© Photo by Rich Bunce

Broughton Sanctuary is a haven of beauty and transformation nestled in the heart of our community. Here, nature is not just observed; it is invited to thrive and flourish, and we extend an open invitation for you to join us on this incredible journey.

View all our upcoming FREE events here: broughtonsanctuary.co.uk/explore/broughton-sanctuary-community-events

Four years into our ambitious Nature Recovery Programme Broughton Sanctuary is fast becoming one of the most important centres for nature in northern England. Our Nature Recovery Project is working towards transforming 1030 hectares of high intensity sheep pasture into a mosaic of different habitats that not only produce healthy nutritious food but also deliver other essential ecosystem services such as natural flood management, carbon sequestration, biodiversity gain, healthier soils, cleaner air and water, as well as health and wellbeing opportunities for people.

In our commitment to fostering a sense of togetherness and appreciation for the natural world we are delighted to announce a series of complimentary community events throughout the year that invite you to join us on this incredible journey. These workshops are designed to inspire, refresh, and ignite your curiosity, providing an opportunity for everyone in our local community to come together.

Regardless of age, background, or experience, all are welcome to participate in a diverse range of activities. Immerse yourself in the art of willow weaving, capture the wonders of our surroundings through wildlife photography, dance with the rhythm of nature, or embark on a journey of self-discovery through nature journaling. If you prefer a more contemplative experience, join us on a guided walks led by experienced naturalists, and uncover the secrets of how and where nature is flourishing right on your doorstep.

We are immensely grateful to White Rose Forest for their generous funding, allowing us to bring these events to life. Their support enables us to create a space where our community can connect, learn, and celebrate the beauty of Broughton Sanctuary.

We invite you to be a part of this enriching experience as we weave the threads of community, nature, and inspiration together. We look forward to welcoming you to Broughton Sanctuary, where each event is a step towards building a harmonious relationship with the natural world around us.

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Nature Photography Workshop with Rich Bunce

Saturday 2^nd March, 2.00 – 4.30pm

Seize this chance to capture the scenic wonders of Broughton Sanctuary as you embark on a captivating journey with acclaimed professional photographer Rich Bunce. 

This workshop is part of our programme of free community events supported by grant funding from White Rose Forest. Tickets are complimentary but with only 20 spaces available you will need to book now to secure your place.

Reconnect with the natural world, reimagine your surroundings, and relish the rejuvenating scenes at Broughton Sanctuary. Join Rich Bunce, the Walking Photographer, on a leisurely and creative stroll, immersing yourself in the serene and ever-evolving landscapes of the Sanctuary, where nature is returning in abundance as the land grows wilder.

Whether you’re wielding a camera phone or the latest cutting-edge equipment, whether you’re a novice or an expert, all are invited to partake in a photographic exploration at the pace of a seasoned photographer. Rich will share his wealth of knowledge and extensive experience, offering practical tips for the entire group and personalised guidance for individuals along the way.

Seize this extraordinary opportunity to explore, absorb, and learn in the distinctive setting of Broughton Sanctuary.

Click here to book your free place on the Nature Photography Workshop

About Rich Bunce:

With over 15 years of commercial photography experience, Rich Bunce is a seasoned professional. His recent endeavors include conservation assignments, contributing to projects such as the Natural History GCSE.

Fueling his passion since the age of 6, Rich earned a BA (hons) in Photography and has been recognised with prestigious awards, including a category win in the British Wildlife Photography Awards.

Dedicated to education and sharing the joy of outdoor photography, Rich has been leading workshops since his graduation. In 2013, he founded Walking Photography, offering Photo Walks and Photography workshops inspired by nature.

Full details of how and where to meet will be sent via email beforehand. In the meantime, to see more of Rich’s work visit walkingphotographer.co.uk

Please note that this event involves approximately 2 – 3 miles of walking on rough ground. It is open to adults aged 16+ 

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Willow Wonders: Creative Weaving at Broughton Sanctuary with Joe Gregory Wednesday, 27 March 2024

Join us for a morning or afternoon filled with creativity and nature at Broughton Sanctuary. We are thrilled to host renowned willow basketry and sculpture teacher, Joe Gregory, for two exciting workshops during the Easter holidays.

Willow Weaving Workshop for Adults (16+) Time: 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM

Unleash your creativity in this engaging and relaxed workshop designed for adults. Under the guidance of Joe Gregory, you will learn the ancient art of willow weaving, focusing on the cornucopia weave with its rich folk history. The highlight of the session is creating your very own willow birdseed feeder, which also doubles as a charming garlic holder for the kitchen. Discover the versatility of willow weaving and leave with a beautiful handmade creation.

Click here to book this session

Willow Weaving Workshop for Families Time: 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM

Bring the whole family for an afternoon of fun and creativity! Suitable for children aged 5 and up, accompanied by an adult, this family-friendly workshop is a perfect way to bond and learn together. Joe Gregory will guide you through the weaving techniques, focusing on the cornucopia weave. Create a delightful willow birdseed feeder that not only enhances hand-eye coordination but also introduces simple math and pattern recognition in a playful manner. The sweet little basket you make can be used for birdseed or various other purposes around the house or garden.

Click here to book this session

About Joe Gregory

With over 10 years of experience in teaching willow basketry and sculpture, Joe Gregory is a seasoned expert based in Todmorden, West Yorkshire. Her expertise extends nationally and internationally, making her a sought-after teacher in the field. Explore more about Joe’s work and courses on her website, Creative with Nature.

Join this unique opportunity to connect with nature, unleash your creativity, and learn from a master craftsman. Secure your spot for a day of willow weaving magic at Broughton Sanctuary.

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A Nature Encounter at Broughton with Mark Cocker

Saturday 6th July – time TBC

Our historic estate, thriving with newfound biodiversity, celebrates the discovery of its 1000th species of flora and fauna, a testament to our ambitious restoration efforts.

Immerse yourself in the enchanting ambiance of Broughton during midsummer, where a multitude of wild communities thrives. Mark Cocker, hailed as ‘one of our greatest living naturalists,’ will guide participants through an exploration of the intricate interconnections sustaining life – from the symbiotic relationships between fungi and trees to the vibrant ecosystems of plants, insects, birds, and entire landscapes. Central to the experience is recognising how intimately connected humans are to the living world.

The event begins with a fascinating examination of a moth trap set the night before, unveiling the mesmerizing diversity of nocturnal creatures that surround us but often go unnoticed. This unique opportunity to witness the wonders of the natural world is open to all, free of charge, and operates on a first-come, first-served basis.

Join us to embark on a memorable nature encounter into the heart of Broughton’s flourishing biodiversity.

About Mark Cocker

A renowned naturalist, author, and environmental activist, Mark Cocker is a leading figure in the realm of natural history. With a distinguished career, Mark has garnered acclaim for his profound contributions to wildlife conservation and environmental awareness.

Mark’s literary prowess is evident in his award-winning books and insightful essays that delve into the intricate relationships between humanity and the natural world. Beyond his roles as a prolific writer, he has demonstrated a deep commitment to advocacy through broadcasting, lecturing, and contributing to various publications. A passionate birdwatcher and skilled wildlife photographer, Mark Cocker’s biography is a testament to his tireless efforts in unravelling the wonders of nature and inspiring a profound connection between people and the environment.

Visit his website for more information https://markcocker.com/

Keep checking back as more events are added throughout the year.