How to Spot Local Wildlife While Staying at Waterside

Both our holiday parks in Dorset and Cornwall are surrounded by stunning countryside, rich woodlands, and coastal habitats, making them ideal bases for wildlife spotting. Whether you’re a seasoned nature lover or just looking for a relaxing family walk, here’s how you can spot some of the UK’s most fascinating creatures during your stay at Waterside.

From the clifftops near Bowleaze Cove and Chesil Beach to the sheltered bays around Osmington Mills, the Dorset coast is a haven for seabirds. Look out for gulls, terns, and even the occasional kestrel hovering above the cliffs. If you’re lucky, you may spot a pod of dolphins or seals basking offshore. Cornwall offers equally magical sightings - near Tregoad Holiday Park you’ll find puffins, guillemots, and grey seals along the Looe coastline.

Head inland and you’ll discover lush woodlands and hedgerows teeming with life. The forests around Tregoad Holiday Park in Cornwall are perfect for spotting red squirrels, woodpeckers, and owls. In Dorset, countryside walks can reward you with sightings of deer grazing in meadows, badger tracks on forest trails, or butterflies fluttering between wildflowers in summer.

For younger explorers, rockpooling is an adventure in itself. The shores near Bowleaze Cove and Chesil are brilliant for uncovering crabs, starfish, and small fish at low tide. It’s a fun and educational way for children to connect with the local environment, while learning about marine ecosystems first-hand.

• Take it slow - wildlife spotting is about patience and quiet observation.
• Bring binoculars - ideal for birdwatching and coastal sightings.
• Go early or late - dawn and dusk are the best times to see animals at their most active.
• Stay respectful - keep a safe distance and leave habitats undisturbed.

Whether you’re staying in a family-friendly lodge in Dorset or a dog-friendly cottage in Cornwall, there’s always an opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors. At Waterside, you’re never far from a scenic walk, coastal trail, or woodland adventure where wildlife is waiting to be discovered.

Reconnect with nature and make unforgettable memories at one of our parks in Dorset or Cornwall. Explore our range of holiday homes and lodges today, and start planning your wildlife-inspired getaway with Waterside.