Feathered Fun at Four Seasons Hotel Hampshire

Originating in the 18th century, birdwatching began as a recreational activity for aristocrats, but now in an age of sustainability, it has become a popular form of ecotourism and a hobby enjoyed by millions of people around the world.

Four Seasons Hotel Hampshire, with its beautiful 500 acre (200 hectare) estate, has attracted the growing attention of professional and amateur birdwatchers alike.  

To offer guests a fun and sustainable way to discover wild birds in their natural habitats, Four Seasons Hotel Hampshire has joined forces with world renowned optik creators Swarovski Optik. Celebrating their 70th anniversary this year, the company first started producing binoculars in 1949.  Specifically selected for birdwatching, guests will be issued with a set of Swarovski Optik CL Companion binoculars. With impressive optics the compact binoculars fit perfectly in the palm of one's hand, ready to be greeted by an array of colourful wild birds.

Guided by ornitholgists Keith Betton or John Clark, the walks will begin at the Hotel’s historic Manor House, dating back to 1728, before venturing around the luscious landscape and will take a total of approximately two hours, depending on the guests’ preferences. Carefully chosen by the Hotel, both Keith and John have a detailed knowledge not only of birds but also the local area.  

Living in Hampshire all his life, John has published a number of renowned bird titles, including Birds of the Hants/Surrey Border and the Hampshire Bird Report, before becoming a County Bird Recorder, an office he held until 2009. He is currently working on a new edition of Birds of Hampshire and has now seen almost 8,500 species around the world.

Equally passionate, Keith is a keen world birder, having seen more than 8,000 species in more than 100 countries. He has been a Council Member of both the RSPB and the BTO (British Trust for Ornithology)  and is currently Vice President of the latter.

Using their vast knowledge and experience, both Keith and John hope to offer something that will appeal to everyone from keen ornthaogists to those just wanting to learn more about our feathered friends.

The new bird walks will add to the Hotel’s already wide variety of activities on offer to guests including  fishing, croquet, tennis, clay pigeon shooting, falconry, cycling and a Highwire Adventure. Top-notch golf is a stone’s throw away while guests can also explore the Basingstoke Canal bordering the estate grounds on the Hotel’s barge. The estate’s original 18th century stable block is home to a luxurious spa, a 20 metre (65 foot) indoor conservatory swimming pool, an outdoor vitality pool and the Hotel’s new family adventure pool, Sharkie’s Reef.

Prices from GBP 150 for groups up to five people – booking essential – contact 01252 853000.