Autumn Watch in Dorset

Wednesday 29th October - Sunday 2nd November 2025

Space is available on this event!

Wildlife ranger Mark Warn and canine friends

What does autumn mean for the flora and fauna of Dorset? From the insects to the deer, the wild birds to the farm animals? From the trees shedding leaves to the fungi springing up like magic?

With two days going further afield and one concentrating on our immediate Othona environment, this is a fantastic holiday for active nature lovers. Come along and experience the season with the guidance of friendly hands-on experts.

Mark Warn is a wildlife ranger and landscape recovery manager with Forestry England. He will introduce us to the distinctive heathland of mid Dorset where he restores habitat, manages deer and sometimes has to fight fires caused by abandoned barbecues! His beat includes heathland right next door to Arne, well known from BBC Springwatch.

Maurits Fontein and Mart Tebbs are Othona's current and former groundsmen. They know our biodiverse acres better than anyone. Both are keen naturalists and Maurits' experience includes his days with Dorset Wildlife Trust.

Ellen, Adam, Leila, Rosie and sheepdog Meg, all at Tamarisk Farm

The team at Tamarisk Farm live out their organic principles with their arable crops, animals and market garden. You can see them here on BBC Countryfile, around the farm and on horseback moving their cattle along the beach just below Othona.

Our outings will suit adults who are fit for some country walking as well as older children or teenagers with a real interest in nature. (This event is not suitable for children who mainly need to be entertained.)

Fee Types

You are genuinely welcome to choose whichever rate suits you

(Learn more about our Pricing Policy & Bursaries)

Special offer: Where two adults share a room the second pays half price.
 

Arrival + Departure Times

(Learn about Arrival+Departure)

(Learn about Arrival+Departure)