Books About Birds A guide to books about birds and birdwatching Home | Index | Search | Links | Contact


On this page

Birdwatching Sites Guides

This page lists the birdwatching site guides for the UK. For guides that have a number of editions only the most recent is listed. For additional information and earlier editions see the pages for counties and regions of the UK.

The guides on this page are listed by publication date with the most recent at the top of the page.

 

Best Birdwatching Sites: Scottish Highlands

Gordon Hamlett

Buckingham Press

2nd edition

2014

"The book covers a huge area - from Perthshire right up to the Caithness Flow Country - and as many of the best birding sites lie outside established nature reserves, and public transport is virtually unknown, a car is the only practical option for birders. For that reason author Gordon Hamlett has organised the information into a series of 24 mainland road trip itineraries, plus in-depth guides to the islands of Mull, Handa and Skye. Almost all the tours are circular in nature, with individual maps for each stopping-off point (the book contains an amazing 218 maps in total - 54 more than the 1st edition). Other features of the book include: birding tips for hundreds of sites based on the author’s practical experience; all sites evaluated for wheelchair access; comprehensive seasonal bird and wildlife lists for each route; what birds to expect - month by month; clear instructions on locating all named sites; a checklist of Highlands birds; useful contacts and websites."

Buy from amazon.co.uk

book cover


Best Birdwatching Sites: Norfolk

Neil Glenn

Buckingham Press

3rd edition

2013

"With the ground-breaking first edition of his Norfolk guide in 2002, author Neil Glenn set the benchmark for providing essential information needed by birdwatchers to make every outing a success. When combined with Hilary Cromack's detailed maps and attractive lay-outs, it created a formula that has not been surpassed. For this exciting Third Edition, Neil has re-evaluated every site, so the information is bang up to date and he's even managed to find nine sites that have never been covered in print before. Features include: information on 85 locations; practical birding tips for each site; detailed maps and access information; bird information for each site; target birds; and a month by month guide to birds."

Buy from amazon.co.uk

book cover


Birdwatching Walks in Gwent

William Venables, Andrew Baker, David Brassey

Gwent Ornithological Society

2013

"Presented here are over 60 walks to help you explore Gwent's magnificent countryside and its birds. The routes were provided by 26 experienced birdwatchers, each with an intimate knowledge of their particular area. In this book they share with you the secrets that will enable you to get the best birding experience from your walk."

For more information see the Gwent Ornithological Society website.

book cover

Norfolk Wildlife: A Calendar and Site Guide

Adrian M. Riley

Brambleby Books

2013

"This Guide of Norfolk presents a Wildlife Calendar showing when, where and how particularly birds, butterflies, dragonflies and damselflies, orchids and other wildflowers can be found, followed by recommended sites to visit, with yearplanners and checklists."

Buy from amazon.co.uk

book cover


RSPB British Birdfinder

Marianne Taylor

A & C Black

2012

"Most bird books are designed to help you identify the birds that you've seen. This book is different. It is a species-by-species guide that shows you how to find and watch more than 250 species of birds that can be seen in Britain. Some are common; others are rare migrants or scarce breeding birds, but this book will tell you the best places to see and watch all of them. Readers will be able to see their most coveted species but also enjoy rewarding watching experiences that will enhance their understanding of the species, of bird behaviour and of key fieldcraft techniques."

Buy from amazon.co.uk

book cover


Suffolk's Wildlife Coast: A Guide to the RSPB Nature Reserves in Coastal Suffolk

Malcolm Key, John Grant, Jenny James

RSPB

2012

"This new book will help you to find these reserves, guide you around them, explain their history and management, tell you which birds to expect in each season and give you details of the other animals and plants to be found there. Written and produced by members of the RSPB Woodbridge Local Group, as a successor to their previous book Spread Your Wings, its 124 pages are lavishly illustrated with maps and stunning photographs of wildlife. Suffolk's Wildlife Coast is packed with up-to-date information and data on species numbers and breeding success rates direct from the wardens and managers of the individual reserves. Suffolk's Wildlife Coast has been produced to show local residents and visitors alike the richness of wildlife waiting to be discovered. But it is also written in the context of the present challenges to wildlife and the success stories in dealing with these."

Buy from amazon.co.uk

book cover


Best Birdwatching Sites: North-East England

Brian Unwin

Buckingham Press

2012

"This latest addition to the Best Birdwatching Sites series is the largest yet produced, reflecting the wealth of birding riches uncovered by author Brian Unwin in all parts of Northumberland, Co Durham and Cleveland. Readers will find details of renowned sites such as the Farne Islands, Lindisfarne and the RSPB's exciting new Saltholme reserve, but Brian also enthuses about many exciting bird walks in inland Co Durham and Northumberland as well as coastal migrant hotspots and the former industrial sites now becoming havens for nature."

