Into the Night: Bat Watching in the Heart of Upper Teesdale
An immersive wildlife experience with a 3-course dinner and guided dusk walk

15th May 2025 | 7pm till late | £55.00 per person

Discover the hidden world of bats in one of England’s most unspoiled landscapes with a unique evening experience set against the dramatic beauty of Upper Teesdale. As dusk settles over this enchanting part of the North Pennines, join local wildlife experts to explore the secret lives of Britain’s only flying mammals.

Begin your evening with a delicious 3-course meal in a charming countryside setting. After dinner, enjoy a relaxed and engaging talk introducing you to the fascinating world of bats—from their extraordinary flying abilities to the remarkable way they navigate using echolocation.

You’ll learn about the bats of County Durham—the species present, their ecology, and how bat detectors can be used to identify them and understand their behaviour. Then, as night falls, head out on a short guided walk to High Force Waterfall. With expert guidance and the use of detectors provided by Durham Bat Group, you’ll have the opportunity to hear and (hopefully) see these elusive creatures in action.

Bring warm clothing and sturdy footwear. Torches are useful in case of emergencies, but for bat watching, it’s best to let your eyes adjust to the dark. Don’t forget insect repellent—bats love insects, but unfortunately, some of them love us too! Long sleeves, trousers, socks, and a hat are strongly recommended.

While we hope for clear weather and plenty of bat activity, bats are wild animals and may not appear in adverse conditions such as strong winds, rain, or dense fog. That said, on a fine night we may observe at least three, possibly five, and if we’re very lucky, up to seven different bat species.

Whether you’re a curious beginner or looking to get involved in local conservation, this evening offers a memorable way to connect with nature and discover one of our most mysterious and misunderstood mammals.

Fascinating Bat Facts

They’re the only mammals that can truly fly!
Bats are the only mammals capable of true flight—unlike flying squirrels, which glide. This makes them unique among more than 6,000 mammal species.

Not all bats hang upside down!
While most bats do roost upside down, some species have evolved differently. Around six species use suction pads to cling to leaves or smooth surfaces instead.

Bats can “see” with sound.
Though bats can see, they rely heavily on echolocation to navigate in the dark. They emit high-pitched sounds that bounce off nearby objects, helping them detect obstacles and prey with remarkable precision.

Did you know?
There are around 1,240 bat species worldwide—making up roughly 20% of all mammals! They are among the most numerous mammals on the planet, alongside rodents like mice and rats.