Join us at Broadlees Bottom in Dover for an evening of bat ecology led by Claire Munn from South East Ecology. This event offers a unique opportunity to learn about the bat species that live in and around Dover, including how they hunt, navigate, and interact with their environment.

What you’ll be doing

• Hear from bat expert Claire Munn about local bat ecology
• Use bat detectors to monitor live bat activity
• Observe bats in their natural habitat at dusk
• Ask questions and engage with local conservation efforts

What to expect

• A relaxed, informative session suitable for all levels of interest
• A chance to experience wildlife up close in a historically rich setting
• The dramatic backdrop of Dover Castle’s eastern defences

Location

Broadlees Bottom, Broadlees Car Park, Upper Road, Dover, CT16 1HU

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Accessibility

The event will be led with accessibility needs in mind. One group will stay in the car park area to watch and listen to the bats that fly around the edges of the woodland – if you would prefer to stay in this group, please bring a comfortable chair and anything else you may need to stay cosy. Snacks are encouraged! 

A second group will go for a gentle, slow and short walk on paths suitable for wheelchairs and other walking aids along two of the main paths in the woodland. There is some bench seating at the Bleriot Memorial, but otherwise people in this group without walking aids should expect to be largely standing or slowly walking. You will need to bring a torch for safe movement through the site.

If you have specific accessibility needs, please let us know and we will do our very best to accommodate this.

Who can attend

Everyone is welcome – families, individuals, and groups of all ages. No prior knowledge of bats or ecology is required.

All under 18s must be accompanied by an adult.

What to bring

• Warm layers for the evening
• A torch
• Suitable footwear
• Curiosity and enthusiasm!

Reaching Greater Heights

This event is part of the Reaching Greater Heights project, made possible with support from the National Lottery Heritage Fund. Thanks to National Lottery players, we’re able to celebrate and protect Dover’s natural heritage through engaging community events like this one.