Buy from amazon.co.uk

book cover


Discover Yorkshire's Wildlife: Your Guide to Yorkshire Wildlife Trust's Nature Reserves

Editor: Jonathan Leadley, Joanna Richards

Yorkshire Wildlife Trust

2012

"Your guidebook to all of Yorkshire Wildlife Trust's nature reserves, as well as a guide to Sheffield Wildlife Trust's nature reserves and information on the top habitats and species found in the region. Yorkshire is world-renowned for its spectacular and varied landscapes teeming with wildlife. The county offers locals and visitors the chance to experience rugged coastline, majestic heather moorland, tranquil river valleys and ancient woodland within a single day. Yorkshire Wildlife Trust is the largest charity dedicated to wildlife conservation in the county. The Trust looks after many of Yorkshire's best wildlife sites and this book will help you explore and enjoy the landscape and wildlife of these beautiful places."

Buy from amazon.co.uk

book cover


Best Birdwatching Sites: Dorset

Neil Gartshore

Buckingham Press

2011

"Dorset is among the top six birding counties in Britain with 417 species on the bird list and a formidable reputation for rarities and large numbers of migrants each year. Armed with this book you'll be guided around established hotspots such as Portland, Arne and the Studland Peninsula, as well as many less well known areas away from the coast. Author Neil Gartshore is the perfect guide to a magical county which offers year-round birding excitement. He spent 15 years as an RSPB staff member on the Arne reserve and now works as a freelance bird surveyor, leads birding tours in Dorset and further afield and runs Calluna Books, who specialise in buying and selling out-of-print natural history books."

Buy from amazon.co.uk

book cover


A Guide to Birdwatching in the Lake District and the Coast of Cumbria

David Watson

Photoprint Scotland

2011

"If you are just becoming aware of the magic of birdwatching, this is for you,and the Lake District and coast of Cumbria is the perfect place to start. Lavishly illustrated with original photographs and maps, this well-structured Simple Guide is in two parts. Habits and Species describes the wide range of environments, and the birds you will likely see there at different seasons. Where to watch birds covers about 40 locations, for each supplying a classified range of information, how to get there, parking and facilities, a map, and the special birds to look out for. Each location has a double-page spread; the important locations are given extra treatment, including: Bassenthwaite Ospreys, St. Bees Head nesting seabirds, South Walney Gull colony, Caerlaverock Barnacle Geese and Ospreys, Solway Peninsula, Leighton Moss reed beds, and Grizedale Red Kites."

Buy from amazon.co.uk

book cover


Where to Watch Birds in Britain

Simon Harrap and Nigel Redman

Christopher Helm

2010

"This guide covers the very best birding sites in Britain. In a format familiar to readers of this popular series, each site is considered in terms of 'Habitat', Access' and 'Birds', allowing birders of all levels to plan successful birding trips anywhere in Britain, and to maximise the chances of getting the best out of each site and each region. The book includes detailed maps of the larger sites, plus general maps of the regions covered, and it is illustrated with attractive line drawings. This book has been extensively revised, with several new sites added for this edition, together with information on disabled access for most sites."

Buy from amazon.co.uk

book cover


Where to Watch Birds: Dorset, Hampshire & the Isle of Wight

George Green, Martin Cade

Christopher Helm

2010

"Whether local or visiting, expert or novice, Where to Watch birds in Dorset, Hampshire and the Isle of Wight is the essential guide for any active birdwatcher in these counties. All significant birdwatching areas in the region are analysed under the headings 'Habitat', 'Timing', 'Sites', Access' and 'Calendar', providing all the information necessary to make the most of each and every trip, whatever the time of year. This substantially revised and expanded edition has new chapters, details of 'clusters' of sites easily accessible from particular holiday or population centres, , as well as numerous examples of recent occurrences and significant status changes."

Buy from amazon.co.uk

book cover


Birdwatching Walks In The Lake District

John Wilson & David Hindle

Palatine Books

2010

"This wonderful new collection of walks combines the spectacular and beautiful scenery of the Lake District with excellent opportunities to see some of the area's birds and other wildlife. Each walk is designed for all ages and abilities, and for both keen and casual bird watchers, making this lovely book the perfect guide to a wonderful day out for everyone. With helpful guide maps, interesting bird and habitat information, travel hints and a bird reference section, Birdwatching walks in the Lake District should ensure that walkers really can get the best out of this stunning National Park and its rich and varied bird population. Includes 32-page colour bird/wildlife reference section."

Buy from amazon.co.uk

book cover


Best Birdwatching Sites: The Solway

John Miller

Buckingham Press

2010

"John Miles, a former RSPB reserve warden at Geltsdale, knows the region intimately and provides detailed reports on coastal sites in both Cumbria and Dumfries & Galloway, but also roams inland to cover the key wildlife watching sites in both counties ... In all, 378 species are covered. Naturally, the well known sites such as Caerlaverock, South Walney and the Golden Eagle watchpoint at Haweswater are included, but John's in-depth knowledge of both sides of the Solway means that many lesser known locations are also featured. This is a book that will appeal to walkers and birdwatchers alike. The Cumbria chapters cover 76 sites of which 54 contain walk routes (22 circular). On the Scottish side, 84 sites are covered with 49 of them offering walk routes."

