Springwatch 2026 Moves to Northern Ireland
Springwatch 2026 will be broadcast live from the woodlands and historic ruins of the National Trust's Crom Estate, located on the shores of Lough Erne in County Fermanagh. This marks the first occasion that Northern Ireland will serve as the primary live location for the BBC's Springwatch programme.
Over the course of three weeks, presenters Chris Packham and Michaela Strachan will deliver the latest wildlife updates from Crom Estate, alongside a variety of seasonal stories from across the United Kingdom.
Earlier this year, in January, Mount Stewart on the shores of Strangford Lough hosted Winterwatch for the first time. Additionally, last year, to commemorate the 20th anniversary of Springwatch, presenter Lolo Williams undertook a three-week nature trek throughout Northern Ireland.
This will be the inaugural instance of the main Springwatch hub being based in Northern Ireland. The three-week series aims to celebrate the natural world, broadcasting from one of the regions known for its rich and diverse wildlife.
'Wildlife Writes the Script'
Presenter Michaela Strachan expressed her enthusiasm about broadcasting live from Northern Ireland.
"We never quite know what species will become our stars each year or what stories will emerge," she said.
"That's what I love about Springwatch, the wildlife writes the script and every year there's a chapter we weren't expecting."
"I can't wait to see what plots Crom has in store for us. I'm hoping it hasn't planned for too much rain in the script."
Local Perspectives and Biodiversity
Gemma Carson, general manager at National Trust Crom, conveyed her delight at the opportunity to bring viewers into the heart of the Fermanagh landscape.
"Wildlife is woven into every part of Crom, with red squirrels and pine martens in the canopy, fallow deer grazing the parkland, and otters along the water's edge," she said.
"In spring, the meadows come alive with butterflies, bees and dragonflies, making it one of the most vibrant and biodiverse places in Northern Ireland."
Carson also expressed hope that the series will inspire people to develop a deeper connection with nature.
Mary McKeagney, commissioning editor for BBC Northern Ireland, described the announcement as "exciting."
"This will allow audiences right across the UK to enjoy this jewel in our natural landscape in stunning County Fermanagh. And also to remind some of us here at home what a wonderful biodiverse place we have right on our doorstep."
Production Details
Springwatch 2026 is a co-commission between BBC Specialist Factual and BBC Northern Ireland, produced by the BBC Studios Natural History Unit. Full transmission details for this year's Springwatch will be announced in due course.
