Home Education Day - March 2026
2026-03-03 09:30 - 15:00 (Europe/London) | Stanwick Lakes, NN9 6GY
Our next Home Education Day will be taking place on Tuesday 3rd March 2026. Everyone is welcome but it will be best suited to learners aged 5–11 or those accessing the Key Stage 1 & 2 curriculum. Timed sessions will include Feathered Friends, Mosaic Makers: Life in Roman Britain and a Ranger-led Forest Craft adventure. As well as more informal, drop-in learning activities linked to World Book Day.
Families with children aged 2 and under are welcome. As these children are not able to participate in activities, there is no need to book a space
Car parking is included in your ticket price if you provide your registration at the time of booking (for our ANPR system).
We can’t wait to see you there.
Nature – Feathered Friends
Discover the wonderful world of birds. Learn to identify and name common species using simple classification keys and explore the purpose of feathers and other features, to compare different types of birds.
Heritage – Mosaic Makers: Life in Roman Britain
Discover how the Romans shaped life in Britain, from culture to beliefs. Before designing your very own mosaic inspired by Roman patterns and symbols.
Adventure – Forest Craft
Explore our new woodland workshop and learn simple wood working techniques to make your very own wood creature.

Batik Silk Painting Workshop - Spring Sunshine
2026-03-06 10:00 - 14:00 (Europe/London)
Step into a world of colour and creativity this spring and learn the art of Batik Silk Painting workshop led by local artist Lisa Deighan.
In this hands-on, beginner-friendly class, Lisa will guide you through the beautiful and organic process of batik, a centuries-old technique that uses melted wax and vibrant inks on silk to create rich, flowing designs. Over four hours, you’ll experiment with mark-making, layering, and colour blending, before crafting your own unique silk artwork inspired by the natural forms of spring.
By the end of the session, you’ll leave not only with a framed piece of art to treasure (or gift!) but also with the confidence to continue exploring this versatile medium at home.
All materials are included, along with plenty of encouragement, expert tips, and creative inspiration. Whether you’re completely new to silk painting or simply curious to try something different, this is a relaxed and rewarding way to spend the day.
Please bring an apron or wear old clothes as the inks may stain clothing.
Please note lunch is not provided, but you are welcome to bring your own packed lunch or visit our Visitor Centre Café.

Finds Fridays at Stanwick Lakes
2026-03-06 10:30 - 13:30 (Europe/London) | Stanwick Lakes, NN9 6GY
Discover more about the objects you’ve found with Northamptonshire’s Finds Liaison Officer, Eleanore Cox.
We’re delighted to host Eleanore from the Northamptonshire Portable Antiquities Scheme for two special FREE drop-in Finds Days:

Friday 6th March, 10.30am–1.30pm
Friday 4th September, 10.30am–1.30pm

Whether you’ve uncovered something while out metal detecting, unearthed an interesting object in the garden, or held onto a mysterious family heirloom, bring it along.
The Northamptonshire Finds Liaison Officer (FLO) helps identify and record archaeological finds that are over 300 years old, whether they’ve been discovered in Northamptonshire or elsewhere in the UK. This includes items such as coins, metal objects, jewellery, tools, or any other historic artefacts you may have uncovered.
Eleanore will be available to help identify, record, and share the story behind your finds, contributing to the Portable Antiquities Scheme national project to enhance our understanding of the past.
No booking needed—just pop in with your items and have a chat.
Usual car parking charges apply.

LinoCut: Make an Easter Card
2026-03-14 13:30 - 16:00 (Europe/London) | Stanwick Lakes, NN9 6GY
Join us for a creative and hands-on workshop where you’ll design and carve your very
own linocut stamp and then use it to print a unique Easter card. Over the course of the
session, experienced printmaker, Kerrie Suteu, will guide you through each step:
sketching your design, transferring it onto lino, carving safely, inking your block, and
printing your card on quality paper. By the end of the day you’ll leave with a finished
Easter card (or a small set) ready to send or gift, plus the skills and confidence to print
again at home.
All materials are included—linoleum blocks, carving tools, inks, papers—and you’ll get
expert guidance in a relaxed and supportive setting. Whether you’ve never carved
before or want to try a new printmaking technique, this workshop is perfect for you.
Please bring an apron or wear clothes you don’t mind getting a little ink on. A range of
inspirational motifs will be provided, but please feel free to bring along your own
sketches or ideas.