Buy from amazon.co.uk

book cover


Birdwatching on Mull and Iona: A Pocket Guide With Maps

David Sexton

Illustrations: Philip Snow

Brown and Whittaker Publishing

2010

"This guide will take you to the best birdwatching places on Mull and Iona, and the surrounding waters. You will know where to find the famous white-tailed sea eagles and learn how to tell the difference between an eagle and a buzzard.

Buy from amazon.co.uk

book cover


Watching Wildlife in London: A Guide to More than 50 Key Sites and 500 Species

Marianne Taylor

New Holland Publishers

2010

"Many people are unaware that the city of London is rich in wildlife, and that many of the most interesting and spectacular species can be seen within a few minutes' walk of the tourist trail. The first eight chapters provide an informative 'where to watch' guide describing key sites from the centre to the suburbs, along with what you can expect to see there. This ranges from wildfowl and birds of prey in the centre of town to deer and other mammals around Richmond; from butterfly and wildflower hot-spots to a haven for wading birds and Water Voles beside the Thames. Each chapter gives a general overview of the terrain and the wildlife present, and series of boxed texts look in detail at interesting case studies, or personal 'pages from the notebook'. The final third of the book is a fully illustrated colour identification guide to 600 of the most common or remarkable species found in the capital, covering birds, animals, invertebrates and plants. The writing style is easy-going and engaging, aimed at a lay audience of city residents and visitors alike."

Buy from amazon.co.uk

book cover


The Ultimate Site Guide to Scarcer British Birds

Lee G.R. Evans

BirdGuides

2009

"In 1996 The Ultimate Site Guide became an instant classic - for the first time in one publication, birders discovered how and where to see over 100 rarer and difficult-to-find species. These are the birds that make birding such an exciting and rewarding activity: there's nothing like the thrill of tracking and observing elusive species such as Hawfinch, Spotted Crake and Great Grey Shrike. Now BirdGuides has re-published Lee Evans' original guide in a fully revised, updated and extended edition. The information has been carefully reviewed for accuracy and also remembering the need to protect vulnerable breeders. The species accounts have been further enhanced with more than 60 new vignettes from illustrator Ray Scally. For each of the 142 species covered this book tells you all you need to know, including: where to look, when to look, and exactly where to look."

book cover

Birdwatcher's Walks in a Box

David Tipling and John Parslow

Duncan PetersonPublishing

2009

"This is Britain's only Birdwatcher's walking guide on pocketable cards. This title features a box containing 50 walking cards filled with unique information on how to see local bird life on foot. Each has a different route fully described and illustrated on a large-scale, map plus details including illustrations of the species you may encounter. Pocket a card, leave the box on your bookshelf and enjoy your day out. It includes birdwatching routes for everyone. A happy mix of routes around Britain's loveliest towns and countryside, to suit both novice and experienced birdwatchers. Most are easy half-day walks, but some are more challenging two-day routes on folding out cards, ideal for a short walking break."

Buy from amazon.co.uk

book cover


RSPB Where to Discover Nature: In Britain and Northern Ireland

Marianne Taylor

A & C Black

2009

"This is the first book to explore in detail every RSPB reserve in Britain, from the wild forests of Caledonia and teeming seabird cities of the northern coasts, to the rolling heathlands, pristine wetlands and urban oases of the south. Here you'll find everything you need to plan and enjoy days out at some of the best wildlife-watching places anywhere, with full details of access arrangements, visitor facilities, advice on when to visit and the wildlife you can expect to see throughout the year. For every reserve you'll find a map of how to get here and, where appropriate, the trails around the reserve and the habitats you'll find, so you can plan your visit according to what you'd like to see and how much time you have to visit. Illustrated throughout with colour photographs of these beautiful wild places and the animals and plants that live in them."

Buy from amazon.co.uk

book cover


Where to Watch Birds: Kent, Surrey & Sussex

Don Taylor, Jeffrey Wheatley and Paul James

Christopher Helm

2009

"The south-eastern corner of England is a densely populated region but one which holds many rich bird habitats. For example, on the south coast of East Sussex and Kent there are undisturbed shingle beaches supporting nationally important tern colonies, and inland there are Surrey heaths, important for many nationally scarce species like Dartford Warbler and Woodlark. In north Kent there is a network of important sites along the Swale estuary which are of great importance for passage and wintering waders and wildfowl. These counties also often attract large numbers of passage migrants, including vagrant rarities from the continent. This guide explores the best birding sites in Kent, Surrey and Sussex. Several new sites have been added to this revised and updated fifth edition. Each site is described in terms of 'Habitat', 'Species', 'Access' and 'Birds', and the volume is illustrated throughout with line drawings and maps of each site. The manual seeks to enable birders to plan productive trips at any time of the year."

Buy from amazon.co.uk

book cover


Where to Watch Birds: Ireland

Paul Milne

Christopher Helm

2009

"This new edition covers the best birdwatching sites in Ireland. In a format familiar to readers of this popular series, each site is considered in terms of 'Habitat', Access' and 'Birds', allowing birders of all levels to plan successful birding trips anywhere in Ireland, and to maximise the chances of getting the best out of each site and each region. The book includes up-to-date, detailed maps and attractive line drawings. This book has been extensively revised, with several new sites added for this edition, together with information on disabled access for most sites."

