North West Bird Watching Festival Unveils Inspiring Speaker Line-Up
From leading conservationists to acclaimed photographers and authors, WWT Martin Mere’s October event promises a rich weekend of talks, workshops, and wildlife spectacle
A celebration of birds, wildlife, and conservation
WWT Martin Mere has confirmed an exciting programme of guest speakers for this year’s North West Bird Watching Festival, taking place on 18–19 October. The annual Lancashire event, already a highlight in the region’s wildlife calendar, will bring together a wide range of naturalists, conservationists, authors, and photographers for a weekend dedicated to the natural world.
Festival visitors will have the opportunity to hear directly from some of the UK’s most engaging voices in wildlife and conservation, with talks covering everything from bird photography and rewilding to badgers, bees, and the cultural importance of nature. The speaker programme complements a wider schedule of ringing demonstrations, workshops, and the seasonal spectacle of thousands of pink-footed geese gathering on the reserve’s wetland landscape.
Wildlife through the lens
Two of the country’s most accomplished wildlife photographers, Ben Hall and Nick Wilcox-Brown, will showcase their work and discuss the stories behind capturing birds and nature on camera. Their sessions promise both technical insight and an artistic appreciation of the moments that define encounters with wildlife.
Conservation in action
Conservationists and ecologists are also at the heart of the programme. Alasdair McKee of RSPB, Matt Phelps from the Knepp Estate, and Martin Mere’s Centre Manager, Nick Brooks, will each highlight projects that are shaping the future of landscapes and species recovery. From pioneering rewilding to the challenges of managing key wetland reserves, these talks bring frontline conservation experience into focus.
Voices of natural history
Several well-known authors and naturalists will explore how wildlife continues to influence culture and society. Charlie Bingham, Conor Jameson, and Lucy Lapwing will share perspectives on how birds and biodiversity shape our sense of place, history, and imagination – helping us understand why conservation resonates so deeply in human life.
Broadening the conversation
The festival also draws in experts from beyond ornithology. Wader Quest will spotlight shorebirds and their conservation, while the Lancashire Badger Group and Simon Cordingley from The Bee Centre will remind audiences of the wider web of biodiversity that connects birds with other vital species.
Booking and entry
Talks are free to attend, though normal admission applies (with WWT members entering free). Places are limited and must be reserved on the day at the festival’s information desk on a first-come, first-served basis. The full speaker line-up can be found on the WWT Martin Mere website.
With its combination of expert voices, hands-on activities, and the seasonal drama of wild geese, the North West Bird Watching Festival is shaping up to be one of the most memorable weekends in the birding calendar.
A full list of guest speakers can be found on the WWT Martin Mere website.
September 2025
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