A Mother's Day Treat: Afternoon Tea with live music
2026-03-15 14:00 - 17:00 (Europe/London) | Stanwick Lakes, NN9 6GY
Celebrate Mum with a touch of jazz and a perfect Afternoon Treat

This Mother’s Day, treat her to a relaxed Afternoon Tea in our lakeside café – a lovely way to spend time together in a scenic setting. The afternoon will be accompanied by live music from Maestro Lincoln Noel, whose background in theatre, jazz and event performance brings a thoughtful mix of jazz-influenced melodies, classic show tunes and light pop favourites. A warm, easy-going way to mark Mother’s Day.
Enjoy a classic afternoon tea spread of freshly prepared finger sandwiches, warm scones with clotted cream and jam, and an assortment of cakes and pastries, all paired with your choice of tea, coffee, or something sparkling to make a real treat of it. Whether you’re catching up with family, spending time with a friend, or simply treating someone special, this is a lovely way to mark the day together.
Perfect for:• Quality time with the special women in your life• A gentle spring afternoon with sweet and savoury treats• A relaxed celebration in nature’s backdrop
For lunch, indulge in a classic afternoon tea while Lincoln plays from 2pm to 4pm. Sittings are 1:30pm – 2:45pm or 3pm – 4:15pm and soak up the atmosphere.
Spaces are limited, so book early to avoid disappointed. A £10 deposit is required at the time of booking.
Options:
Afternoon Tea from £24.95 per person.
Sparkling Afternoon Tea from £31.95 per person.
Children’s Afternoon Tea from £15.95 per person. All Children Afternoon Tea packages must be booked alongside an Adult’s Afternoon Tea.
Please choose your preferred sitting and the number of tickets for all members of your party and you will be able to choose options at the next stage.

Spring Craft Fair
2026-03-21 10:00 - 2026-03-22 16:00 UTC | Stanwick Lakes, NN9 6GY
Spring Craft Fair at Stanwick Lakes
Looking for unique, nature-inspired gifts or a treat for yourself? Join us at Stanwick Lakes for our annual Spring Craft Fair, where local artists and makers will showcase their one-of-a-kind creations in a beautiful setting, outside along the lakeside.
Date: Saturday 21st and Sunday 22nd March 2026
Time: 10am – 4pm
Discover an array of handmade treasures, including silk batik, macramé, crochet toys, wood carvings, and more. Traditional crafting techniques will be on display, giving you a chance to find something truly special—whether it’s for yourself or a loved one.
With unique items you won’t find on the High Street, it’s the perfect opportunity to support local artisans and bring a piece of nature home.
Don’t miss out—see you there!

Glass Fusion - Butterfly Workshop
2026-03-21 10:30 - 15:30 (Europe/London) | Stanwick Lakes, NN9 6GY
In this five-hour workshop you will make a fused glass butterfly. You will have a choice of fixings so that it can be that can either be hung as a light catcher or fixed to a wall/fence by a ‘stand-off’ fixing. You will learn to create a clear base and then create your design using cut glass and embellished with pre-fused cabochons. This workshop is aimed at people with some glass experience as accurate cutting skills are required. There will be a thirty-minute break for lunch, you are welcome to bring a packed lunch or visit our café.
After the workshop your butterflies will be taken to Sally’s studio where they will be fired twice in kiln. They will be ready 14 days after the workshop and can be collected from Stanwick Lakes or posted out to you for the cost of the postage.
Old clothes are recommended. Please do not wear open toed shoes.