Buy from amazon.co.uk

book cover


Bird Watching in Sussex

Rob Yarham

A Sussex Guide

Snake River Press

2009

"Did you know you that nightingales regularly sing in a Billinghurst rubbish tip? Or that peregrine falcons make themselves at home on top of Chichester Cathedral? Even if you can't tell a hobby from a handsaw, the sight of a soaring bird over the Sussex Downs always lifts the heart. That's what seasoned birdwatcher Rob Yarham believes, and to help the rest of us to get more out of these life affirming moments, he has chosen his top 20 Sussex birds and written an affectionate personal tribute to each of them. His descriptions of the birds and his encounters with them will inspire you to go out looking with new eyes. The second-half of the book is devoted to a review of the best sites and places to find Rob's top 20, and many other fascinating birds: Sussex natives, incomers and birds of passage. With a foreword by popular TV wildlife presenter Chris Packham, this is an ideal introduction for newcomers to bird-watching in Sussex."

Buy from amazon.co.uk

book cover


Where to Watch Birds: Devon & Cornwall: Including the Isles of Scilly and Lundy

David Norman & Vic Tucker

Christopher Helm

2009

"Whether local or visiting, expert or novice, Where to Watch Birds in Devon and Cornwall is the essential guide for any active birdwatcher in these counties. All significant birdwatching areas in the region are analysed under the headings 'Habitat', 'Timing', 'Access' and 'Calendar', providing all the information necessary to make the most of each and every trip, whatever the time of year. This substantially revised and expanded edition has new chapters, details of 'clusters' of sites easily accessible from particular holiday or population centres, additional information on access for the car-bound or disabled, as well as numerous examples of recent occurrences and significant status changes."

Buy from amazon.co.uk

book cover


Birding In Glamorgan

Alan Rosney and Richard Smith

Foreword: Iolo Williams

Glamorgan Bird Club

2009

Describes 53 birdwatching sites in the area with maps and lists of expected species.

Buy from amazon.co.uk

book cover


Birds, Boots and Butties: Conwy Valley/Eastern Snowdonia

Ruth Miller

Llygad Gwalch Cyf

2009

A birdwatching and walking guide to the Conwy Valley and Eastern Snowdonia.

Buy from amazon.co.uk

book cover


Birds, Boots and Butties: Anglesey

Ruth Miller

Llygad Gwalch Cyf

2009

A birdwatching and walking guide to Anglesey.

Buy from amazon.co.uk

book cover


Where to Watch Birds: Yorkshire (including the former North Humberside)

John Mather

Christopher Helm

2008

"This is a detailed account of over 100 of the best birdwatching sites in the great county on Yorkshire. The sites range from Spurn Point in the south-east, northwards along the coast to Flamborough Head and the Tees estuary and inland along the Pennine Chain with its many reservoirs and the high barren moorlands to the rolling hills of the North York moors. Every site is described with directions for access and distances for travel as well as lists of all species to be found at the various seasons."

Buy from amazon.co.uk

book cover


Where to Watch Birds: Wales

Dave Saunders, Jon Green

Christopher Helm

2008

"This is the fourth edition of this very popular site guide. Wales remains one of the most alluring regions for birdwatchers; its range of habitats ensures a wide variety of species amidst the often spectacular scenery. This new edition includes many additional sites added, new up-to-date maps and line drawings, and fully revised and expanded text."

Buy from amazon.co.uk

book cover


Where to Watch Birds: North West England

Allan Conlin, Dr J P Cullen, Pete Marsh, Tristan Reid, Chris Sharpe, Judith Smith, Stephen Williams

Christopher Helm

2008

"A guide to the best birding sites in the north western counties of Cumbria, Lancashire and Cheshire. This area holds some of the finest upland sites in England, as well as some superb wetlands including Morecambe Bay which holds the largest wader roost in the country. The western coast of Northern England has a good record for attracting Nearctic vagrants, and the Lake District is the only place in England where Golden Eagles breed. The guide explores the best birding sites in the area, and several new sites have been added to this revised and updated third edition. Each site is described in terms of habitat, species, access and timing, and the volume is illustrated throughout with line drawings and maps of each site. This book seeks to enable birders plan productive trips at any time of the year."

Buy from amazon.co.uk

book cover


Best Birdwatching Sites: Cornwall & Scilly

Sarah McMahon and Nigel Hudson

Illustrations: Alan Harris

Buckingham Press

2008

"Sara McMahon, a long-time officer of the county bird club, provides detailed assessments of 52 key birding areas, ranging from established nature reserves such as RSPB Marazion Marsh to the western valleys, such as Cot Valley and Nanquidno, which provide a welcome refuge for exhausted vagrants from America and Siberia each autumn. Inland areas are well covered with detailed reports on reservoirs such as Drift and Stithians and moorland sites such as Golitha and Tamar Lakes, but it is the coastal locations which receive the greatest attention and Sara provides a complete guide to seawatching with details of species and sites, plus her fieldcraft tips based on hard-won experience. Scilly is famous for its incredible track record in turning up rare and interesting birds and many birders make an annual pilgrimage to these attractive islands each autumn. Nigel Hudson, secretary of the British Birds Rarity Committee, provides a detailed guide to each of the significant islands in the archipeligo, plus details of ferries and inter-island boats to ensure your visit is a great success."

