The Joys of Winter on the Heath
Hampstead Heath has been particularly festive lately, with berries on the Holly trees and the Mistletoe in the Old Orchard Garden, Robins following our hardy conservation volunteers, frosty mornings and, of course, snow!
Parliament Hill has always been a popular spot for sledging and tobogganing, and this year was no exception. Several snowmen have also popped up, including some particularly creative figures. The Heath offers a winter wonderland for all to enjoy, and a great snowy space for those without gardens.
One of our favourite activities of the season are our annual wreath-making workshops. Many people have joined us to make their own fantastic ’Heath Wreaths’ using greenery gathered from the Heath, including volunteers, schoolchildren, community groups and other locals. Festive wreaths have a long tradition, originally dating back to the 16th century as a way to use the offcuts of Christmas trees, though we opt for Yew, Holly and Ivy which are plentiful on the Heath.
This Saturday 17th December, we will also be running a festive family afternoon with crafts, nature facts, outdoor games and more. Find out more and book here. Our partners at the City of London and English Heritage are also hosting festive events, with a Christmas Fayre at East Heath and the ‘Christmas at Kenwood’ light show.
If you prefer to simply enjoy what nature has to offer, winter is a great time for spotting birds in the bare branches. You might see a flock of migrant Redwings feasting on berries, or a winter gathering of beautiful Mandarin Ducks in bankside branches, with the males in bright Christmas cracker colours! They are joined by winter waterfowl on the ponds, including long-billed Shovelers and delicate grey Gadwalls. Meanwhile, Robins, Wrens and Song Thrushes are amongst the few birds singing in winter, punctuating the crisp cold air. You may even find some nests revealed by the falling leaves. Also keep your eyes peeled for animal tracks in the frost and snow.
If you’d like to support our wildlife this winter, do consider adopting a wildlife home - this makes a great last-minute gift for loved ones. Or perhaps you or your loved ones would be interested in finding out more about nature on the Heath in 2023 - do join as a Friend of Heath Hands and get our regular newsletters, as well as free spaces at our walks, talks and other events.
Mandarin Ducks © Oliver Schultz
Whether you’re revelling in a flashy, festive spectacle or relishing quiet morning walks across the frosty Heath, we wish you joy with whatever you choose to do this holiday season.
Kenwood’s Lime Avenue in the snow
