Join Us for an Unforgettable Birding Experience!
25 April 2025
Bird enthusiasts, nature lovers, and rarity seekers - mark your calendars! Migfest 2025 is officially set to take place from 12th to 14th September 2025, at Kilnsea, Spurn, East Yorkshire, and tickets are now on sale! This year’s festival promises an exciting lineup of presentations, workshops, guided birding, bird ringing demonstrations, great food and celebrating the wonders of migration!
We are pleased to announce our keynote speakers for Migfest 2025: renowned ornithologist, Richard Crossley and acclaimed conservationist, naturalist, and author Nick Acheson.
Richard Crossley is well-known for his groundbreaking work in bird identification and field guide production. With a rich background in ornithology and a passion for engaging the public, Richard's unique approach combines stunning visuals and practical knowledge, making the avian world accessible to everyone. His acclaimed books and innovative methodologies have transformed how we understand and appreciate birdwatching. Find out more on Friday evening.
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Joining him the following evening will be Nick Acheson, a celebrated birdwatcher and author behind the popular blog "The Marsh Tit”. Nick brings a wealth of experience from his extensive travels and fieldwork, sharing captivating stories from the wild combined with migration stories that every bird enthusiast will appreciate. His dedication to fostering a love for nature and conservation shines through in his engaging presentations.
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There will be the usual array of events, from interactive workshops tailored for both novice birdwatchers and seasoned professionals, guided walks led by experts across a diverse habitats, networking opportunities with fellow bird lovers and conservationists, stalls featuring birding gear, local crafts, artwork and more! There is a raffle, a quiz, a BBQ, camping on-site, and even nocturnal wildlife walks!
Whether you’re a seasoned birdwatcher or just starting your journey into the world of birding, Migfest 2025 offers something for everyone. There will be walks for lone travelers and those new to Migfest, and dedicated Visible Migration and Seawatching stations for beginners.
“Young birders will once again be a key focus at MigFest, with loads of opportunities for young people to get involved. From youth-led walks and the BTO Youth stand to the ‘Capture a Moment’ competition, it’s all about creating space for young voices and celebrating their passion for birds. We’re also really excited to host the Martin Garner Spurn Young Birder (MGSYB) Competition, which is now open for applications - it’s a brilliant opportunity for young people to showcase their skills and enthusiasm in a friendly, supportive setting.” Jo Goodfellow, BTO Youth Engagement Manager
There is something for everyone - regardless of bird knowledge - so don’t miss the chance to connect with leading experts, immerse yourself in nature, meet like-minded people, and deepen your appreciation for the journeys our feathered friends make.
Secure your spot today by visiting our official website [https://spurnbirdobservatory.co.uk/migfest] and purchasing tickets. Tickets for under 18s need to be ordered by emailing info@spurnmigfest.com, but they are free!
Join us at Migfest 2025, where each ticket purchased contributes to bird conservation and monitoring efforts by BTO and Spurn Bird Observatory, and helps make a difference in protecting our migratory species on the ground in land owned by the observatory. Together, let’s celebrate the migration and the beauty of our natural world.
Migfest is the brainchild of two Spurn stalwarts, Martin Garner and Andy Roadhouse, the festival has become one of the most popular events on the birding calendar. From its humble beginnings in 2013, the Spurn Migration Festival has continued to grow year on year.
If you are over 18 and interested in being part of the army of volunteers who work tirelessly over the weekend to deliver this event, please contact Observatory Manager, Robbie Hunton, at info@spurnbirdobservatory.co.uk. You don’t have to be a bird expert to help, there is lots to do - from helping on the welcome desk, guided walks, catering, through to workshops, engaging with and signposting guests, and car parking duties!