Buy from amazon.co.uk

book cover


Birdwatching On The Solway Coast: Area Of Outstanding Beauty

Brian Irving

Solway Coast AONB

2008

"Following on from the successful booklet, Exploring the Wildflowers of the Solway Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Brian Irving, AONB Manager, has produced, Birdwatching in the Solway Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The booklet provides a photographic record of some of the birds to be seen in and around the AONB, and where to find them. Using his own photographs to illustrate it, it is an ideal accompaniment for anyone interested in finding out where best to see the birdlife of the Solway."

book cover

Birdwatching Walks in the Yorkshire Dales

Brendan Threlfall

Carnegie Publishing

2008

"The Yorkshire Dales is an enchantingly beautiful area in the heart of northern England. It is a land of limestone pavements and scars, fast-flowing rivers and dramatic waterfalls, lonely heather moors and picturesque villages and valleys. But as well as its wonderful landscapes, the Dales is also a special place for many bird species, and these twin assets are combined in this excellent new book. Each of these well designed walks is set in gorgeous countryside where there is also every chance of seeing some of the birds which abounds in the area. Both novice and experienced birders can enjoy the dippers at Aysgarth, or great spotted woodpeckers in Grass Woods, as well as the rarer black grouse, wood warbler, pied flycatcher and nightjar, to name but a few. With helpful guide maps, interesting bird and habitat information, travel hints and a bird reference section, Birdwatching walks in the Yorkshire Dales should ensure that walkers of all abilities really can get the best out of this stunning National Park and its rich and varied bird population."

Buy from amazon.co.uk

book cover


Explore Wild Essex: A Guide to the Nature Reserves and Country Parks Essex and East London

Editor: Tony Gunton

Lopinga Books in association with the Essex Wildlife Trust

2008

"The publication includes details of all Essex Wildlife Trust nature reserves and 180 other wildlife sites across the county. A total of 40,000 acres of wildlfe sites across Essex are included. Tables and indexes help you to choose the best time to visit and which sites have the facilities you need. Over 200 detailed colour maps help you to find and explore each site. Colour photographs illustrate the most interesting Essex animals, plants and habitats."

Buy from amazon.co.uk

book cover


Where to Watch Birds: West Midlands

Steve Coney, Frank Gribble, Helen J. Griffiths, Graham Harrison, Jim Winsper

Christopher Helm

2007

"Herefordshire, Shropshire, Staffordshire, Warwickshire, Worcestershire and the former West Midlands County are collectively known as the West Midlands. This is a region of contrasts: from the bleak moors of Peak District to the mellow hills of the Cotswolds; or from the wooded hillsides and streams of the Welsh border country to the lush valleys of the Avon. Within its rich mosaic of habitats can be found a combination of northern species such as Twite and Black Grouse and southern ones such as Nightingale; western ones like the Pied Flycatcher and the eastern Red-legged Partridge. Black Redstarts maintain a tenuous presence in the hub of Birmingham and the Marsh Warbler can still be found in Worcestershire. This third edition has been extensively revised and updated, with several new sites added and some existing site accounts considerably expanded. It is the essential tool for anyone birding in this rewarding region."

Buy from amazon.co.uk

book cover


Kent: A Birdwatcher's Site Guide

Chris Bradshaw and Simon Busuttil

Shoebill Books

2007

"Features 58 birdwatching sites, with information on the best times to go, what to expect, how to get there and more."

Buy from amazon.co.uk

book cover


Best Birdwatching Sites: North Wales

Alan Davies and Owen Roberts

Buckingham Press

2007

"This book features around 60 sites from South Stack on Anglesey to Gresford Flash near Wrexham, together with detailed maps and access information, disabled access, public transport information and even a guide on how to pronounce the Welsh names correctly."

Buy from amazon.co.uk

book cover


Finding Birds in Ireland

Eric Dempsey and Michael O'Clery

Gill & Macmillan

2007

"Organised county by county, this is an easy-to-follow handbook giving the site names, grid references, detailed directions and maps for each site. It includes the best times to visit each area, a breakdown of the different seasons and the species you are likely to find, and lists rare birds seen at each site in the past. "Finding Birds in Ireland" will become a well-thumbed addition to any birdwatcher's reference library as well as a celebratory record of the beauty and variety of birds in Ireland."

Buy from amazon.co.uk

book cover


Birdwatching Walks Around Morecambe Bay

John Wilson & David Hindle

Palatine Books

2007

"Morecambe Bay area is one of the finest bird watching sites in Great Britain. With 310 square kilometres of inter-tidal sand flats, it is an outstanding combination of habitats. This book, with forty specially chosen walks, covers Morecambe Bay, from the Wyre estuary in the south to Walney Island in the north. It embraces the neighbouring Duddon estuary and the peripheral areas of the southern Lake District and Forest of Bowland. It also describes where and when to find the birds and other wildlife in this unique area."

