Salisbury Moth Morning with Breakfast

Join us in the beautiful Secret Garden at Bourne Hill, Salisbury (SP1 3UZ) for a fascinating morning discovering the hidden world of moths.

We’ll begin with a short introductory talk exploring the lives of these often overlooked and extraordinary insects, before gathering around a moth trap to see which species have flown in overnight. You may be surprised by the incredible diversity, colours and patterns we find.

Moths are known for their wonderfully curious names, including the Setaceous Hebrew Character, Elephant Hawk-moth and Maiden’s Blush. Others are masters of disguise or simply stunning to look at, such as the Buff-tip, perfectly camouflaged as a birch twig, the striking Poplar Hawk-moth and the beautiful Jersey Tiger.

Alongside the moth-watching, enjoy a relaxed breakfast of hot drinks, orange juice, pastries and home-baked muffins while soaking up the peaceful atmosphere of the garden on a summer morning.

“I enjoyed that so much and will look at moths differently now! And breakfast - wow!”

“Thank you so much. Wonderful informative morning, tasty breakfast, super setting, so welcoming and friendly.”

Who is it for?

This event is suitable for anyone interested in wildlife and wellbeing who wants to spend time in nature with others, learning new things. We value diversity, and hope to create a community that reflects the breadth of people in our society. Please share any medical, mobility, dietary or other needs on booking, so we can plan activities (and snacks!) that are suitable for all. 

Where?

Secret Garden, Bourne Hill, Salisbury SP1 3UZ - see this Google Maps pin. The garden is fairly level, with a mix of hard surfaces and grass.

Tables and chairs will be available - you are also welcome to bring your own picnic blanket. See The Secret Garden website for more info.

Access The Secret Garden from College Street/Wyndham Open Space or Salisbury Arts Centre grounds. Next to Wiltshire Council and Police offices.

What we provide

• Tea, coffee, hot chocolate, herbal tea, orange juice, pastries and home-baked muffins.

What to bring

• Dress for the weather. We will be outside for the duration of the session. Please check the weather forecast and bring waterproofs and warm layers. 
• Guide dogs are welcome but no other dogs please.
• Feel free to bring sense-safe food if you wish.

Cost 

Adult Standard Ticket: £15.50
Adult Supporter Ticket: £18 

Child Standard Ticket: £10.50
Child Supporter Ticket: £12 

Or by donation - pay what you feel.

FAQs

Why are there different ticket price options?

We want everyone to be able to attend our events. Those who are willing and able to pay a little bit more and book a Supporter ticket help to subsidise a place for someone who can’t afford to pay the Standard ticket price. Choosing the Supporter ticket allows us to offer Donation tickets. This kind of system is sometimes called 'pay it forward', and choosing to book a Supporter ticket is an act of kindness and generosity.

Do we go ahead in the rain?

We believe in getting out whatever the weather! Please assume the session is going ahead unless you hear otherwise by email the day before. We may postpone if the weather forecast is really wet/stormy, but will go ahead in most weathers e.g. light rain, showers. Always check the weather forecast and dress for the weather.

What if I'm late?

Please aim to arrive ready at the event start time. We'll be based here for the duration of the event.

Does moth trapping harm moths?

The session is carried out with high animal welfare standards. Don't be fooled - most will be very still but are alive! The moths are released back into their natural habitat after species identification and the education session (best to do this early morning, before it gets too hot). The data we collect is being used to conserve threatened moths, increase scientific understanding of moth declines and improve public awareness. See Butterfly Conservation National Moth Recording Scheme.

Anything else?

Please let us know if you have any questions or concerns. We can chat and suggest solutions to help you attend, on a 1:1 basis. Contact Charley on 07519 464023 or charley@waw.org.uk

This event is supported by funding from the National Lottery Community Fund.