Countryside Rangers Upcoming Events 2024
We are now using Eventbrite for some of our event bookings – check out our listings and follow us here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/high-life-highland-countryside-rangers-33097164665
All other bookings can be found on the High Life Highland booking site: https://booking.highlifehighland.com/
HLH Membership options can be found here: Join High Life Highland – High Life Highland
Explore the heart of the Scottish Highlands, with the eleven naturalists from the High Life Highland Ranger service. Our articles bring you news stories about wildlife and history; our events and conservation efforts.
Nature Unveiled | High Life Highland Ranger | Substack
Date: Thursday 14th November
Area: Wester Ross
Ullapool Nature Club for Kids, Owls and their Pellets, Ullapool Library
Nature Club is a gathering in our community library to celebrate and experience nature. It is open to all children but aimed at primary school age.
This month, our session is part of Wester Ross Dark Skies Festival and we will be playing games and looking and learning about owls and what our local owls have been eating by dissecting their pellets.
Children 5 and over can stay without parents and younger children can attend with parents or carers.
Booking is not required, just turn up. Suggested donation is £2.50 per child. Please only donate what you can afford, £2.50 is a guide only. Parents are welcome to stay and participate.
Time: 6pm – 7.15pm
Booking: not required
Contact: [email protected] M: 07917307499
Date: Thursday 14th November
Area: Inverness
The Magic & Mystery of Clava Cairns
Join John the Ranger and Astro Archaeologist Dougie Scott for a journey through the ancient stones of Clava Cairns. Discover the secrets and stories hidden within these mystical ruins as we explore the history and folklore of this sacred site. If we have time we may walk down to another Cairn & Chapel site nearby (1Km away).
Get ready to be amazed by the magic that surrounds Clava Cairns and delve into the mystery of its origins. This in-person event will take place on Thu Nov 14 2024 at 10:00 AM GMT at Clava Cairns. Meet at the car park. Adults only £7.50 each.
Come and experience the wonder of Clava Cairns for yourself. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to connect with the ancient and mystical energy of this incredible site.
Time: 10 am – 12pm
Booking: Click here to book
Contact: [email protected] 07771370959
Date: Friday 15th November
Area: Wester Ross
The Full Moon and the Fire: Wester Ross Dark Skies Festival, location TBC
We are hoping for a clear night lit up by the full moon to enjoy a hot drink around the fire as we tell stories from real life, mystery objects and books. Suitable for families and adults too. This is part of Wester Ross Dark Skies Festival organised by the Wester Ross Biosphere.
Time: 5pm – 6.30pm
Booking: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/high-life-highland-countryside-rangers-33097164665
Contact: [email protected] M: 07917307499
Date: Friday 15th November
Area: Easter Ross
Volunteer Day – Gorse Clearance at Tarbat Ness
Keep yourself fit outdoors and help protect a site of special scientific interest. We will be cutting and removing gorse from the maritime heath on the headland at Tarbat Ness. Equipment and refreshments will be provided.
Time: 2pm – 5pm
Booking: No booking required
Contact: marcia.o’[email protected] 07788387634
Date: Wednesday 20th November
Area: Inverness
Half Day Hill Walk – Carn na h-Easgainn by Inverness
Come join us for an exciting half-day hill walk at Càrn na h-Easgainn near Moy. Follow a landrover track up through birchwoods and then over the moors on this straightforward climb up to a rounded summit. Càrn na h-Easgainn offers extensive views for the modest effort required. We’ll be back by noon giving you the time to fill as you please for the rest of the day!
Ranger John will be there to point out some local history, landscape and wildlife. Adults only (18+). 4 Miles/6.25km – gentle slopes.
Follow this link to the Walk Highland Website and click on the start button to get Start and place to park for this walk.
Càrn na h-Easgainn, near Moy (Walkhighlands)
Time: 9am – 12pm
Cost: £7.50
Booking: Click here to book
Contact: [email protected] 07771370959
Date: Thursday 21st November
Area: Online
‘From the Green Room to the Whisky Barrel’ – Online Talk
The first of the High Life Highland winter talk series kicks off with a fascinating subject. We are privileged to have our guest speaker Dr Lonneke Goddijn-Murphy who will give a presentation entitled “From the Green Room to the Whisky Barrel’. Thursday 21st November at 7.30pm.
During this fascinating digital presentation, Dr Lonneke Goddijn-Murphy will explain why we see the colours we see and what these colours can tell us about the sea. The colours of the sea: what do you see? Is the sea blue? If you look closely, you can see many different shades and colours. The colours of the sea have been used by ancient mariners to navigate, inspiring numerous seascape artists, studied by scientists and observed from satellites in space.
Time: 7.30pm – 9pm
We ask for donations to help with our work, which goes towards education about and protection of the nature of the Highlands. Please donate what you can afford.
Booking: Click here to book
Contact: [email protected]
Date: Friday 22nd November
Area: Sutherland
Guided walk at Kylestrome estate by the Kylesku bridge
A circular 5k walk on estate tracks through woodland, right by the coast, and up the hill, with a possibility of seeing red deer, seals, otters or eagles, with superb views.