Buy from amazon.co.uk

book cover


Where to Watch Birds: East Midlands

Rob Fray

Christopher Helm

2006

"The five counties covered in this guide (Derbyshire, Leicestershire, Lincolnshire, Northamptonshire and Nottinghamshire) comprise natural and man-made areas as diverse as the Wash, Rutland Water and Sherwood Forest. Famous migration hot spots are found on the Lincolnshire coast, while the river valleys of the Humber, Trent, Welland and Nene all atttract a wide range of species. Following the series format, each of the 49 major sites is dealt with in detail, providing information on habitat, access, best times of the year to visit and the species likely to be encountered. Maps and line drawings enhance this exhaustive text."

Buy from amazon.co.uk

book cover


Best Birdwatching Sites: Scottish Highlands

Gordon Hamlett

Buckingham Press

2005

"The format of this book differs from the rest of the series because the area covered is huge – from Perthshire right up to the Caithness flow country – and many of the best birding sites lie outside established nature reserves. As a car is the only practical vehicle for birders, author Gordon Hamlett has organised the information into a series of 20 mainland road trip itineraries, plus guides to the islands of Handa and Skye. The tours are all circular, with individual maps for each stopping-off point (the book contains an amazing 164 maps in total). As an example, the Speyside itinerary features no fewer than 19 sites, ranging from extensive entries for Boat of Garten and the Loch Garten area down to simple one paragraph tips for finding Crested Tits in Moremoor car park."

Buy from amazon.co.uk

book cover


Where To See Wildlife in Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire & Northamptonshire

Editor: B.S. Nau, C.R. Boon, J.P. Knowles

Castlemead Publications

2005

"This stunning 152 page full colour handbook covers our local Wildlife Trust nature reserves across Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Northamptonshire & Peterborough. It includes photographs of each reserve and its wildlife, location maps and directions, together with descriptions and the best season to visit."

Buy from amazon.co.uk

book cover

book cover


Birdwatching Walks In Bowland

John Wilson & David Hindle

Palatine Books

2005

"The forest of Bowland is a truly stunning and immensely important Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Many species of birds - some of them rare - are there to be enjoyed within the varied habitats of the Bowland landscape, a fact that is celebrated to the full in this superb new book. Over 30 scenic walks cover the whole of the area, from Lancaster to Pendle, and from Preston to Settle, each one designed to give the walker the chance to encounter a wide range of different birdlife in a magnificent Bowland setting."

Buy from amazon.co.uk

book cover


Where to Watch Birds: North East England

Dave Britton & John Day

Christopher Helm

2004

"The sparsely-populated northeast of England, comprising the counties of Northumberland, Tyne & Wear and Durham, has much to offer birders. Its coastline includes some important seabird cliffs, as well as tidal estuaries which are highly attractive to wintering and migrating wildfowl and waders. The Farne Islands are famous for their spectacular tern colonies and other breeding seabirds including Eider. The entire coastline is good for seawatching and also highly attractive to migrating passerines with many rarities recorded. Inland, the rugged and spectacular scenery of Northumberland hosts a range of upland species, and there are important reservoirs and wooded areas in the region. This second edition has been extensively revised and updated, with several new sites added and some existing site accounts considerably expanded. It is the essential tool for anyone birding in this rewarding region."

Buy from amazon.co.uk

book cover


Where to Watch Birds: Somerset, Avon & Gloucestershire

Ken Hall, John Govett

Christopher Helm

2004

"This new edition covers all of the best birding sites in the south-western counties of Somerset, Avon, Gloucestershire and Wiltshire. This is a relatively undeveloped region of England, with some of the finest and most extensive ancient woodlands in the country. It also boasts some of the fine wetlands in the Somerset Levels, and many inland reservoirs, as well as upland areas, quality farmland and a varied coastline. This guide describes each site in terms of habitat, species, access, timing and calendar, enabling all birders to get the best out of any birding excursion in the region at any time of the year."

Buy from amazon.co.uk

book cover


Where to Watch Birds In Britain & Ireland

David Tipling

New Holland

Hardback: 2004

Paperback: 2006

"This practical book covers 300 of the most interesting and popular sites to watch birds in Britain and Ireland, offering details on habitat type and size, access and location, facilities, the best times of year to visit and the types of birds you are likely to encounter."

Buy from amazon.co.uk

book cover

book cover


Birding in Pembrokeshire

Jonathan Green and Owen Roberts

Welsh Ornithological Society

2004

Describes the species to be found in the county and lists the best birdwatching sites.

Buy from amazon.co.uk

book cover


Islands of Birds: A Guide to Orkney Birds

Eric Meek

RSPB

4th edition

2004

A photographic guide to birdwatching sites on the islands plus annotated species list.

book cover

Exploring the Shore in Northumberland and Berwickshire

Jane Lancaster

Northumberland County Council

2004

"A guide to the seashore life of the Northumberland and Berwickshire coastline, from the Coquet estuary to St Abb's Head. For each section, there is a map, information about the type of shore, advice on where to find interesting sea life, accompanied by pictures and guidance on access, safety, transport and local services."

