Local Pet & Wildlife Events You Shouldn’t Miss
Whether you're a pet parent, a nature enthusiast, or simply looking for something fun and meaningful to do this season, Swindon and Wiltshire have a fantastic line up of events that celebrate animals, wildlife, and the great outdoors. Here are some of the top picks happening between October and December 2025. Perfect for families, animal lovers, and anyone who enjoys connecting with nature!
🐦 Bird Ringing at Blakehill Farm
📅 Sunday 5 October 2025 | 🕗 8:30am – 11:30am
📍 Blakehill Farm, Cricklade, Wiltshire
Join Simon Tucker and the Swindon Wildlife Group for a fascinating morning of bird ringing. Get up close with a variety of birds and learn about their migration and conservation. A great educational experience for all ages.
🎨 Autumn Botanical Painting Workshop
📅 Wednesday 8 October 2025 | 🕙 10:00am – 3:00pm
📍 Langford Lakes, Salisbury
Led by artist Sally Pond, this workshop blends art and nature. While not strictly pet-related, it’s a wonderful opportunity for animal lovers to explore seasonal flora and develop watercolor skills (and it’s perfect inspiration for pet portrait artists!)
🐾 Animals in Autumn – Family Wildlife Walk
📅 Thursday 30 October 2025 | 🕙 10:00am – 12:00pm
📍 Lower Moor Nature Reserve, Oaksey
Explore the changing landscape and discover how local wildlife prepares for winter. Learn to spot animal tracks, identify fungi, and understand seasonal behaviors. Great for kids and families, and a lovely way to connect with nature.
🐦 Cotswold Water Park Birdwatch
📅 Sunday 30 November 2025 | 🕙 10:00am – 1:00pm
📍 Cotswold Water Park, Cirencester
Another gem from the Swindon Wildlife Group, this event offers a peaceful morning of birdwatching in one of the region’s most scenic spots. Bring your binoculars and enjoy the serenity of nature.
🎨 December Botanical Painting Workshop
📅 Wednesday 10 December 2025 | 🕙 10:00am – 3:00pm
📍 Langford Lakes, Salisbury
Celebrate winter’s beauty through art. This seasonal workshop is ideal for creatives and nature lovers and a great way to unwind before the holiday rush.
🌟 Why These Events Matter
These events aren’t just fun, they’re a chance to:
Connect with fellow animal lovers
Learn more about local wildlife and conservation
Find inspiration for your own pet portraits or creative projects
Support community organizations like the Wiltshire Wildlife Trust
🎨 Bonus Tip for Pet Lovers & Artists
Attending nature-focused events can spark new ideas for your pet portraits. Whether it’s the texture of autumn leaves, the colours of migrating birds, or the quiet beauty of a winter landscape, these experiences can enrich your artistic vision and deepen your connection to the animals you paint.
