Dark Waters

Come and experience the nocturnal wildlife of Stanborough Park after dark.

As the sun sets over Stanborough Park, join our team for a guided evening walk along the River Lea to discover the nocturnal wildlife that emerges at dusk around one of our rare chalk rivers. This special walk invites you to step away from the day’s routine and explore the park in a completely different light, or rather, in the fading light of evening.

We’ll use bat detectors and infrared binoculars to gain a unique insight into the hidden world of nocturnal species. Together, we’ll listen for echolocation calls, learn how to identify different bat species, and observe the park as it transitions from day to night.

Along the way, you’ll discover more about local wildlife and their habitats, deepening your connection to the natural environment. Time spent outdoors has been shown to support wellbeing, helping to reduce stress and boost mood, and this welcoming walk offers the perfect opportunity to experience those benefits firsthand.

Whether you’re new to nature activities or already familiar with the park, our team will support everyone at a comfortable pace.

Event details:

• Suitable for families with children aged 7+.
• Approximately 1 mile at a gentle pace, over uneven ground which may be muddy in places.
• Regular stops to observe and learn about nocturnal wildlife.

Herts Rivers Week 2026 is a county-wide celebration of our chalk rivers through events and activities for all ages. It is also a call to action designed to help people understand the value of chalk rivers - and the role we all play in protecting them.