Buy from amazon.co.uk

book cover


Best Birdwatching Sites: Sussex

Adrian Thomas and Peter Francis

Buckingham Press

2003

"From Scotney Court in the east to Chichester Harbour in the west, the two counties of Sussex abound in great birding sites and authors Adrian Thomas of the RSPB and Peter Francis have detailed 57 of the best for this book, making it the most comprehensive birding guide for Sussex on the market. The wellknown sites such as RSPB Pulborough Brooks, WWT Arundel, Pagham and Rye Harbour naturally receive detailed coverage, but the authors have followed the less-travelled roads as well to highlight the promise of sites such as Chapel Common with its Dartford Warblers, Wood Larks and Nightjars or Combe Haven near Hastings where Bearded Tits lurk in the massive reedbed and Water Pipits are regular winter visitors. Though East and West Sussex don't attract the rarities of the east coast or south-western counties, it is well located to experience wader and wildfowl passage on a large scale or to watch out for incoming spring migrants. As part of their Birding Year in Sussex article, the authors provide migrant arrival dates for March and April and supplement this with a detailed guide to spring seawatching that includes the top sites and a chart showing when key species reach their peak numbers between February and May."

Buy from amazon.co.uk

book cover


The Wildlife of Mull and How to Find It

Jay Butler and Anna Levin

Brown and Whittaker Publishing

2003

"A guide to how, where and when to see the wildlife on the island of Mull, whether you are exploring by car or on foot."

Buy from amazon.co.uk

book cover


Birdwatching in Ayrshire and Arran

Ayrshire Branch, Scottish Ornithologists Club

2003

"This booklet is packed with information and photos on the best places to watch birds in Ayrshire. The Guide gives details on access (including suitability for disabled bird watchers), a description of the habitat and the birds you can expect to see, available public transport and cycle routes, and other usual information. This has been compiled from the location reports submitted by local birders."

book cover

Where to Watch Birds: Scotland

Mike Madders

Christopher Helm

2002

"This bird-finding guide is a reference to the best birding sites of Scotland. Each site is described in terms of the nature of the habitat, the species likely to be observed, the recommended timings for visits to get the best from the site, and a calendar showing which species are found in the various seasons. The site accounts also mention other interesting wildlife that may be encountered - for example, Scotland is home to some of Britain's most enigmatic mammal species."

Buy from amazon.co.uk

book cover


Where to Watch Birds: Thames Valley & The Chilterns

Brian Clews and Paul Trodd

Christopher Helm

2002

"A guide to birdwatching in the Thames Valley and all the counties crossed by the Chilterns (Bedfordshire, Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Hertfordshire and Oxfordshire). This region includes some of England's best inland reservoirs and other wetland sites, as well as extensive areas of ancient woodland, and traditionally-managed farmland. The volume contains site accounts, plans, maps, lists of birds in the region and advice on planning birdwatching trips."

Buy from amazon.co.uk

book cover


Birdwatching Walks in Cumbria

Tim Dean and Jeremy Roberts

Carnegie Publishing

2002

"This excellent book details no fewer than fifty gentle walks in Cumbria with excellent birdwatching. Easy-to-follow route maps are provided for all walks, each of which ends at the same place it starts. Each walk suggests the best places to look, and species to watch out for. Walks can be planned using the invaluable seasonal occurrence chart. Written by highly respected and well-known experts in the field."

Buy from amazon.co.uk

book cover


Where to Watch Birds: East Anglia

Peter & Margaret Clarke

Christopher Helm

4th edition

2002

"East Anglia is one of the best birding regions in England. With its extensive areas of nationally scarce habitat such as the fens, reedbeds, undisturbed beaches and Breckland heath, it can be the only place to see several of England's most exciting birds. This is a guide to where to go in East Anglia to see many different species. It contains site accounts, plans, maps, lists of birds in the region and advice on planning birdwatching trips. This fourth edition is revised and updated."

Buy from amazon.co.uk

book cover

book cover


Easy Birdwatching Again: A Guide To 59 Sites In Suffolk Suitable For The Less Mobile

Suffolk Ornitholigists Club

2002

Buy from amazon.co.uk

book cover


Where to Go for Wildlife in Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire

Editor: Sue Mitchell and Geoffrey Young

Pisces Publications

Originally published in 1989

6th edition

2002

"Guide to nature reserves owned or managed by the Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire Wildlife Trust."

Buy from amazon.co.uk

book cover


Norfolk: A Birdwatcher's Site Guide

Phil Benstead, Steve Rowland and Richard Thomas

Shoebill Books

2001

"Norfolk: A Birdwatcher's Site Guide is the first comprehensive guide to arguably the UK's foremost birdwatching county. This guide covers a whole range of sites, from the places everyone has heard of, like Cley, to places that even experienced Norfolk birdwatchers may never have been to. Each site entry has details of: how you get there; where you go; when you visit; what birds you look for; how you get permits and where you find the nearest garage and other amenities. If you are a seasoned Norfolk birdwatcher, or this is your first visit to this magical county, this is the essential guide to get the most out of your birdwatching."

