About the event

Yockletts Bank and Park Gate Down are must-visit reserves for orchid fans, given spectacular colour in the early summer by an abundance of these special plants.

Join the East Kent Downs warden to visit both ancient woodland and ancient chalk downland, and discover why these reserves are such important habitats for orchids. You'll also learn about the life-cycle of orchids, and see species including Lady orchids, Monkey orchids, Greater Butterfly orchids and Fly orchids.

This safari will start at Yockletts Bank, and you'll need to make a 15 minute drive to Park Gate Down before meeting the warden again for the second part of the event.

Parking is limited at both sites, so the capacity is dependent on the number of vehicles being used by attendees. Please ensure you book as many free parking tickets as you require along with your safari ticket(s).

This safari is aimed at an adult audience, 14-17 year olds may attend with an accompanying adult over 18. Hoping to bring the children? Family Wildlife Watch Safaris are available during school holidays, see https://www.kentwildlifetrust.org.uk/safaris for availability.

This safari will last approximately 3 hours and will require you to make a 15 minute drive between the sites of Yorkletts and Park Gate. Most of the time will be spent walking or standing. Much of the route follows surfaced paths, but these can be muddy. Ensure you wear sturdy footwear (during periods of wet weather waterproof footwear is advisable) and clothing suitable for the weather conditions.

Please note there are no toilet facilities at the reserves, and no refreshments are available to purchase on site. You are welcome to bring your own food and drink with you, a bottle of water is recommended.

For information about other Wilder Kent Safari experiences please visit https://www.kentwildlifetrust.org.uk/safaris.