Events

Help track the UK’s declining House Martin population by taking part in this citizen science survey. Participants are asked to record nesting sites and breeding activity during the 2026 season, contributing valuable data to support conservation work and better understand population changes.

No prior experience is needed, and observations can be submitted from anywhere in Sussex and beyond.

Find out more and how to take part here.

The Stag Beetle Count is a citizen science survey that helps track populations of one of Britain’s most iconic insects. By recording sightings of stag beetles, participants contribute valuable data that helps conservationists understand where the species is found and how its numbers are changing.

Taking part is simple. Spend around 30 minutes on a warm evening watching for stag beetles in your garden or along a short walking route, then submit your observations online. Even a single sighting can help improve our understanding of this remarkable species.

Find out more and take part:
https://stagbeetles.ptes.org/stag-beetle-count/

Take part in the Willow Emerald Watch citizen science project by helping to monitor the spread of the Willow Emerald Damselfly across the UK. Learn how to identify this distinctive species and recognise the signs of breeding, including characteristic egg-laying scars on waterside trees. Participants are encouraged to record and submit sightings, contributing valuable data that supports research into the species’ distribution, population growth and conservation, while helping scientists better understand its continued expansion into new areas.

Find out more and how to get involved here.

The Big Butterfly Count is a nationwide citizen science survey aimed at helping us assess the health of our environment. It was launched in 2010 and has rapidly become the world’s biggest survey of butterflies.

The Big Butterfly Count 2026 reopens on the 1st of July ready for the main event between the 17th of July and 9th of August.

Simply count butterflies for 15 minutes during bright (preferably sunny) weather during the Big Butterfly Count. We have chosen this time of year because most butterflies are at the adult stage of their lifecycle, so more likely to be seen. Records are welcome from anywhere: from parks, school grounds and gardens, to fields and forests.

For more information and how to participate, click here.

National Whale and Dolphin Watch is a 9-day citizen science event dedicated to studying and protecting cetaceans in UK waters.

Preliminary Dates: Saturday 25th July to Sunday 2nd August 2026

Watches and surveys will be taking place across the country to create a ‘snapshot’ view of what can be seen in our UK coastal waters. The data collected during this event will enable us to develop an idea of the distribution of whales, dolphins and porpoises around the UK. This event is a great opportunity for everyone to become involved in the research which goes into understanding and protecting these magnificent creatures.

For more information and how to get involved, click here.

Learn simple ways to connect, relax and engage in the natural world. Weather you are a parent, caregiver or are someone looking to unwind and boost wellbeing, spend time in the gardens exploring and making new connections, with breathing and reflection exercises all designed to help people connect with nature with wellbeing at it’s core.

We particularly welcome individuals who may be experiencing mental health challenges, are from under-served communities or have limited experience of engaging with nature.

Sunday 26th July
Saturday 15th August
Sunday 20th September
10:30am – 1pm & 2pm – 4:30pm

Free transport to and from Haywards Heath station. Free entry and parking. For more information or to book, email us at wakehurstcommunity@kew.org

Join the Youth Action team and RSPB staff for a practical conservation volunteering day helping to remove invasive Himalayan balsam from the reserve. Participants will learn why this non-native plant threatens local biodiversity and take part in pulling it up by hand to allow native plants to thrive. This is a great opportunity to contribute to habitat restoration, support wildlife conservation, and work alongside like-minded people in an outdoor environment. Suitable for anyone with an interest in nature, with transport and lunch expenses reimbursed where appropriate.

Find out more and book your place here.

Take part in a guided, hands-on craft workshop to create your own toad abode, designed to provide a cool, sheltered habitat for toads and frogs in your garden. Led by Kirsty from Make, Do and Trend, the session includes all materials and step-by-step instructions, with plenty of opportunity to get creative while learning how simple garden features can help support local amphibians. Suitable for adults and children aged five and over, with children accompanied by an adult.

Find out more and see which sessions are available here.

Have you ever wondered what’s in the soil under your feet? We’ll be taking a look at what soil health means and how to test soil to see how healthy it actually is.

Find out more and book your place here.

Join Friends of Shoreham Beach Local Nature Reserve for a fun, family friendly morning exploring the wildlife of Shoreham Beach. Search the strandline for fascinating natural treasures, bring your discoveries for experts to identify, and get up close to the small marine creatures living along the shoreline in interactive wildlife tanks. Learn about the unique plants, animals and coastal habitats that make Shoreham Beach such a special place for wildlife.

Entry is free for Friends of Shoreham Beach Local Nature Reserve members and their families, or £2 per person for non members, with the option to become a member on the day. Refreshments are available nearby, or you are welcome to bring a picnic. Please check the organiser’s website or social media before travelling in case of poor weather.

A five-week journey that brings people together to explore the power of sound, nature, and Wakehurst’s unique landscapes.

Each weekly two-hour session includes a gentle walk, creative music-making, and moments of mindfulness, while also offering opportunities to learn about our horticulture, seasonal changes, and the science behind the wild places we care for. No musical experience is needed – everyone’s welcome to take part.

These sessions are designed especially for Community Access Scheme members, community groups, and individuals seeking to boost their wellbeing and connect with nature.

For more information and how to register click here Wakehurst Nature Notes Poster 2026.

Have you heard of Citizen Science? Would you like to know what it means and why it’s important for the natural world? Why not join us to find out what citizen scientists do and how it’s helping us to understand the world around us.

Find out more and book your place here.