Spring Woodland Festival

Every spring, Dartmoor is witness to an epic race covering thousands of miles, from the forests of West Africa to the oak woods of Dartmoor. Birds like the Pied Flycatcher and Wood Warbler fly all this way to reach our wonderful oak woodlands in time to feast on the emerging spring insects.

One of the best places to see them is Yarner Wood, part of the East Dartmoor National Nature Reserve.

These champion flyers will be the stars of the annual Spring Woodland Festival. Armed with banners and flags there will be a parade into the woods to celebrate the return the Flycatchers.

Then throughout the rest of the day there’ll be a chance to meet the birds and wildlife experts who will help you find out more about them and the other amazing wildlife that make its home there. There’ll be wildlife crafts, guided walks, games and activities for everyone. And if you just want to sit back and enjoy the woods, why not listen to a tall tale from a storyteller, chill to some acoustic music or enjoy refreshments provided by the local scouts.

The parade starts at 11am on Sunday, May 19th. Meet at the Special Event Parking, follow the Haytor road and turn in towards Yarner House and follow the signs.

Please note the route of the parade is along a broad steep path down into the woods and will take about 30 minutes.

Activities will run throughout the day, 11.30am until 4.30pm, so there’ll be lots to do even if you can’t make the parade!

This event is being organised as part of Moor Than Meets The Eye and funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

For more information contact andy@moorthanmeetstheeye.org