Slow Stitching: Folk Tales & Story Stitches
2026-03-22 10:00 - 16:00 (Europe/London) | Stanwick Lakes, NN9 6GY
Immerse yourself in a full day of creative exploration, working with naturally dyed fabrics and mindful slow-stitching techniques to create your own unique textile artwork. Learn how natural dyes are made, uncover their origins, and enjoy the folk tales and traditions woven into their history.
Guided by experienced textile artist Olivia Wilson, you’ll experiment with colour, texture, and hand-stitching while connecting with the calming rhythm of making by hand. Leave with new skills, fresh inspiration, and a beautifully crafted piece that reflects your personal journey through colour and cloth.
Slow Stitching Workshop Programme10:00am – 4:00pm
10:00 – 10:30 | Welcome and IntroductionArrive, sign in, and settle into the space. We will begin with a gentle introduction to the day, including an overview of slow stitching and its connection to mindfulness, intention, and enjoying the process rather than aiming for perfection. You will also be introduced to the materials and sources of inspiration you will be using.
10:30 – 11:15 | Natural Dyes – Stories and SamplesDiscover the natural dyes used in the fabrics provided. This session includes stories, folk traditions, cultural symbolism, and the meanings behind different colours. You will have time to explore sample fabrics, inspiration boards, and sketches, and to handle the materials at your own pace.
11:15 – 12:30 | Getting Started – Designing Your PieceWith gentle guidance, you will choose a colour palette and theme for your work. Simple composition ideas and basic slow stitching techniques will be demonstrated before you begin hand-stitching your own piece.
12:30 – 1:15 | Lunch BreakTake time to rest, enjoy a walk by the lakeside, or continue stitching quietly if you wish.
1:15 – 2:30 | Deepening Your PracticeThis session offers one-to-one support and optional demonstrations, including texture stitching, layering, visible mending styles, and creative appliqué. The focus is on mindful making and finding a comfortable creative rhythm.
2:30 – 3:30 | Story Stitches – Reflective MakingA calm, guided stitching session with optional discussion prompts around favourite colours, personal meaning, and stories held within textiles. You will also be encouraged to draw inspiration from the surrounding lakeside landscape.
3:30 – 4:00 | Sharing and Closing CircleAn opportunity to share your work, thoughts, or discoveries if you would like. The day will close with tips for continuing slow stitching at home and a gentle reflection on the workshop.
What’s Included

Naturally dyed fabric pieces

Embroidery threads and needles

A small selection of natural dye samples

Sketch paper, pencils, and inspiration prompts

Hoops

Stitch and story reference sheets

All materials are provided – just bring yourself and a willingness to slow down and stitch mindfully.

Philippa Forrester at Stanwick Lakes
2026-03-24 18:00 - 20:00 (Europe/London) | Stanwick Lakes, NN9 6GY
Join us for a special event with Philippa Forrester, as she reflects on her wildlife experiences and passion for nature. This promises to be an unmissable talk, with live Q&A, ideal for nature-lovers.

We’re delighted to announce that Philippa Forrester will be joining us for a very special event. Philippa brings her expertise as a wildlife presenter and conservationist to Stanwick Lakes for a compelling talk: ‘Why is Stanwick Lakes so important for wetland wildlife.’ Learn about the remarkable species and habitats that call our reserve home, and discover why protecting local wetlands matters globally.
This event takes place on Tuesday 24th March, from 6pm in our event marquee. After the talk, put your questions to Philippa in a live Q&A. There will also be an opportunity to purchase a copy of her latest book, Wild Woman, and have it personally signed.
This promises to be an inspiring talk, ideal for anyone with an interest in wildlife, conservation and rewilding. Early booking is recommended.
Usual parking charges apply.
Photo credit: Tina Price
Philippa’s Bio:
Philippa Forrester is a wildlife broadcaster and conservationist known for presenting programmes including Tomorrow’s World, and more recently BBC natural history programmes including Halcyon River Diaries and The Great British Wildlife Revival. She holds a First Class Honours degree in Ecology and Conservation and is the author of several books on nature and wildlife including On the Trail of Wolves and Wild Woman.
For more information, visit: Live: Philippa Forrester at Stanwick Lakes

Watercolour Art Workshop for Young People (aged 10 - 18)
2026-03-30 13:00 - 15:00 (Europe/London) | Stanwick Lakes, NN9 6GY
Join artist Louise Berrill to create a unique piece of artwork of a beautiful bunny.