Time: 10.30am – 1pm
Booking Click here to book
Contact: [email protected]
Date: Tuesday 26th November
Area: Wester Ross
Ullapool Nature Tots for Pre-schoolers – Nocturnal Animals, Ullapool Library
Nature Tots is aimed at children under 5 and their carers. It includes nature stories and activities. This month our topic is all about hedgehogs and hibernation. This is (hopefully) part inside and part outside so please come prepared for going out.
Part of Wester Ross Dark Skies Festival running through November.
Booking is not required, just turn up. This event’s price has been set to FREE. We ask for donations to help with our work, which goes towards education about and protection of the nature of the Highlands. Please only donate what you can afford. Suggested donation is £2.50. Donations can be made in cash or using a QR code at the event.
Time: 10.30am – 11.30am
Booking: Not required
Contact: [email protected] M: 07917307499
Date: Wednesday 27th November
Area: Inverness
Winter Tree ID & Tall Tree Tales – Ness Islands
Come and join us for a fun and informative morning at Ness Islands in Inverness! Learn all about the different trees that call this beautiful place home on this 2km walk. John, The local Countryside Ranger, will help you identify various winter trees and share fascinating stories about the tall trees that have stood here for years. It’s a great opportunity to connect with nature and discover the hidden wonders of the forest.
£5 per person. Adults only. Meet at The Bught Road entrance to Ness Islands (Opposite the mini golf).
Time: 10.30am – 12pm
Contact: [email protected] 07771370959
Date: Thursday 28th November
Area: Sutherland
Borg To Dyke Loop Walk
Join the countryside ranger on a guided walk (8.6km), following the route of the Dyke river in Strath Halladale, north Sutherland. Enjoy open countryside and maybe a glimpse or sound of the deer, as we head towards Dyke forest. Some rough ground to cover so suitable walking gear and a reasonable level of fitness is required. No dogs. Over 18 years only. There is no charge but a kind donation on the day is very welcome. Booking is essential.
Time: 10.30am – 3pm Booking ref: ACT002274
We make no charge for this event but we rely on your donations to help us protect our Highland wildlife and heritage.
Booking: High Life Highland Activities
Contact: [email protected]
Date: Thursday 28th November
Area: Easter Ross
North Coast Splashes – Online Talk
Did you know that there are 20 species of whales and dolphins recorded in Uk waters?
Our second winter talk this year will be about our magnificent marine mammals and their unique adaptations to surviving in a watery environment. We’ll also look at the new problems they face with our increasing technological advances and how you can go out and spot them for yourself around the North Coast of Scotland.
This talk will be on Microsoft Teams
Time: 7pm – 8pm
Booking: Click HERE to book
Contact: marcia.o’[email protected] 07788387634
Date: Friday 29th November
Area: Caithness
Woodland walk – Latheronwheel
A guided walk up the Latheronwheel Strath with a tree themed twist. We will stretch our legs whilst appreciating all things arboreal in celebration of National Tree Week. Who said Caithness has no trees? Starting at the harbour, up the Strath and as far as the Smerral Woods (if ground conditions allow on the day). Looping back to the coast to view the blow hole above the harbour, not tree related but too good to miss. Walk is 6 km, some steep and muddy sections with several fences to cross. Walking boots and wet weather gear essential. Bring your lunch. No dogs. Over 18’s only.
Time: 10.30am – 2.00pm Booking ref: ACT002378
Join us at our free event! While there is no charge to attend, your donations make all the difference: £5 supports the event directly, and £10 enhances our conservation and nature education work. We are committed to inclusivity and removing barriers, so please give what you can afford. Every contribution helps us make a meaningful impact!
Booking: High Life Highland Activities
Contact: [email protected] 01847 821531 or 07920182658
Date: Wednesday 4th December
Area: Ardnamurchan
A Short Walk into Nature – Strontian
Join this local green health walk and help reconnect with the natural world. Enjoy some leisurely exercise, friendly company, great views, and fresh air. Following a different theme each week, find out a bit more about the nature on your doorstep. All our ‘short walks into nature’ series are flat, under an hour in length and suitable for all abilities and levels of fitness. Please disclose to your local ranger any medical or additional support needs you may have prior to the walk.
Time: 11am – 12pm
We make no charge for this event but we rely on your donations to help us protect our Highland wildlife and heritage.
Booking: Call or email to book
Contact: [email protected]
Date: Thursday 5th December
Area: online
Online Talk: How is climate affecting our Birds in the Highlands of Scotland.
The Highlands have a unique assemblage of birds and Andy will explore what the future may hold for some of our iconic species in a changing world
Time: 7.30pm – 9pm
We ask for donations to help with our work, which goes towards education about and protection of the nature of the Highlands. Please donate what you can afford.
Booking: Click here to book
Contact: [email protected] Tel:07825 116516
Date: Thursday 5th December
Area: Lochaber
Christmas Wreaths – Share some You Time
Want to try something new while giving yourself some You Time, come along and join the Highland Heritage Ranger on this relaxed workshop where we create Christmas wreaths from willow and natural vegetation
This 2-hour workshop is part of the monthly You Time traditional craft series where you can try new crafts and learn new skills in an informal, relaxed setting over a cup of tea and biscuits.
