Winterwatch 2026: BBC Series Moves to New Northern Ireland Base

LONDON, 20 January 2026 – The BBC’s beloved wildlife series Winterwatch returns to our screens this week, embarking on an exciting new chapter. For its 2026 edition, the programme will broadcast live for the first time from the National Trust’s Mount Stewart estate on the shores of Strangford Lough in County Down, Northern Ireland. Presenters Chris Packham, Michaela Strachan and Iolo Williams will guide viewers through four nights of live broadcasts, showcasing the resilience and beauty of UK wildlife during the coldest season.

A New Home on the Shores of Strangford Lough

After two years based at RSPB Arne in Dorset, Winterwatch is heading north. The 2026 series will use the stunning Mount Stewart estate as its main live base. The location offers a rich tapestry of habitats, including ancient woodlands, ghost ponds, farmland fields, hedgerows, and the UK’s largest tidal sea lough, which is scattered with green islands. This diversity promises a wealth of wildlife-spotting opportunities for the crew and viewers alike. Jack Bootle, BBC Head of Commissioning for Specialist Factual, described Mount Stewart as “beautiful and teeming with wildlife,” making it the “perfect location for Winterwatch.”

Broadcast Details and Presenters

The 2026 series will air on BBC Two and BBC iPlayer across four consecutive nights from Tuesday 20 January to Friday 23 January at 7pm. Each episode will be available on iPlayer shortly after broadcast. The familiar presenting trio of Chris Packham, Michaela Strachan and Iolo Williams return, bringing their expertise and passion to the new location. The series is co-commissioned by BBC Specialist Factual and BBC Northern Ireland.

What Wildlife to Expect

With the crew’s network of remote live cameras, viewers can hope to see a range of winter wildlife from across the UK. At Mount Stewart, the team will be on the lookout for red squirrels, pine martens, and badgers venturing into the wintery woodland. The estate’s abundance of seeds and berries attracts large flocks of songbirds, including linnet, goldfinch, and redwing. Strangford Lough itself is famous for its wintering waterfowl, with vast numbers of ducks and geese likely to feature prominently. The series will also include pre-filmed reports from other locations across the UK, capturing the broader story of how British wildlife adapts to winter.

Key Facts: Winterwatch 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

Where was Winterwatch filmed previously?

The 2025 series of Winterwatch was broadcast from RSPB Arne in Dorset, concluding a two-year contract the BBC had with the reserve. The 2026 series marks a significant move to a new home in Northern Ireland.

Can I visit the Winterwatch filming location?

Yes. The National Trust’s Mount Stewart estate in County Down is open to the public. Visitors can explore the historic house, gardens, and the wider estate, which includes the shores of Strangford Lough—a Marine Nature Reserve teeming with wildlife.

What is the main focus of Winterwatch?

Winterwatch aims to dispel the myth that winter is a dormant season for wildlife. The programme uses live cameras and expert reports to reveal the dramatic challenges, fascinating behaviours, and surprising activity of British animals and birds as they survive and thrive through the winter months.