Join artist Louise Berrill to create a unique piece of artwork of a beautiful bunny.The workshop will use watercolour techniques to produce a stunning painted masterpiece.
This workshop has been designed especially for children aged 10 and over, teenagers and young adults, and will take place in the Discovery Zone at Stanwick Lakes. Please note, wear clothes you don’t mind getting dirty as you’ll be using paints at this workshop.
(Under 18s who take part in this workshop will need an accompanying adult to be on the site at Stanwick Lakes for the duration of the workshop.)
Usual parking charges apply.

Pond Dipping - 31st March
2026-03-31 10:30 - 12:30 (Europe/London) | Stanwick Lakes, NN9 6GY
Join our rangers for a pond dipping session this Easter!
Using nets, trays and magnifying glasses and guided by one of our rangers, come and discover the creatures that live in the ponds at Stanwick Lakes! After a safety briefing and an introduction to the creatures we’re likely to find, we’ll head to the pond dipping platform where you will be given a pond dipping kit! The Ranger will be on hand with identification keys to help you work out which creatures you have caught as well as to share knowledge about the pond ecosystem and the many species that call it home.
This activity is suitable for children aged 4+.
Sessions last approx. 30 minutes and a responsible adult must be present throughout.
Meet at the Ranger Cabin 5 mins before and your chosen, ticketed start time.
Please check our website on the day of your session for information regarding flooding – wellies may be advisable!
Please take a moment to check the date and time and make sure they work for your plans before booking, as tickets are non-refundable.

Den Building - 2nd April
2026-04-02 10:00 - 12:15 (Europe/London) | Stanwick Lakes, NN9 6GY
Build a den at Stanwick Lakes this Easter!
A Ranger will lead your group to our den building area and introduce you to the tools and materials available, and we’ll discuss the main properties a shelter should have if it were to be needed in a survival situation! You’ll then be set a challenge, in your groups, to build your own waterproof den! One of our Ranger team will be on hand to visit your shelter and hear about your chosen den-building techniques and vision and we might even test out how waterproof your shelters really are!
This activity is suitable for children aged 4+.
Sessions last approx. 60 minutes and a responsible adult must be present throughout.
Meet at the Ranger Cabin 5 mins before and your chosen, ticketed start time.
Please check our website on the day of your session for information regarding flooding – wellies may be advisable!
Please take a moment to check the date and time and make sure they work for your plans before booking, as tickets are non-refundable.

Guide in the Hide
2026-04-03 11:00 - 14:00 (Europe/London) | Stanwick Lakes, NN9 6GY
Come along and join our Guide in the Hide, Lara Jones, SPA Engagement Officer, for chat about our feathered friends, and a helping hand to improve your bird ID skills.
What is an SPA Engagement Officer?
Lara, is a nature conservation officer whose role focuses specifically on the management, protection, and enhancement of a Special Protection Area (SPA). SPAs are internationally important sites designated under the EU Birds Directive to safeguard rare and vulnerable wild birds and their habitats, and we’re proud that Stanwick Lakes is one of them.
For further information, please visit: https://www.wildlifebcn.org/blog/la/what-special-protection-area-northamptonshire

Free event. Usual parking charges apply.

Pond Dipping - 7th April
2026-04-07 10:30 - 12:30 (Europe/London) | Stanwick Lakes, NN9 6GY

Big Easter Craft Club
2026-04-08 10:00 - 14:00 (Europe/London) | Stanwick Lakes, NN9 6GY
Join us for our BIG EASTER CRAFT CLUB
Looking for something creative to do this Easter half-term? Celebrate the season of spring with Easter arts and crafts in our bright and welcoming visitor centre at Stanwick Lakes. Perfect family fun for all ages, whatever the weather! We have two dates to choose from: Wednesday 1st April and Wednesday 8th April. Prebook onto one of our 3 crafting sessions, at which you’ll have the choice to create lots of brilliant Easter themed crafts, including:

Hapazome Nature Printing
Decorate Your Own Easter Egg
Make Your Own Bunny Ears Headband
Origami Rabbits
Create a DIY Flower Nature Book
Make Your Own Pet Chick

Choose your session timings from below:

Morning: 10.00am – 11.45am
Midday: 12.00pm – 1.45pm
Afternoon: 2.00pm – 3.45pm

The same crafts will be running on both days, so please book one date only, unless you have so much fun you would like to come back and make the crafts all over again! Tickets are £10.00 per child, and all children must be accompanied by an adult. Your ticket for this event gains you access to the BIG EASTER CRAFT CLUB in your prebooked session time and allows your child to do as many crafts as they wish in the 1 hour and 45-minute session. (Accompanying adults and children under 2 years old do not need a ticket) Usual parking charges apply.

Den Building - 9th April
2026-04-09 10:00 - 12:15 (Europe/London) | Stanwick Lakes, NN9 6GY

SPA - Meet & Greet
2026-04-10 11:00 - 14:00 (Europe/London) | Stanwick Lakes, NN9 6GY
Put your questions to Lara from The Wildlife Trust!
Visit the SPA (Special Protection Area) stall and learn about why the nature reserve is so important. There will also be a free activities available.
Lara, is a nature conservation officer whose role focuses specifically on the management, protection, and enhancement of a Special Protection Area (SPA). SPAs are internationally important sites designated under the EU Birds Directive to safeguard rare and vulnerable wild birds and their habitats, and we’re proud that Stanwick Lakes is one of them.
For further information, please visit: https://www.wildlifebcn.org/blog/la/what-special-protection-area-northamptonshire

Free event. Usual parking charges apply.

Willow Weaving Course: Obelisk & Bird Feeder
2026-04-18 10:00 - 16:00 (Europe/London) | Stanwick Lakes, NN9 6GY
On this relaxed one-day beginners’ workshop at Stanwick Lakes, you will learn how to weave willow into beautiful and practical garden features using traditional techniques.
During the morning, you will craft a woven obelisk – ideal for supporting climbing plants or adding structure to your garden. In the afternoon, you will create a spiral bird feeder using a jig, suitable for fat balls, nesting materials or even rustic kitchen storage.
Throughout the day, you will explore shaping, tension and simple weaving methods in a welcoming and supportive environment.
The course takes place in the Heritage Craft Barn at Stanwick Lakes, a 750-acre protected Nature Reserve and Wetland of International Importance managed by Rockingham Forest Trust as an environmental charity.
To learn more and book tickets – visit – Willow Weaving: Garden Obelisk & Bird Feeder

Japanese Botanical Stitching Workshop
2026-04-18 10:30 - 13:30 (Europe/London) | Stanwick Lakes, NN9 6GY
This workshop runs in the spring and summer time when there are many flowers and leaves in the garden.
Participants draw any flowers and leaves on the sketchbook in the garden and then transfer their drawing into the handwoven organic cotton tea towel. Participants will stitch their design using the course tutor Emi’s natural dyed threads including blue from indigo, pink from English madder and more.
If the weather is good the course will take place in our Heritage gardens and then participants can work anywhere in the garden.

