Already established as a popular January mood-enhancing event, ‘Winter Woodland Lights’ owl flying displays at the Hawk Conservancy Trust are being reimagined for their fifth year and promise to be the UK’s most immersive illuminated wildlife experience.
Organisers at the bird of prey visitor centre near Andover, Hampshire, are busy building on the popularity of past years to create an even more stunning spectacle in the heart of nature. There will be new special sound, light and even dramatic weather effects ensuring the 13-night run of displays is unlike any other winter illuminations experience.
“We’re combining low-flying owl encounters, beautifully-lit woodland, atmospheric music, storytelling and special effects like never before,” said Tom Morath, Deputy Head of Living Collection for the Hawk Conservancy Trust and creative lead for the Winter Woodland Lights event. “The whole team, including our cast of stunning owls is coming together to create a memorable experience that we hope will deepen the appreciation of the natural world in return for warming hearts and brightening moods in the midst of winter darkness.”
Ticket sales for the event generate vital income for the Trust’s conservation and research work as a bird of prey charity, running and assisting with numerous projects across the UK and overseas. These can range from population monitoring and support for various UK species to conserving vultures facing extinction in Africa.
As a result, anyone booking a visit to Winter Woodland Lights is benefitting the natural world as well as giving themselves a mid-winter treat. Many also choose to share the experience by booking tickets as a Christmas gifts. Available dates run from Friday 16 January to Sunday 1 February 2026 and can be booked online at www.hawk-conservancy.org or by calling 01264 773850.