The Starling Murmuration at Ham Wall, a Somerset Winter Spectacle
Posted November 19, 2025Every winter, thousands gather on the edge of Glastonbury to witness a natural phenomenon like no other. At Ham Wall, starlings rise in vast, shifting clouds above the marshes before settling into the reeds for the night, a sight that feels ancient, eerie and astonishing every single time.
A Winter Ritual on the Somerset Levels
There’s a moment, just before the starlings arrive, when the whole of Ham Wall seems to hold its breath.
We’d reached the reserve around 3pm, Poppy, James and I. After parking what felt like a mile or two down the road. The official car park had already overflowed, a sure sign that we weren’t the only ones drawn out into the cold for this nightly December ritual. The path towards the marshes was thick with quiet anticipation. People don’t really chatter here; they wait.
Waiting for the First Wave
The light had dipped into that winter half-glow, gold slipping into blue, and the air felt sharp enough to wake your senses. Swans moved slowly across the pools, herons tucked themselves deep into the reeds, and the distant rustle of wings hinted that the marsh was preparing for something.
And then: the first wave.
When the Sky Turns Black
A dark cloud lifted on the horizon, then another. Tens of thousands of starlings appeared at once, pouring over the landscape like smoke. It’s a dramatic sight, even the noise is a little overwhelming. The groups merge and split, twist and fold, sweeping low across the reed beds before spiralling back into the air. The sound is something you feel as much as hear: a deep whooshing rush, both powerful and strangely soothing.
Patterns, Movement, and That Sudden Silence
For a few minutes, it’s pure movement, patterns forming and dissolving, shapes emerging from nowhere. And then, almost suddenly, they drop. One final swoop, a coordinated descent, and the whole sky falls quiet as they settle into the reeds for the night. The silence afterwards is striking.
It’s magical. Eerie. Emotional. All of it.
And every time, you’re left with that same childlike feeling: How is this real?
Little things you shouldn’t miss
- The other birdlife is a joy in itself — swans, marsh harriers, herons and flashes of movement across the open water.
- You can walk/bus to the marshes from Glastonbury if you prefer to leave the car behind, but bring a torch!
- Avalon Marshes Centre (just up the road) is worth arriving early for, with its museum (open Sundays), friendly volunteers, the Sweet Track, and a cosy café perfect for warming up.
- There’s even a Starling Hotline run by the RSPB, giving you updates on where the birds are roosting each night, incredibly helpful when they shift between sites. Starling Hotline on 07866 554142
Planning Your Visit
Best time: Winter, especially December through February. Arrive at least an hour before sunset or sunrise.
Parking: Use the official Ham Wall car park if you can (and arrive early). You can park on the road, but it’s narrow, and tractors and 4x4s also need the route. SatNav BA6 9SX.
What to bring:
- Warm layers
- Binoculars
- Sturdy shoes — the paths can be muddy
- Extra socks (you’ll likely be standing still for a while)
- Patience — and quiet, so others can enjoy the moment too
Dogs
- Dogs are only allowed on leads along the main path from the Ham Wall car park and the public footpath on the opposite side of the waterway (the Ham Wall loop).
- Dogs are not permitted on the main area of Shapwick Heath.
- There are no dog waste or litter bins, so please take your waste home.
- Registered assistance dogs are allowed in all areas.
Make a Day of It in Glastonbury
Pair the murmuration with a winter wander around Glastonbury:
- Glastonbury Abbey calm, atmospheric and perfect for a chilly afternoon
- Climb the Tor for views across the Levels
- Lunch options:
- Avalon Marshes Centre Café
- Fara (Glastonbury High St)
- The Queen of Cups (a stunning choice if you want something special)
Then head to Ham Wall as the light begins to fade.