Great British Bird Race

The dawn of the New Year brings with it an exciting and energetic event to start Naturetrek’s 40th anniversary year – the Naturetrek Great British Bird Race. In January 2026, we are delighted to offer a series of bird races across 11 of the UK’s finest counties for winter birding: Norfolk, Suffolk, Kent, Northumberland, Dorset, Hampshire, Yorkshire, Cornwall, Somerset, Gloucestershire and the Highlands of Scotland.

Each race offers a thrilling challenge: how many bird species can be recorded in two days in the field? While the premise is simple, the experience is anything but ordinary. With expert local guides, meticulously planned routes, and a sense of friendly competition, these tours offer birders the chance to push their skills, sharpen their ears, and immerse themselves in some of the UK's richest winter habitats.

From the sweeping marshes of Norfolk and Suffolk to the windswept heaths of Dorset and Hampshire to the open shingle shores of Kent, each county brings its own unique mix of habitats and target species. From Chough on wind-lashed Cornish headlands to Red Grouse in the rugged highlands of Scotland, our expert leaders will be working hard to find as many species of bird as possible in the allotted time.

Whether you are in the ancient wetlands of the Somerset Levels, the dales of Yorkshire or the wide-open coast of Northumberland, the race will test both fieldcraft and determination in breathtaking landscapes.

Any lingering winter rarities will be a bonus for any team and leaders will eagerly seek these out to boost their team’s total.

Speak to our Bird Race Operations Manager