Spoon Carving Workshop - One Day
2026-04-25 09:30 - 16:00 (Europe/London) | Stanwick Lakes, NN9 6GY
On this therapeutic one-day beginners’ course at Stanwick Lakes you will learn how to carve a spoon using basic wood carving techniques and tools.
You will begin by learning how to cleave wood and use an axe to produce your spoon blank. The rest of the day will be spent using a sloyd knife and a hook knife to carve to shape your individual home-made spoon. The course covers a selection of knife grips, which will keep your carving under control as well as keeping you safe. Time will be spent looking at how the spoon develops in a 3-dimensional form, covering the spoons ‘crook’, bowl and handle to get a well-balanced and functioning spoon.
Wooden spoons like you will make have been carved for thousands of years and for most of the population, were used as an eating utensil until relatively recently. ‘Spoon’ was originally an Anglo-Saxon word that meant ‘a chip of wood’. The oldest known wooden spoon in England is a ladle found at Glastonbury Lake Village dating to 250BC. Another notable find of wooden spoons are the personal spoons found on the wreck of the Mary Rose. These spoons may have been whittled by their owners.
The course takes place in and around the purpose built oak framed craft barn at Stanwick Lakes which is managed by Rockingham Forest Trust as an environmental charity.
Stanwick Lakes is a protected Nature Reserve and a Wetland of International Importance, covering 750 acres of open space with seven miles of paths, a perfect inspiration to crafters and makers.
During your lunchtime you can enjoy the onsite cafés and visit the heritage museum or sit by a lake and watch the wildlife.
To find out more, view dates and get tickets, visit: Spoon Carving | Stanwick Lakes

Glass Fusion - Holey Moley Bowl Workshop
2026-04-25 11:00 - 14:00 (Europe/London) | Stanwick Lakes, NN9 6GY
This three-hour workshop focuses on creating a distinctive “holey” glass bowl. Participants will be taught how to cut glass and gain an understanding of glass fusion techniques, while producing a one-of-a-kind bowl. This workshop is aimed at all levels as the small group size allows Sally to provide as much support as you require to achieve your own unique design.
After the workshop your creations will be transported to Sally’s studio where they will be fired twice in her kiln. They will be ready within a 14 days of the workshop and can be collected from Stanwick Lakes or posted out to you for the cost of the postage.
Suitable for all abilities. Old clothes are recommended. For health and safety reasons please do not wear sandals, flip flops or any other open shoes.

Magic Mammals - FREE EVENT
2026-04-26 11:00 - 15:00 (Europe/London) | Stanwick Lakes, NN9 6GY
Join us at Stanwick Lakes on the 26th April to celebrate National Mammal Week.
Drop in to our Magic Mammal event anytime between 11am and 3pm to discover how we protect mammals at Stanwick Lakes, watch footage of the amazing animals that live on the reserve and pick up tips on how to identify mammals from the clues they leave behind. You can also test your knowledge at our mammal nature table quiz (including skulls!), enjoy mammal themed children’s crafts and make a mammal footprint tunnel to take home to your garden.
You can also find out how to take part in the Mammal Society’s 2026 Mammal Discovery Challenge. This citizen science project aims to encourage and enable people of all ages to help address the lack of data on mammal populations in Britain by monitoring and recording the mammals visiting their gardens.
This event is organised in partnership with the Nene Valley Mammal Youth Group, a new mammal group which provides opportunities for young people to discover mammals, learn about them and take action to protect them.
The Magic Mammals is a FREE event, thanks to funding from the Mammal Society (Usual car parking charges apply).
National Mammal Week takes place from 20th to 26th April and is an annual celebration of Britain’s wild mammals, and the people working to monitor, protect and restore populations of these vital species. To find out more visit: https://mammal.org.uk/national-mammal-week/

Guided Bird Walks on International Dawn Chorus Day
2026-05-03 06:00 - 11:00 (Europe/London) | Stanwick Lakes, NN9 6GY
To celebrate International Dawn Chorus Day on Sunday 3rd May, we will be hosting two guided bird walks at Stanwick Lakes.
“Early birds” are invited to join our first walk to hear the wetland birds as they wake up and start the symphony, while those who prefer a lie-in can come along for a mid-morning stroll to hear which birds have joined the chorus.
Both walks will be led by knowledgeable local ornithologists, who will use their expertise to help you identify the birds by song and by sight. Expect to hear birds that are resident on the wetland, as well as summer migrants such as warblers and maybe even a cuckoo!
The “Early bird” walk will take place between 6am–8am, followed by a hot drink and breakfast bap in the visitor centre from 8am–8.30am.
The “Mid-morning stroll” will start with a hot drink and breakfast bap at 8.30am in the visitor centre, followed by the walk between 9–11am.
Binoculars and bird guides will be available to borrow on the day.
Cancellation Policy
No refunds will be given unless we need to cancel the walks due to bad weather or illness. In this case, we will do our best to arrange another date for the walks to take place.
Suitability Recommendation
These walks are suitable for ages 10 and above.
Special Conditions
The walks will take place in most weather conditions and may leave the main paths, so please wear appropriate clothing and footwear.