Tea, coffee, and biscuits are provided along with full tuition and equipment.
Time: 1pm – 3pm or 5.30pm – 7.30pm :
Cost: Free for full HLH Members, £6 for pay as you go members
Booking: Details coming soon!
Contact: [email protected]
Date: Sunday 8th December
Area: Ardnamurchan
Volunteer Day – Sunart Footpaths
Join Ranger Eilidh-Ann and Sunart Community Company on this regular volunteer session. This month we will be making improvements in Strontian Community Woodland so please bring gloves, loppers, hand saws and spades. No need to book – this is a drop-in activity.
Time: 1pm – 4pm.
We make no charge for this event but we rely on your donations to help us protect our Highland wildlife and heritage.
Contact: [email protected]
Date: Wednesday 11th December
Area: Wester Ross
Guided Walk to the Fairy Lochs, Badachro near Gairloch
This 6km circular walk takes in mountain views and a World War 2 plane crash site. We will be looking for wildlife and nature as we go and having a picnic at the lochs.
Please book your place by visiting our Eventbrite page (link below)
This sessions price has been set to FREE. We ask for donations to help with our work, which goes towards education about and protection of the nature of the Highlands. Please give what you feel you can afford. Booking is required. Suggested donation for this event is £5 per person or £10 to further support our work.
Time: 11am – 2pm
Booking: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/high-life-highland-countryside-rangers-33097164665
Contact: [email protected] M: 07917307499
Date: Tuesday 17th December
Area: Wester Ross
Ullapool Nature Tots for Pre-schoolers – Reindeers and Robins, Ullapool Library
Nature Tots is aimed at children under 5 and their carers. It includes nature stories and activities. This month our topic is all about Christmassy animals. This is (hopefully) part inside and part outside so please come prepared for going out.
Booking is not required, just turn up. This event’s price has been set to FREE. We ask for donations to help with our work, which goes towards education about and protection of the nature of the Highlands. Please only donate what you can afford. Suggested donation is £2.50. Donations can be made in cash or using a QR code at the event.
Time: 10.30am – 11.30am
Booking: Not required
Contact: [email protected] M: 07917307499
Date: Wednesday 18th December
Area: Ardnamurchan
A Short Walk into Nature – Strontian
Join this local green health walk and help reconnect with the natural world. Enjoy some leisurely exercise, friendly company, great views, and fresh air. Following a different theme each week, find out a bit more about the nature on your doorstep. All our ‘short walks into nature’ series are flat, under an hour in length and suitable for all abilities and levels of fitness. Please disclose to your local ranger any medical or additional support needs you may have prior to the walk.
Time: 11am – 12pm
We make no charge for this event but we rely on your donations to help us protect our Highland wildlife and heritage.
Booking: Call or email to book
Contact: [email protected]
Date: Thursday 19th December
Area: Wester Ross
Ullapool Nature Club for Kids, Christmas Presents for Wildlife, Ullapool Library
Nature Club is a gathering in our community library to celebrate and experience nature. It is open to all children but aimed at primary school age.
This month, we are thinking about the animals living through the cold winter and making some gifts for them. We will be making bird feeders and more.
Children 5 and over can stay without parents and younger children can attend with parents or carers.
Booking is not required, just turn up. This event’s price has been set to FREE. We ask for donations to help with our work, which goes towards education about and protection of the nature of the Highlands. Suggested donation is £2.50 per child. Please only donate what you can afford, £2.50 is a guide only. Parents are welcome to stay and participate.
Time: 6pm – 7.15pm
Booking: not required
Contact: [email protected] M: 07917307499
Date: Thursday 19th December
Area: Caithness
Crosskirk to Scrabster Harbour Festive Walk
To prepare you for the Festive excesses, join the countryside ranger on our annual bracing 11.2km guided walk, from Crosskirk to Scrabster Harbour in Caithness. Wrap up well and enjoy the sights and sounds of a winter coastal walk, with a mince pie and some good company. Some rough ground to cover so suitable walking gear and a reasonable level of fitness is required. Dogs are not welcome along. Help with return vehicles is required. Over 18years only. There is no charge but a kind donation on the day is very welcome. Booking is essential.
Time: 10am – 3.30pm Booking ref: ACT002275
We make no charge for this event but we rely on your donations to help us protect our Highland wildlife and heritage.
Booking: High Life Highland Activities
Contact: [email protected]
Date: Thursday 23rd January
Area: online
Online Talk: Beachcombers guide to the strange finds on the beaches of the northwest Highlands.
From stranded whales and sea turtles to mermaids purses and by-the-wind sailors. Beachcombing is a fascinating and soothing mindful activity that involves exploring the shoreline in search of treasure such as driftwood, fossils, sea creatures, interesting pebbles, sea glass, animal footprints and seaweeds.
Time: 7.30pm – 9pm
We ask for donations to help with our work, which goes towards education about and protection of the nature of the Highlands. Please donate what you can afford.
Booking: Click here to book
Contact: [email protected] Tel:07825 116516
