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Welcome to 'Focus on Birds' in 2008. As well as information about our weekends and
short breaks in Norfolk, you'll find details here on the the one or two holidays further afield which
we arrange each year.
However as by far the greater number of fixtures mentioned are "home rather than away",
perhaps a few words about our Norfolk base would be in order.
Wells-next-the-Sea, perfectly situated to see all north Norfolk has to offer, was
once a major trading port and Ilex House is thought to have been
built in the late 18th century for a retired sea captain. Since 1986, Ilex House has been the home of
my wife, Nada, and me.
We have always worked hard to dispel the myth that birdwatching is a hardy activity
intended only for those prepared to rough it. Perish the thought; our aim has always been to combine
the comforts and friendliness of a country house party with some of the richest birdlife in Britain
and we assure our guests a most memorable and enjoyable stay.
The large walled garden of Ilex House boasts a bird list in excess of 175 species,
and during the Spring and Autumn migration almost anything can turn up as previous guests can testify to.
Each day begins with a full English breakfast (unless you prefer just toast and coffee)
then we're off in the minibus in pursuit of the birds and generous helpings
of natural history. We shall visit internationally famous sites such as Cley and Titchwell Marshes,
where at certain times of the year we can often see in excess of 100 species in a single day.
Woodland birds, seawatching and specialised heathland birds such as Stone Curlew and Woodlark
are all on the agenda depending on the time of year. After a full day in the field we return home in
time for drinks often on the lawn in summer or round an open fire (not on the lawn) on colder
evenings, before indulging in a wonderful home cooked dinner. We can then relax, perhaps with an
after-dinner drink and discuss the events of the day.
The minimum group size on any of our Norfolk breaks is three and the maximum is eight.
Whilst this is not exactly one-to-one tuition, it does allow everyone to ask questions and to hear
the answers, so the atmosphere is one of friends sharing a common interest and very comfortable.
Whether you are new to birdwatching or an old hand there will be something for everybody.
As for the birds, Norfolk is famous for them - and not always the same ones. We've
included a page giving more information on how our avian population changes with the seasons.
Wherever and whenever you decide to join us, Nada and I look forward to welcoming you to ...
'Focus on Birds'.
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Tom McJannet
Focus on Birds |
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