Mixed Media Painting Workshop
2026-05-11 10:00 - 2026-12-14 12:30 (Europe/London) | Stanwick Lakes, NN9 6GY
Course Overview
In this session, we will combine layered water-based media with drawing tools to create unique and detailed mixed media paintings. You’ll explore various techniques to layer different materials like watercolors, inks, and acrylics, adding depth and texture to your work. Alongside these, we’ll incorporate drawing tools such as pencils and pens to refine and enhance your composition, bringing out intricate details.
Throughout the session, you’ll learn how to balance and integrate these different elements, resulting in a richly layered piece that reflects your individual style. By the end, you’ll have completed a mixed media painting that showcases the skills and creativity developed during the class.
You’re welcome to dip in and out of these sessions as each is designed to be stand-alone, or you can choose to book them in a series for a more in-depth experience. In each class, you will join a relaxed group where new and returning painters create together in a relaxed, drop-in style session. All levels are welcome, whether you’re a complete beginner or have been painting for years, simply introduce yourself to the tutor and get stuck in. There’s always something new to learn and new people to meet!

Nest Box Monitoring Walk
2026-05-16 10:00 - 12:00 (Europe/London) | Stanwick Lakes, NN9 6GY
Help us to check the nest boxes on the nature reserve at Stanwick Lakes and meet some baby birds!
Every spring, Stanwick Lakes conducts nest box monitoring as part of our contribution to the British Trust for Ornithology’s (BTO) national bird population survey.
Led by experienced nest recorders, trained and licensed by the British Trust for Ornithology (BTO), you are invited to witness these conservation efforts, first hand. Our dedicated (licenced) volunteers monitor nests, count eggs, and tag young birds with metal rings for tracking, providing valuable insights into the species that live in different habitats, the success rates of breeding, and the impact of climate change on bird populations.
This scheme has been running since 2007, and over 3000 eggs have been monitored in that time!
At time of writing, there are over 100 eggs so far this year! These are from a variety of birds such as Blue Tits, Great Tits, Stock Doves and Tawny Owls.
This walk will offer the opportunity to learn about birds on the reserve from knowledgeable ornithologists, and potentially to see some of these birds up close, particularly the beautiful baby tits, if they’re yet to fledge.
So don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to meet the birds at Stanwick Lakes! Join us for the Nest Box Monitoring Walk on 16th May from 10am am to approximately noon.

Linocut Jigsaw Workshop
2026-05-17 10:00 - 13:00 (Europe/London) | Stanwick Lakes, NN9 6GY
A one day workshop where you will create a lino print using the jigsaw method.
The jigsaw method in lino is the act of cutting your lino block into sections which you can ink up with different colours to create colourful prints. You will design, carve and print using the jigsaw method. You can choose from templates provided by the tutor or create from your own idea. The workshop will be inspired by the season, flowers, nature, celebrations. You are welcome to bring your own sketchbook with ideas to develop, otherwise all materials, tools and inspiration will be provided.
You will go home with a beautiful print to frame and enjoy

Monthly Pottery Classes
2026-05-18 10:00 - 2026-08-17 12:30 (Europe/London) | Stanwick Lakes, NN9 6GY
Course Overview
Join our Monthly Pottery Classes with Louise Berrill, a skilled and experienced artist, for a hands-on experience in pottery. These 2.5-hour sessions, held every month, are designed to accommodate all skill levels—from beginners to those with more experience.
Each class offers a unique opportunity to explore various hand-building techniques, including coiling, pinch pots, and slab construction. You’ll work on creating both decorative and functional ceramic pieces while learning the basics of clay preparation, tool usage, and different decoration methods. After completing your pieces, they will be glazed and fired, ready for collection at a later date.
You’re welcome to dip in and out of these sessions as each is designed to be stand-alone, or you can choose to book them in a series for a more in-depth experience. In each class, you will join a relaxed group where new and returning potters create together in a relaxed, drop-in style session. All levels are welcome, whether you’re a complete beginner or have been doing pottery for years, simply introduce yourself to the tutor and get stuck in. There’s always something new to learn and new people to meet!

