'Birdwatching at The Casterbridge, Dorchester, Dorset', 'description'=>'Our Georgian residence and concealed courtyard annex combine to provide a peaceful haven behind the bustling street scene of this pleasant and historic county town.' ); $PageClassName = $Config[ 'PageClassName' ]; $PageClass = new $PageClassName; $PageDetails[ 'copy' ] = <<Birds on the Dorchester Loop

We are on a major migration route, close to several internationally recognised bird reserves and some famous vantage points. the Casterbridge is an excellent base for a Dorset birdwatching break:

Holiday Reports

September 2009
Even in unfavourable conditions there are plenty of birds to be seen, as in this autumn report.
April 2010
A report from an 8 day birdwatching holiday.

The best indication of the quality of the local birdlife is a regular report of the specimens seen on a fixed route. Here are Simon Simpson's records from 'The Dorchester Loop', a two mile circuit of the nearby countryside.

Monthly reports from the Dorchester Loop

Jan 2009 Feb 2009 Mar 2009 Apr 2009 May 2009 Jun 2009 Jul 2009 Aug 2009 Sep 2009 Oct 2009 Nov 2009 Dec 2009
Jan 2010 Feb 2010 Mar 2010 Apr 2010 May 2010 Jun 2010 Jul 2010 Aug 2010 Sep 2010 Oct 2010 Nov 2010 Dec 2010

For a quick guide to the birds you are most likely to encounter during your stay, or to plan a visit to seek a favourite bird; see our month-by-month summary.

Most of these regular reports are contributed by Simon, our birdwatching specialist. From time to time guests follow the route and submit additional reports.

Simon is sometimes able, by prior arrangement, to guide birdwatchers around local venues. e-mail reception for more details.

Please give us 24 hours notice if you would like us to prepare a packed lunch for you.

Walking the Loop

Natural History Page | Itineraries Page

EOT; // Build the page text if( !empty( $PageClass ) ) $Text = $PageClass->BuildPageText( $PageDetails ); echo $Text;