Castle Espie news
Make the Most of Summer -Whatever the Weather at Castle Espie
We all dream of sunny summer days... but let’s be honest, the weather doesn’t always stick to the plan. At WWT Castle Espie, the great outdoors is ready to be explored come rain or shine. Whether it’s blazing sunshine or a passing downpour, summe
30 July 2025
Inspiring Textiles Project unveils stunning art installation at Castle Espie
Weaving mental health, wellbeing and nature: Inspiring Textiles Project unveils stunning art installation at WWT Castle EspieNewtownards-based social enterprise Inspiring Yarns is celebrating the successful completion of its 18-month heritage project Insp
29 July 2025
Explore the magical world of the Dragonfly Festival at Castle Espie this summer
This summer get ready to explore activities that celebrate the wonderful world of dragonflies at Castle Espie, the charity for wetlands and wildlife, at the first Dragonfly Festival. From 21 June to 22 September, festival goers are invited to let their im
17 June 2025
International Saltmarsh Day Shines Light on Crucial Coastal Habitats
SaltmarshesSaltmarshes form in coastal areas where layers of mud and silt are shaped by the tides. These unique habitats only develop in places which are sheltered from strong waves, allowing sediments to settle and plants to take root. The lowest parts o
10 June 2025
Tree Bumblebee at Castle Espie: A Sign of Changing Times
A relatively recent addition to our bumblebee fauna at Castle Espie has been the Tree Bumblebee. It seems its expansion north has been driven by climate change and is steadily colonising the country. First discovered in County Antrim 10 years ago, this di
28 May 2025
WWT Castle Espie partners with Aardman to launch Lloyd of the Flies Wetland Bug Hunt
Families in Northern Ireland can enjoy a brand new Lloyd of the Flies Wetland Bug Hunt at WWT Castle Espie (5th April – 1st June) as WWT partners with animation studio Aardman and the Royal Entomological Society. The Lloyd of the Flies Wetland Bug Hu
5 April 2025
Honoring Paddy Mackie: A Legacy of Conservation and Community
We are deeply saddened by the passing of our dear friend and Castle Espie founder, Paddy Mackie, who left us peacefully last week.The end of an era, indeed. For many in Belfast, Mackie’s Engineering was more than just a name—it was a place where many
11 March 2025
Seriously squelchy fun awaits families at Mudfest 2025 this February half-term
Grab your wellies and head to WWT Castle Espie this February half term, 8-16 February for Mudfest 2025. NEW this year, Mudfest is nine days of mud-themed activities, guaranteed to entertain the whole family, as well as help visitors discover the superp
30 January 2025
Get lost in your own wetland adventure at WWT Castle Espie this World Wetlands Day
Claim your free ticket to explore our wetlands!
29 January 2025
A Tribute to the Wishing Tree
Storm Eowyn has left its mark, and sadly, our beloved Wishing Tree—a centrepiece of our site, a symbol of wonder, and the heart of many traditions—has suffered greatly. This gnarled and charismatic old friend has stood through countless seasons, in
28 January 2025
Top 5 things to do this Christmas at WWT Castle Espie
Christmas is right around the corner and it’s truly a magical time to visit Castle Espie. Whether you’re making precious family memories with a visit to Santa Claus, or swapping the hustle and bustle for a calm and cosy bird hide, we have something
29 November 2024
October Half Term Promises a Week of Super Natural Activities at WWT Castle Espie
Families can tap into the magic that’s all around them at WWT Castle Espie this October half term, where wand making and spell casting are just a few of the mystical activities that will keep curious minds bewitched. Running from 26-31 October, the e
17 October 2024
Unique Brent goose sculpture unveiled as a tribute to inspiring Castle Espie volunteer
A stunning new sculpture of a Light-bellied Brent Goose called ‘The Spirit of Strangford Lough’ has been unveiled at WWT Castle Espie. Developed in collaboration with WWT Castle Espie and Ulster Folk Museum in Cultra, the sculpture will not only welc
4 October 2024
Free Pre-Bookable Event Buses for the Shorelife Celebration!
The brand new Shorelife Celebration will provide a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the breathtaking beauty of our shoreline at the stunning WWT Castle Espie and National Trust Mount Stewart on Saturday 5 October. Admission to both venues is free (for both
18 September 2024
Dive into Autumn with the Shorelife Celebration!
Step into Autumn and immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of our shoreline at the brand-new Shorelife Celebration! Join us on Saturday 5 October at the stunning WWT Castle Espie and National Trust Mount Stewart. With free admission to both venues a
6 September 2024