Monthly Oil Painting class
2026-05-18 10:00 - 2026-12-14 16:30 (Europe/London) | Stanwick Lakes, NN9 6GY
Course Overview
Each 2.5-hour session in this oil painting course offers a unique focus and subject, providing a fresh perspective each time you attend. We’ll delve into essential practical skills and techniques, starting with the preparation of surfaces and moving through the various stages of painting. You’ll gain hands-on experience in applying oil paint, using different tools, and exploring various mediums to achieve a range of effects.
Throughout the sessions, we’ll cover topics such as preparing your canvas, mixing and applying paint, and employing different techniques to enhance your work. Whether you’re a beginner eager to learn the basics or an experienced artist looking to refine your skills and refresh your approach, these sessions will offer valuable insights and practice.
You’re welcome to dip in and out of these sessions as each is designed to be stand-alone, or you can choose to book them in a series for a more in-depth experience. In each class, you will join a relaxed group where new and returning painters create together in a relaxed, drop-in style session. All levels are welcome, whether you’re a complete beginner or have been painting for years, simply introduce yourself to the tutor and get stuck in. There’s always something new to learn and new people to meet!
About the Tutor

Louise is a Northamptonshire artist who’s work is sold in galleries throughout the country, and works on private commissions in the UK and internationally. Formally trained at Loughborough University School of Art and Design, Louise graduated with a BA Hons in Fine Art. Her current work speaks to the beauty of the natural world and perfectly reflects approach here at Stanwick Lakes. With her friendly and enthusiastic approach, she aims to inspire, whether you simply want to try something new or are a budding artist.

Home Education Day KS3 - May 2026
2026-05-21 09:30 - 15:00 (Europe/London) | Stanwick Lakes, NN9 6GY
Come and join us for our first Home Education Day designed for learners aged 11–14 or those accessing the Key Stage 3 curriculum on Thursday 21st May 2026. Timed sessions will include Fieldwork Focus: Water Vole Conservation, Changing Landscapes: A Local History Study, and a Ranger led Charcoal Making experience.
Nature
Fieldwork Focus: Water Vole Conservation
Take part in fieldwork to investigate why water vole populations are declining and how we can help to protect them.
Heritage
Changing Landscapes: A Local History Study
Step back in time on this immersive heritage walk and museum tour to uncover how our changing landscape tells the story of both our local and national history.
Adventure
Charcoal Making
Learn how fire, air, and wood can come together to create one of the oldest artistic materials in the world, charcoal. Learn more about its historical uses and discover how it relates to modern principles of sustainable woodland management.
£15.00 per participating child. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Siblings are welcome, children wishing to participate must purchase a ticket. Parking free of charge if registration is provided at time of booking.

May “Lates” - Evening Workshops
2026-05-22 17:30 - 20:00 (Europe/London) | Stanwick Lakes, NN9 6GY
May “Lates” – Friday 22nd May 2026
With spring in full swing and the evenings stretching out, it’s the perfect time to come and try your hand at some traditional crafts. From weaving and floristry to the heat of the forge, there’s something to get stuck into whatever your interests – whether you’re coming with friends, a partner, or just yourself.
There are three workshops to choose from:
Corn Dollies
– Try this ancient craft and weave your own piece of living history.
Flower Crowns
– Try this timeless skill and craft your own handmade seasonal keepsake.
Blacksmithing Taster
– Try this ancient skill and craft a handmade bottle opener.
Arrival time: 5.30pm,
Includes a glass of prosecco/nosecco on arrival and a tea/filter coffee and a sweet treat to finish!
To book tickets, visit: Lates – Creative Evenings Workshops