Buy from amazon.co.uk

book cover


Watching Wildlife in Suffolk: A Guide to Suffolk Wildlife Trust Nature Reserves

Editor: Audrey Boyle and Bill Stevenson

Suffolk Wildlife Trust

2001

Buy from amazon.co.uk

book cover


Finding Birds in Britain

Lee G.R. Evans

Gostours

2000

"Provides a complete guide to finding over 100 species which are either restricted to a few key sites or are difficult to find. Each species has up to 6 pages of coverage, listing up to 50 sites, and including maps and grid references. Detailed notes recommend the best time of year to view each species."

Buy from amazon.co.uk

book cover


Where to Watch Birds in Shetland

Hugh Harrop

2nd edition

2000

"A detailed site guide to these exciting islands written by a man who lives and birds there. Sections on general bird life, travel and accommodation with details for 72 sites including Fair Isle."

Buy from amazon.co.uk

book cover


A Visitors Guide To The Birds of Coquetdale (Including Coquet Island)

Mike Fielding

Powdene

2000

A guide to the birdwatching sites of the area plus a checklist of species recorded there.

Buy from amazon.co.uk

book cover


Where to Watch Birds: Bedfordshire, Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Hertfordshire & Oxfordshire

Brian Clews, Andrew Heryet, Paul Trodd

Christopher Helm

1997

"One of a series of in-depth guides to birdwatching in different regions. Each book contains site accounts, plans, maps, lists of birds in the region and advice on planning birdwatching trips. This is a book on birds in Bedfordshire, Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Herfordshire and Oxfordshire counties, rich areas for birdwatching, each with a wide variety of sites. Three local experts have drawn together the best of these sites to offer a comprehensive and unique guide to birdwatching in this region. This edition has been thoroughly revised with new maps, sites and totally re-written site accounts."

Buy from amazon.co.uk

book cover


Where to Watch Birds: Cumbria, Lancashire & Cheshire

Jonathan Guest, Malcolm Hutchinson

Christopher Helm

1997

"A guide to Cumbria, Lancashire and Cheshire - counties which boast some of the most varied bird habitats in Britain. For this second edition new sites have been added, the maps have been redrawn and the information has been updated."

Buy from amazon.co.uk

book cover


Where to Watch Birds: London area

Dominic Mitchell, Jan Wilczur

Christopher Helm

1997

"This is one of a series of guides on birdwatching in different regions. It contains site accounts, plans, maps, lists of birds in the region, and advice on planning birdwatching trips. The book covers every key site from the Central London parks to the marshes of the Thames, and the wetlands and reservoirs of the Colne and Lee Valleys. It also covers advice about habitat, the birds most likely to be seen, when to visit to see which species of bird, and how to get there, including full public transport information."

Buy from amazon.co.uk

book cover


Top Birding Spots in Britain and Ireland

David Tipling

Collins

1996

"A guide to over 400 of the best birdwatching spots in Britain and Ireland -- including all RSPB reserves. Each site is described, including details of what you will see in each season, and other attractions in the area."

Buy from amazon.co.uk

book cover


Birdwatching In The Outer Hebrides

Peter Cunningham, Tim Dix and Philip Snow

Saker Press

1995

A guide to birdwatching sites on the Outer Hebrides.

Buy from amazon.co.uk

book cover


Birdwatching in Britain: A Site by Site Guide

John Gooders

Silverdale Books

1992

Buy from amazon.co.uk

book cover


Where To Watch Birds In Durham

Editor: Keith Bowey

Durham Bird Club

1992

"This highly informative booklet contains details of 39 of the premier birdwatching sites in the County, with location, access and site details as well as information on birds to be seen and the best times to visit. A gazetteer lists a further 60 sites, with descriptions ranging from a line or two to a paragraph. The booklet contains eight colour photographs of bird species, and line drawings by Chris Gibbins and Chris Donald, as well a regional, site and a county map."

Buy from amazon.co.uk

book cover


The Complete Birdwatcher's Guide

John Gooders

Illustrations: Alan Harris, Terence Lambert and others

Kingfisher Books

1988

"A book for birdwatchers, with an identification guide and a site directory of key locations in Britain and Ireland. It describes the appearance, behaviour, distribution and other aspects of more than 300 species, and provides practical information such as transport and access details for the sites."

Buy from amazon.co.uk

book cover


Birdwatching in Britain: A Site by Site Guide

Simon Harrap and Nigel Redman

Christopher Helm

1987

Buy from amazon.co.uk

book cover


The New Where to Watch Birds

John Gooders

Illustrations: Alan Harris

Andre Deutsch

1986

Buy from amazon.co.uk

book cover


Birdwatch Round Britain: A Personal Selection Of Britain's Bird Reserves

Robert Dougal and Herbert Axell

Illustrations: Robert Gillmor

Collins and Harvill

1982

190 pages with b/w and colour photographs, maps and line drawings by Robert Gillmor.

Buy from amazon.co.uk

book cover


The Bird-watcher's Guide to the Wetlands of Britain

M.A. Ogilvie

Batsford

1979

A guide to wetland bird watching sites in Britain.

Buy from amazon.co.uk

book cover




Last updated August 2013