rangers
2025-08-06 10:30 - 11:30 | Walltown Country Park, Greenhead, Brampton, Northumberland, CA8 7HF, United Kingdom
Nature discovery for the whole family!

Kids and their grown ups, come and discover the intriguing wild things that roam, bloom and sing at Walltown Country Park this summer!

Walltown Wildlife Rangers will join their Wild Intrigue guide to discover expert tips to find and identify wild creatures and plants, and hear weird and wonderful insights into Northumbrian wildlife.

Learn how to eavesdrop on birds and understand their secret language, uncover a hidden world of creatures, search for the tracks and signs wildlife leaves behind, and much more!

A certificate will be awarded to young Wildlife Rangers at the end!

All ages welcome, particularly suited for ages 5 – 12. Under 18s must be accompanied by an adult ticket holder.

This Mini Exped is part of our Wild Wednesdays experience collection in partnership with Northumberland National Park, and has been designed to fit with the timings of the AD122 Hadrian’s Wall Bus Service!

Bats & Beers
2025-08-07 19:30 - 21:30 | The First & Last Brewery, Old Ambulance Station, Bellingham, Northumberland, NE48 2DA, United Kingdom
Join Wild Intrigue and First & Last Brewery Northumberland for a night like no other! Discover the award-winning beers inspired by Northumberland’s wild landscape, before searching for some of the nocturnal wildlife that calls it home.

First & Last Brewery Northumberland is an family run microbrewery based in Bellingham in the heart of Northumberland. Explore the art of brewing as the passionate team share their skills and passion in crafting award winning beers, delving into the subtleties and characters of each. Much of the collection is not only made in Northumberland, but with Northumberland too! Using locally foraged and sourced ingredients, First & Last Brewery Northumberland craft beers to give you a real taste of this beautiful county.

Adding flavour to the story of this small rural brewery, you will have the opportunity to sample a collection of their sought-after beers.

The night doesn’t end there! You will embark on a guided bat safari to track down the much-misunderstood creatures of the night that share the local landscape with the brewery. With bat detectors in hand, you will be able to eavesdrop on a whole new world of ultrasound clicks, slaps and pops as the bats hunt for ‘breakfast’, and chat with each other as they emerge from their roosts.

By joining this Mini Exped you will be contributing to the conservation of bats, which have cruised our starry night skies for millions of years.

Many of the beers provided will be suitable for vegans. Non-alcoholic hot and cold drinks will be available for those not drinking alcohol on the night, and there will be the opportunity to purchase beers to take home after the brewery tour & tasting.

There are plenty of wild encounters to enjoy in northern England, explore Wild Intrigue’s full collection here.

Ouseburn Bat Safari
2025-08-08 20:45 - 22:00 | Ouseburn, Spiller's Car Park, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE6 1AP, United Kingdom
Discover Ouseburn’s night life

As the sun sets, join Wild Intrigue on a journey to track down bats as they emerge from their roosts to begin their nightly foraging. With bat detectors in hand, you’ll eavesdrop on the ultrasonic clicks, slaps and pops as these mysterious mammals hunt and communicate with one another.

These amazing creatures have cruised our skies for millions of years, long before the first humans walked the earth! Delve into the bizarre anatomy and curious ecology of some of our planet’s most ancient mammals, right here in the heart of the city.

Proceeds from Wild Intrigue’s Ouseburn Bat Safaris go straight into better understanding and conserving bats in the Wild Ouseburn project area.

There are plenty of wild encounters to enjoy in northern England, explore our full collection here.
