Days out in nature this season

National Lottery Open Week 2026

Various RSPB nature reserves

From Saturday 7 to Sunday 15 March 2026, we’re offering National Lottery players the chance to experience nature on RSPB nature reserves. Since 1994, the RSPB has received vital support from the National Lottery which raises £32 million for Good Causes every week. This has enabled us to do more to protect nature, save wildlife and connect people to the natural world across the UK. Thanks to National Lottery players, some of our most ambitious projects have been possible.

To show our appreciation, we’d like to offer National Lottery players the chance to enjoy some of the wild hidden gems found on our nature reserves. Across the UK, 22 RSPB nature reserves are offering a range of free activities for visitors who present a valid National Lottery ticket or scratchcard. From wetland wonders and woodland walks to cosy cafés and seabird cities, they’re a great place for family flocks and solo flyers to switch off and connect with nature.

Participating nature reserves

England

East of England

• Strumpshaw Fen
• The Lodge
• Minsmere
• Rye Meads

Northeast

• Saltholme

Northwest

• Wild Haweswater
• Leighton Moss
• Burton Mere Wetlands

Yorkshire and the Humber

• Bempton Cliffs
• Fairburn Ings
• St Aidan’s

Southeast

• Pagham Harbour/Medmerry
• Pulborough Brooks

Southwest

• Ham Wall

Scotland

• Lochwinnoch
• Loch Lomond
• Loch Leven

Wales

• Conwy
• Ynys Lawd/South Stack
• Ynys-hir
• Newport Wetlands

Northern Ireland

• Belfast’s Window on Wildlife

Check National Lottery Open Week: #BecauseofYou for updates and further information.

Heronry experience

RSPB Fairburn Ings

Grey Herons build their nests high up in trees. Photo: Ben Andrew (rspb-images.com)

Nothing quite compares to the bizarre sight of Grey Herons nesting in the trees, their huge dinosaur-like forms perched in large, messy nests. Witness elegant Grey Herons, as well as Cormorants, in their natural sanctuary with a special guided experience at RSPB Fairburn Ings. Discover more about their habits and observe their graceful flight at this West Yorkshire nature reserve, which is now home to some of the UK’s most elusive birds, including Bitterns, Bearded Tits, Cetti’s Warblers and Spoonbills. Multiple dates are available in February, and the event runs from 10.30am–12pm, £17 (£21 for non-members). Book now