The Big Picture

The Experience

This guided tour offers the Big Picture view of the diverse, seasonal activities here at Wild Ken Hill, experiencing the different ways we work with Nature.

First, we’ll explore the ground beneath our feet, learning how to grow food sustainably with the soil’s best interest in mind. You might take a spade to examine soil structure, revisit hedgerows, or see the startling impact of cover crops such as clover.

Moving through the rewilding area you’ll understand the marvellous work done by the wandering grazing species – Exmoor ponies, Tamworth pigs and Red Poll cattle. In line with the seasons your guide will highlight any vivid wildlife on view, be it browsing deer, colourful plants, or peeping songbirds, each benefiting from the return of land to nature. Whilst our nocturnal beavers will most likely be at rest, you’ll see evidence of their inexhaustible efforts to benefit our wetlands.

Down towards the sweeping vista of the sea, we’ll discover the importance of The Wash and its Marsh for the wading birds of the Norfolk coast. According to the time of year, you might see any number of Curlew, Lapwing, Avocet, and learn how these breeding birds gain from the incredible surroundings.

In the woodland, we’ll look at the astonishing variety of habitats it provides, for flowers and fungi, butterflies and bats, as well as the significance of deadwood and glades. On the Ken Hill Plain, abundant with purple heather, you’ll learn about the vast abundance of the species who call it home.

Photos

Timing

AM/PM: The Big Picture takes place in the morning or afternoon

Start Time: 09:30 or 13:30 (please arrive at least 15 minutes before the start time)

Duration: Around 2 and a half hours

Other Details

1. Tour typically on foot. Possible vehicle use in bad weather.
2. Moderate walking pace with frequent stops. Moderate fitness is best to cope with walking on uneven ground. There are a small number of hilly slopes with gradients no steeper than 20%.
3. Walking distance: 2-4 km
4. Tour will go ahead in almost all weathers, so please dress accordingly. Trousers, sleeve-length tops and robust shoes are required in all weathers, as the ground is uneven and the long grass can be wet or scratchy. In wet or cold weather, a warm waterproof coat and wellington boots are required.
5. Suitable for Children 12 and over. For little legs and impatient enthusiasts please see The Big Picture on Wheels
6. Covid-19 secure